Commencement

Apply for Graduation

• Log in to FlashLine
• Review your personal information and update if needed:
  • Name: Please be sure that your name is listed properly, as this is how it will be announced and listed in the commencement program.
  • Diploma Mailing Address: Please be sure to update your diploma mailing address to ensure that you receive your diploma.
  • Remove a Student Directory Restriction
    • More information can be found at:
      https://www.kent.edu/fbe-center/graduation-honors-and-recognition 
    • Even if you are not planning on attending your commencement ceremony, review the graduation checklist and respond about your ceremony attendance through the online RSVP system. Attendance at a commencement ceremony does not guarantee that your degree has been granted. All degree requirements must be met and verified before diplomas are printed.

RSVP

• RSVP for the Columbiana County Campuses Ceremony
• A reception with light refreshments for graduates and their family and friends will be held prior to the ceremony from 5- 6 p.m. Doors to the auditorium for seating will be open at 5:30 p.m.
• If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Sarah Motts: 330-337-4202 or smotts@kent.edu.

Guest Tickets

• Pick up your guests' tickets! Ticket number and pickup information will be determined after the RSVP date.
• If you need additional tickets, please email smotts@kent.edu. We will keep a request list and contact you the week prior regarding additional ticket availability.
• Make arrangements for guests with special needs that will be attending by emailing Danielle Baker-Rose at dbaker13@kent.edu.

Cap, gown and Graduation Materials

• Graduates will wear the traditional cap and gown, and caps should be placed or pinned so that they appear flat on top of the head. Acceptable attire for under your gown should be professional dress. Jeans, shorts and sneakers should not be worn. Typically, graduates wear dress pants, a shirt and tie or blouse, skirts, or dresses.
• For purchasing information, contact the Stark Campus bookstore at 330-244-5112 or the Kent Campus bookstore at 330-672-2762. Caps and gowns (black robe and cap) can also be purchased from an outside vendor. Tassels are being sold separately at the bookstores.

After the Ceremony

• Your digital diploma will arrive approximately 4-5 weeks after commencement.
  • Watch for an email notification that will be sent to your Kent State email address.
  • Follow the link to set up your Parchment digital credentials account.
  • Share and Download your digital diploma as many times as you like.
• Paper diplomas will be mailed separately to your permanent address on file 10-14 days after you receive your digital diploma. 
• Join the Alumni Association
• Settle accounts with the Bursar's Office
• Complete Student Financial Aid exit loan counseling

Kent Campus Ceremony

• Any student receiving an associate, bachelor’s, master’s, or a doctoral degree from any one of the eight campuses may attend.
• Students may attend BOTH the Columbiana County Campuses Ceremony on Friday evening and the Kent Campus ceremony.
• Students must RSVP separately to each event. (Spring 2025 candidates can access the RSVP to the Kent Campus ceremony by logging into FlashLine)
• Please view the Kent Campus ceremony schedule and details here: https://www.kent.edu/commencement
• Questions? Contact the Office of University Ceremonies at graduate@kent.edu.

Additional Information

• Still have questions? Contact Sarah Motts at 330-337-4202 or Shelly Weekley at 330-382-7415