All students who intend to graduate—regardless of whether they plan to participate in the commencement ceremony—must submit an Application for Graduation to the Records Office by the designated deadline. The form is available in Etrieve and there is no associated fee.
Graduation Application Deadlines and Diploma Pickup Dates
- December 2025 Graduates:
- Graduation Applications must be submitted by Friday October 31, 2025.
- December 2025 graduate diplomas will be available for pick up at the Whitcomb Student Center Welcome Desk starting Wednesday January 21, 2026. Photo ID is required for pick up. All diplomas will be sent to those who requested to have it mailed.
- May 2026 Graduates:
- Graduation Applications must be submitted by Friday March 6, 2026.
- Spring 2026 graduate diplomas will be available for pick up at the Whitcomb Student Center Welcome Desk after the graduation ceremony on May 15, 2026. Photo ID is required for pick up. All diplomas will be sent to those who requested to have it mailed.
- July 2026 Graduates:
- Graduation Applications must be submitted by Friday July 17, 2026.
- Summer 2025 graduate diplomas will be available for pick up at the Whitcomb Student Center Welcome Desk starting on Friday August 1, 2026. Photo ID is required for pick up. All diplomas will be sent to those who requested to have it mailed.
Commencement Ceremony Information
- Ceremony Date: Friday May 15, 2026.
- The ceremony for college transfer degree graduates will take place at 9:00am.
- The ceremony for applied science degree, diploma and certificate graduates will take place at 11:00am.
- Ceremony Location: Robert C. Keys Gymnasium
- What to Wear?
- Professional dress is highly recommended.
- Examples Include:
- A knee-length dress or skirt, suit, or khakis with a button-down shirt and tie
- Dress shoes or formal flats
- Avoid casual footwear like sneakers, sandals, or flip-flops
- Jewelry should be kept to a minimum to maintain a professional appearance
- Colors: Stick to conservative, neutral, or institutional colors when possible.
- Avoid Distractions: Clothing should be respectful of the ceremony, avoiding excessive patterns or overly casual styles.
- Comfort: Since ceremonies may last a while, choose attire that is comfortable but still adheres to formal standards.
- What time should I arrive for the Ceremony? Graduates should arrive 45 minutes prior to the ceremony and report to the Advanced Technologies Building (ADT). Please note that students will not be able to participate if they arrive after the ceremony has started.
- Where should my guests park? Parking for the 9:00am ceremony will be at the Whitcomb Student Center lot located at 484 County Home Road Reidsville NC 27320. Parking for the 11:00am ceremony will be at the Advanced Technology Building (ADT) lot located at 560 County Home Road Reidsville NC 27320.
- Are guests required to have a ticket to attend? Yes, tickets are required for all guests, including children of any age. Graduates are issued 5 guest tickets for the ceremony.
- What if I need extra tickets? Ceremony participants only have 5 tickets. If you need extra, we recommend that you check with classmates to see if they have any extras.
- Is there a graduation rehearsal? No, just make sure you are on time on Commencement Day. Remember, you will need to be there 45 minutes before your ceremony.
- Can I decorate my cap? No, any students with decorated caps will not be allowed to participate in the ceremony.
- How do I get a cap and gown? Visit the RCC Bookstore once you have been cleared by the Records Office.
- What if I need my diploma mailed? Fill out the form here.
