Turning the tassel: A guide to 2026 graduation events
For Lee University seniors, graduation is right around the corner. Preparing for this ceremony can be complicated. Tracey Carlson, director of academic events, is offering insightful information for students who are overwhelmed or looking ahead to graduation on May 9.
One of the first steps towards graduation is completing your general studies test (GNST) and senior major field test (SMFT). Many students wonder what the difference between these two tests are, or why they are required to take them before graduating.
The GNST tests over the general core that you learned at Lee and there’s no studying for any of these tests, according to Carlson. Testing is generally done during the fall of students senior year, but it can be postponed until one’s last semester at Lee. It is scheduled for Saturday.
The second test that seniors are required to take is the SMFT. The field test determines the quality of instruction and comprehension within one’s major.
“[These tests] make sure the quality of the teaching is done well and the material that is covered is hitting the objectives that we think students should be learning,” said Carlson.
Another reason Lee requires senior testing is to determine the institution’s standing among other colleges.
“It’s compared nationally with all the other students that are taking these tests across the nation, and we compare those to how well we are doing in order to determine if we are meeting our objectives,” Carlson said.
The task of completing everything and keeping all of the dates straight can become challenging, Carlson notes.
“Get started now, don’t wait,” she said.
Carlson emphasized several dates for May grads to keep in mind:
March 1 is the last day for anyone to apply to graduate in the Spring 2026
Service learning hours are due for all seniors on March 16 to ensure graduation clearance.
On March 26, the official Spring 2026 candidates will be posted. Graduation Status Report must indicate “clear” or “complete” to be an official candidate to graduate.
April 23 is senior honors chapel. Students graduating with academic honors are highlighted during chapel.
Graduating students may pick up their regalia and receive final clearances on May 7 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Following these events, graduation rehearsal will begin at 2:30 p.m.
The commissioning service is being held on May 8 on the South Campus Quad Lawn, beginning at 6:30 p.m.
The commencement ceremony will begin at 9:30 a.m. on May 9th is the day. The ceremony is held on the south campus quad lawn.
Carlson notes it is common to feel stuck or not know what to do in one’s final semester.
“It is important to lean on those around you when juggling these dates and looking to have that diploma in hand,” Carlson said.
With that, pay attention to the dates sent out, stay on top of your work, and get ready to walk across that stage!
