Students planning to graduate should follow the Applying for Graduation steps as outlined on the graduation website. 

No, there is no fee or cost to graduate.

Intent to Graduate applications are due on the following dates:

• Summer Semester - July 1
• Fall Semester - November 1
• Spring Semester - April 1

More steps to graduate information is outlined on the graduation website.

Southwest holds one commencement exercise each academic year following the spring semester.

There is no commencement rehearsal.

The commencement estimated time is approximately 2.5 hours.

The limit for the number of guest for the 2022 commencement ceremony is forthcoming. The college will follow all safety protocols associated with the pandemic. 

If you have applied for graduation and are eligible to participate in the ceremony, you will receive an email with instructions from graduation@southwest.tn.edu. If you have any questions related to your cap and gown, please email graduation@southwest.tn.edu. 

Diplomas will be available approximately six (6) weeks after grades have been finalized.

For current students, please check your My.Southwest email account for information regarding graduation and/or commencement. 

Those students who graduated last summer or fall should refer to their personal email account that is on file in the Southwest Records Office. 

An official transcript with the student's degree credential is the only legal document. The diploma is a wall display for decorative or ceremonial purposes. Click here for more information about requesting your transcript.