Applying for Graduation

To be awarded a degree or certificate, students should request preparation of a degree audit and file an Apply to Graduate Form after the completion of forty-five (45) semester credit hours toward a specific degree or at least fifteen (15) semester credit hours toward a certificate at the home college of the Alamo Colleges District. All candidates should list the catalog edition under which graduation is requested when completing the Apply to Graduate Form online through the student’s ACES account. One application is required for each degree or certificate requested.

Application Deadlines
  • Fall Semester Mandatory Graduation Advising Deadline:
    • November 15th*
  • Spring Semester Mandatory Graduation Advising Deadline:
    • March 31st* 
  • Summer Semester Mandatory Graduation Advising Deadline:
    • July 15th*

*Dates subject to change

We look forward to seeing you soon! 

How to Apply

Meet with an Advisor
You can apply for graduation during an appointment with your certified academic advisor. This appointment should take place the semester before your final semester at Northwest Vista College.

Options
If you are unable to meet with your certified academic advisor then you can attend one of the following two fall and spring events (depending on which term is your final semester):

  • Spring: March Gradness
  • Fall: GradtoberFest

Advising Appointment Questions

When should I visit with my Academic Advisor for Graduation Advising?

You will want to visit with your Academic Advisor within your last 2 semesters of completing your certificate or degree.

Why meet with your assigned advisor?
  • Process a degree review
  • File the necessary paper work
  • Complete the mandatory graduation application
  • Confirm if you will be attending the commencement ceremony
What should I expect during my graduation advising session?

During your mandatory advising session you will expect to have your certified academic advisor review your Alamo GPS, verify your major and catalog year, complete any necessary forms and paperwork, and complete an application for graduation. 

Why is it mandatory to meet with an academic advisor prior to graduation?

We want to make sure you are on track and on time to graduate with your certificate or degree. We also need to verify that you have satisfied all of your program requirements to be awarded your certificate and or degree earned.

Other Questions You May Have

What are the steps to complete my degree and graduate?

1. Meet with an advisor (determine your goals)
2. Choose a degree
3. Follow your degree plan
4. Apply for graduation (after 45 college-level credit hours are completed)

Do the requirements for a degree ever change?

You will stay on the degree plan and catalog year that you are following. Do not check the latest catalog for the latest degree plan as it may have been updated. Instead follow the degree plan from the year you started as a student or the year you declared your major. If you're unsure, check with your assigned advisor. If you decide to change your major and/or catalog year, you must meet with your assigned advisor to process the change and review the new major and/or catalog year requirements. You have five years to complete the degree plan requirements. Once the five years have passed, you would meet with your assigned advisor to look at a newer catalog year or ask for a catalog extension.

How many college credit hours does it take to earn a degree from NVC?

Approximately 60 college level credit hours.

Which developmental level courses count toward degree completion?

Developmental level courses do not count toward degree completion but are necessary to enroll in college-level classes.

What is the difference between commencement and graduation?

Commencement refers to the ceremony, which is an opportunity for students to celebrate their academic accomplishments with their peers, family and friends. There is no cost for graduation. The diploma, cap and gown are provided by the Alamo Colleges District. Participation in commencement does not guarantee or indicate degree completion.

Graduation is a process consisting of meeting with your certified academic advisor, applying for graduation on paper, updating your diploma name and address in ACES if necessary, along with completing all academic requirements.

Is there a graduation application fee?

No.

What are the requirements to be eligible for graduation?

To be awarded an Associates Degree and/or Certificate please review your appropriate college catalog to learn of your requirements.

Who do I contact if any of the information provided on my application for graduation has changed?

You may contact your assigned advisor or the degree completion team at nvc-graduation@alamo.edu