Who is considered a graduate certificate candidate?
Graduate certificate candidates are JHU School of Education (SOE) students who have completed graduate or post-master certificate program credential requirements. SOE certificate candidates who completed their program of study during the 2025-26 academic year are invited to attend the school’s May 2026 Graduation Ceremony as honorary guests.
How do I register to attend the School of Education graduation ceremony?
SOE certificate candidates who wish to attend the school’s May 19, 2026, graduation ceremony should register on this page starting March 2. This form helps ensure that we have accurate information for the ceremony and can make necessary arrangements. The deadline to complete the form is April 17, 2026. This deadline is firm so that we can begin preparing registration data.
Once you submit a completed online registration form, you will receive a confirmation email and specific instructions for the time and place to report on the event date.
Will my name be read at the graduation ceremony?
SOE graduate certificate candidates will have their names called individually and will be recognized from the VIP section during the May 19 ceremony; they will not walk across the stage. Certificate candidates are invited to sit in the VIP area, which is located adjacent to the main stage.
Will my name be printed in the graduation program?
Yes, graduate certificate program candidates who RSVP by the April 17, 2026, deadline will have their names printed in the SOE graduation program.
Will I need to order and wear academic regalia to attend the graduation ceremony?
Graduate certificate candidates do not wear academic regalia for graduation. Academic regalia is required for doctoral and master’s degree candidates only.
What do I wear to the graduation ceremony?
The appropriate attire for a graduation ceremony guest is typically considered “traditional business attire,” which includes dress pants, a dress shirt, a skirt, and dress shoes. Please avoid wearing blue jeans, shorts, t-shirts with slogans, sneakers, or flip-flops. This dress code is chosen to maintain the event’s formality and show respect for the occasion’s significance.
Why are doctoral and master’s degree candidates permitted to robe and process, but graduate certificate candidates are not?
Doctoral and master’s degree candidates are the only credential holders permitted to robe and process in a graduation ceremony because these degree programs are longer in duration than graduate certificates.
Will I be charged a graduation fee to attend the graduation ceremony?
There is no fee to attend the graduation ceremony.
What are the benefits for graduate certificate candidates to attend the graduation ceremony?
Attending the graduation ceremony can be a meaningful experience for graduate certificate candidates. Benefits for attending include:
- Recognition and celebration of your achievement. This is a special moment to be recognized in front of an audience in celebration of your hard work and dedication along with classmates, family, and friends, and to create a lasting memory of your academic achievement.
- Networking opportunities. The event offers a unique opportunity to connect with your peers and SOE faculty and build your future networking opportunities with the Johns Hopkins Alumni Association.
Will my family or friends be permitted to sit with me in the special reserved seating area during the SOE graduation ceremony?
Friends and family of candidates are invited to sit in the VIP section with you. Please let us know how many guests you are bringing so we can plan accordingly.
What is the difference between the School of Education Graduation Ceremony scheduled for May 19, 2026, and the Johns Hopkins University Commencement exercises planned for May 21, 2026?
The School of Education’s Graduation Ceremony honors the fulfillment of all requisite degree or program criteria within an academic year. The ceremony is held on a weekday evening and includes only graduates from the School of Education.
The Johns Hopkins University Commencement, scheduled for May 21, 2026, is a formal occasion for all JHU schools, including undergraduate and graduate degree and certificate candidates. It signifies the culmination of an academic journey and acknowledges the achievements of all JHU graduates.
Graduate certificate candidates are invited to both events but do not wear regalia, process, or have their names individually read during this ceremony.