Commencement Details

Where Candidates Should Assemble:

Yet to be determined.

Graduating with Distinction, High Distinction, or Highest Distinction

Associate and baccalaureate degree candidates who graduate with highest distinction, high distinction, or distinction are awarded gold, silver, or bronze academic honor cords, respectively. To receive these distinctions, they must meet the following qualifications: Penn State Altoona baccalaureate degree candidates graduating with highest distinction have attained a cumulative grade-point average (GPA) of 4.00; candidates graduating with high distinction have attained a cumulative GPA between 3.93 and 3.99; and candidates graduating with distinction have attained a cumulative GPA between 3.81 and 3.92 (may change).

The College of Engineering confers the degree in Electro-Mechanical Engineering Technology offered at Penn State Altoona. Its baccalaureate degree candidates graduating with highest distinction have attained a GPA of 3.95 or higher; candidates graduating with high distinction have attained a cumulative GPA between 3.87 and 3.94; and candidates graduating with distinction have attained a cumulative GPA between 3.76 and 3.86 (may change).

The School of Nursing confers the degree in Nursing offered at Penn State Altoona. Its baccalaureate degree candidates graduating with highest distinction have attained a GPA of 3.98 or higher; candidates graduating with high distinction have attained a cumulative GPA between 3.92 and 3.97; and candidates graduating with distinction have attained a cumulative GPA between 3.84 and 3.91 (may change).

Throughout The Pennsylvania State University, associate degree candidates graduating with highest distinction have attained a cumulative GPA of 3.97 or higher; candidates graduating with high distinction have attained a cumulative GPA between 3.88 and 3.96; and candidates graduating with distinction have attained a cumulative GPA between 3.74 and 3.87 (may change).

Diplomas

Diplomas will NOT be issued at the commencement ceremony. All candidates for graduation received verification letters from the University Registrar showing how their names will appear on their diplomas. If the name is incorrect, students should file a request for a name change immediately. A mailing date for diplomas has yet to be determined.

Caps and Gowns

Students participating in the academic procession and ceremony must wear caps and gowns. Tips on what looks best with academic regalia:

  • For men: dark trousers, white shirt and tie, dark shoes
  • For women: a dress or skirt that does not hang below the robe or dark pants, dress shoes (not flip-flops)

Securing Valuables:

Candidates for degrees should have parents or guests take control of any valuables - purses, cameras, etc., - before moving to the assembly area.

A Gift to Graduates

The Penn State Altoona Bookstore will have a table set up at commencement location.