Graduation

Apply for Graduation via BisonHub

Eligible Howard University students may apply for graduation via BisonHub (PDF instructions) at the following times for the 2026 -2027 Academic Year:

  • Fall 2026 Semester - Monday, September 14, 2026 - Friday, November 10, 2026
  • Spring 2027 Semester - Monday, February 8, 2027 to Friday, April 9, 2027
  • Summer 2027 Semester - Tuesday, June 1, 2027 to Friday, July 9, 2027

Applying for Graduation via this method is available for students who will have the requisite number of credits and GPA to graduate.

* NOTE: You cannot apply for graduation without receiving prior approval from your school/college. Students must meet with their advisor as soon as possible to determine their eligibility status.

Have you met all of your academic requirements?

Academic requirements have to be met before you can apply for graduation. Please schedule a meeting with your academic advisor to ensure you have met your requirements. Your advisor will be able to provide you with detailed information on your school/college's clearance process, and determine your eligibility to graduate for the desired graduation semester.

*Please Note: Failure to meet your academic requirements will result in a denial for graduation clearance.

How to apply for Graduation

After confirming with your assigned advisor that all degree requirements have been met, students should complete the graduation application, referred to as 'Apply for Program Completion in BisonHub'.

Application Steps:

  1. Log into BisonHub.
  2. From the Search at the top of the Home page, enter and select "Apply for Program Completion." The task will be displayed.
  3. The Academic Record and Name details will auto-populate. Verify the name listed is your name — the University will reach out at the end of term to confirm legal name and address.
  4. (Optional) Select the checkbox next to RSVP for Commencement to be included in the program for the upcoming Commencement ceremony.
  5. Select the checkbox next to the Program of Study to indicate program completion.
  6. Students applying for Fall 2026 graduation must edit the Expected Completion Date to 12/31/26.
  7. Select the checkbox next to Confirm.
  8. Click Submit, then click Done. The submitted application can be viewed in Archive within My Tasks.
Download Graduation Application Instructions
Manage your Student Record

1. Update your legal name A legal name change requires proof to successfully process.

  • In the BisonHub search bar, type "Change My Legal Name" and select the task.
  • Enter the current date and your requested legal name.
  • Click Select files and upload acceptable proof (driver's license, marriage certificate, updated Social Security card, or other government-issued ID), then choose the category Name Change – Driver's License/Other Doc.
  • Click Submit. You will receive a confirmation pop-up. Your request is routed to the Office of the Registrar or Human Resources for review.

2. Update your diploma address

  • Go to your Student Profile in BisonHub.
  • Click Actions → Personal Data → Change My Home Contact Information.
  • Select the pencil icon next to the address and update the street, city, state, ZIP, and country.
  • If you have multiple addresses, set the correct one's usage to Diploma.
  • Click the checkmark, then Submit.