Requests for early diplomas submitted within three weeks of the first convocation ceremony cannot be considered and will be cancelled.
Early diploma requests are reserved for students with unique circumstances only.
Requirements to receive a diploma prior to convocation:
To qualify for an early diploma, you must meet one of the following criteria:
- You have a time-sensitive application for a TN (or TN1) Visa. Upload your fully-signed US job offer that includes your start date, which can be up to 30 days after your convocation ceremony.
- You have other immigration-related circumstances that require an early diploma. Upload proof of requirement or meet with an Immigration Consultant and upload validation of the requirement.
- You have an educational opportunity that requires your diploma (as opposed to evidence of degree completion). Upload communication from the academic institution stating the original diploma is a requirement.
- You have a professional opportunity that requires your diploma (as opposed to evidence of degree completion). Obtain and submit a request from your proposed employer, on their letterhead that includes your start date (which can be up to 30 days after your convocation ceremony) and indicates that the diploma is necessary for your appointment.
If you receive an early diploma, you will not receive a diploma at an in-person convocation ceremony.
Undergraduate students
The convocation checklist is a helpful tool which includes steps you must take for graduation. Apply to graduate before submitting your early diploma request. Orders can only be submitted during your final term of study and orders submitted too early may be cancelled.
Students whose start date is before the official grade release may need to discuss a later start date with their potential employer. The grading process can take up to three weeks after the next term begins, and it is usually finished by the time official grades are released.
If you completed your degree in a prior term, your order can be processed when received.
Early diploma submissions for June 2026 will open after you have submitted your application to graduate for June 2026.
Graduate students
Requests for early diplomas can only be submitted once “Degree Awarded” appears at the top of your unofficial transcript. Orders submitted too early may be cancelled.
If the degree awarded section is not showing on your unofficial transcript, contact your department/program co-ordinator and ensure they have submitted all completion paperwork to the Graduate Studies and Postdoctoral Affairs office. Once the paperwork is submitted, “Degree Awarded” will appear on your transcript within 3-5 business days.
