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Graduation Requirements

Degrees are awarded 3 times a year:

  • November (if you finish your requirements in a summer term)
  • March (if you finish your requirements in a fall term)
  • May (if you finish your requirements in a January session or spring term)

The University-wide Commencement ceremony is held once a year, in May. If you are a November or March graduate, you participate in the following May’s ceremony, after your degree has been awarded.

Graduation confirmation

As you near the completion of the program, you need to complete the graduation confirmation form, which is available through online services. Submit the online form according to the following schedule:

  • For November graduation, by June 1
  • For March graduation, by August 1
  • For May graduation, by November 1

To graduate and participate in May Commencement, you must fulfill all degree requirements and be in good academic standing with no disciplinary or administrative procedures pending. Moreover, you must be in good financial standing with Harvard University with no outstanding tuition bills or fees (a zero balance).

Learn more about available Honors and Prizes.

Degree name

The degrees are awarded by Harvard University.

  • Associate in Arts in Extension Studies
  • Bachelor of Liberal Arts in Extension Studies

On your résumé, the degree may be listed as either of the following:

  • Bachelor of Liberal Arts [Associate in Arts], in Extension Studies, Harvard University.
  • Bachelor of Liberal Arts [Associate in Arts], Harvard University Extension School. Include field of study, minor, and degree honors when applicable.