Graduation Checklist

The information provided below applies to candidates who are earning the following degrees: Master of Science, Master of Engineering, Engineer’s Degree, and Graduate Certificate. Please read ALL instructions.

1. Complete the Application for Graduation

Most students must complete an Master’s Application for Graduation and submit it to their academic departmental advisor. Students in the AME, BME, CS, and EE department should submit their application to graduate online at http://myviterbi.usc.edu. The application informs department advisors that a student plans to complete his or her degree requirements in a specified term, and prompts advisors to complete a degree check. The application or degree check is not automatically generated.

2. When to Apply for Graduation

Submit the Application for Graduation AFTER you register for your final semester but BEFORE the deadline to register and add or drop a course. The deadline is defined as the last day to add or drop a course without a mark of ‘W’ on the transcript. To view the registration calendar, check the Schedule of Classes under the appropriate term.Ideally, students should submit the application at least a month before the final semester begins. For example, students who will graduate in May should submit the application in December of the previous year, after they have registered for their final coursework. We highly encourage early submission in the event that you are missing degree requirements and need to take action to ensure timely graduation.

3. How to Apply for Graduation

Register for the classes you will take in your final semester.
Complete the Master’s Application for Graduation. Include your final semester courses, but do not enter your grades for those courses.
Submit the application to your department advisor.

4. Check your STARS Report

STudent Academic Record System (STARS) checks students’ academic progress toward completing their declared degree objective. The information given on the Application for Graduation will be entered into your STARS report, which you can view on OASIS.

If your STARS Report says…	It indicates that…
ALL REQUIREMENTS COMPLETED IN-PROGRESS COURSES USED	You will graduate in the expected term upon satisfactory completion of your coursework.
AT LEAST ONE REQUIREMENT HAS NOT BEEN SATISFIED	You must check which requirement is unmet and contact your department advisor. It is your responsibility to take appropriate action.

5. Appy for Optional Practical Training (OPT) *International Student Only*

Review details on the VASE International Students page.

6. Obtaining Degree Verification

Final grades are recorded on USC transcripts about 7-10 days after the end of each semester. Degrees will be recorded on the transcripts of students who satisfactorily complete their degree requirements. Students can check their degree completion status in their STARS report on OASIS. Students who need to show verification of graduation to an employer or a sponsor before the diploma is available can request an official transcript through the USC Office of Academic Records and Registrar.

7. Obtaining Your Diploma

Diplomas will be available about 4-8 weeks after the last day of your final semester, and can be obtained from the USC Office of Academic Records and Registrar. In general, your diploma will be mailed to your permanent mailing address if you no longer live in the 90007 and 90089 zip codes. Please update your contact information on OASIS if necessary.