Graduation: Change of Graduation Date

Policy

Duke undergraduates are expected to complete their degree in eight semesters.  However, some students may wish to shorten or extend their studies at Duke.   

Graduating early

You may choose to graduate one or two semesters early if you can complete curriculum and major requirements in that time.  You may also be able to apply additional AP/IPC/PMC credits toward the 34 credits needed for graduation, with some restrictions.

For more details and information, see Graduating Early.

Graduating in the summer, after your anticipated graduation date

If you have completed 8 fall/spring semesters and wish to extend your studies only through the summer following your anticipated graduation date, you may change your graduation date to September 1 and take additional classes in summer session I and/or II.  You should fill out a Change of Graduation Date Form and submit it to your Academic Dean, who will then change your graduation date.  If you have questions, consult with your Academic Dean.  Alternatively, if you will have completed all curriculum and major requirements in May, you might choose to graduate in May, and then enroll in Duke summer school as a Duke alum; Duke alumni can take summer classes at Duke at a reduced tuition rate.

Form: Change of Graduation Date Form

Graduating in the fall or spring, after your anticipated graduation date

If you have completed 8 fall/spring semesters and wish to extend your studies for a ninth fall or spring semester following your anticipated graduation date, you may request approval for a ninth semester from your academic dean. Your Dean would then change your graduation date to the appropriate time. If you are on financial aid, be sure to consult with your financial aid advisor as funding may not be available for a ninth semester.

For more information and a form, see:  Ninth Semester of Enrollment

Changing graduation dates for other purposes

If you are returning from a period of absence from the university (e.g., a personal or medical leave of absence or withdrawal), you may need to have your graduation date changed. Often this is done at the time of exit from or return to Duke, but if not, you should contact your Academic Dean. 

If you are not able to graduate on time because you still need to complete curriculum or major requirements, you should consult with your Academic Dean. Your Dean can discuss options with you and then change your graduation date. If you are on financial aid, be sure to consult with your financial aid advisor for their policies on continued support.

Form:   Change of Graduation Date Form 

 

See also: