Graduation FAQs

What are the GPA and attendance requirements? 

Your overall GPA must be a 2.0 or higher, and your overall attendance should be 80%.

What if I have not met these requirements?

Your Student Success Advisor will be in contact to review a plan to get you on track to graduate. However, you can expedite this process by emailing studentservicesteam@ciat.edu. 

When will I receive my diploma or certificate? 

Processing of your diploma or certificate is contingent upon financial clearance. The standard processing time with clearance is within 90 days of your graduation (or, last day of class). Once all financial and registration clearances are confirmed, your diploma or certificate will be prepared and sent to you without delay. 

Do I need to petition to graduate? 

You will be registered into the Future Graduate Module in Canvas during the last course in your program for a smooth transition from active student status to graduate. The simple 4-step petition to graduate process will allow you to ensure you are cleared in all requirements to effectively exit the school. CIAT students will need to complete the module in Canvas which allows the student to review financials, complete employment verification, schedule any Career Services assistance, share feedback, and update contact information. CIAT highly encourages all students to complete this step. 

Why is employment verification required?

CIAT is a vocational college and as such requires all students to complete employment verification.

How do I sign up for the next in-person commencement ceremony?

Each year, the upcoming commencement information will be posted on our Commencement Page. If you don't see your commencement information posted yet, stay tuned as it is updated annually. Our next in-person ceremony will be in June 2025.

How do I connect with Career Services? 

We have numerous resources to assist you in your career exploration and preparation. Appointments can be scheduled in Handshake or by emailing careerservices@ciat.edu.

What is Handshake and how do I gain access? 

Handshake is a site that we partner with to connect you with potential employers and help you jumpstart your career! Use this link to access our introduction to Handshake! You can find directions for how to reset your password here.