Follow the steps below to prepare for and celebrate your graduation from Kirkwood.
You must apply for graduation in order to have your diploma awarded when you complete your studies. Be sure to apply by April 1 to have your name included in the commencement material.
It's quick and easy to check if you are ready to apply for graduation:
If your audit doesn’t show the pending status, but you’re sure you should be ready to graduate, contact your advisor immediately.
Once you have confirmed that you are ready to graduate:
Then sit back and give yourself a pat on the back! Be sure to apply by April 1 to have your name included in the commencement material.
View this year’s Commencement ceremony and celebrate the accomplishments of our Kirkwood graduates.
The Grad Fair is your opportunity to:
The Bookstore will offer standard cap and gown sizes for purchase at the Grad Fair. The first day to purchase these at the Bookstore will be the Grad Fair, but regalia will be available for purchase until Commencement Day. For custom sizes or to have your cap and gown shipped to your home, place your order online at Herff Jones (additional $14.90 shipping fee). The deadline for online orders is April 13, 2026, at 10:59 pm.
Kirkwood commencement exercises are held once each year in May. Graduates who complete their final program in the Fall 2025, Spring 2026, or Summer 2026 term are invited to attend the May 2026 ceremony. Participation is voluntary.
If you have any questions, contact the Registrar's Office:
Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Phone: 319-398-7600 or 1-877-386-9101
Fax: 319-398-4928
Email: Registrar - registrar@kirkwood.edu
FAFSA School Code: 004076
Location: 3rd Floor Iowa Hall
Mailing Address:
Kirkwood Community College
Registrar's Office
6301 Kirkwood Blvd. SW
Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52404