Commencement FAQ
Who can walk the stage?
Northeast Lakeview College holds an annual Graduation ceremony in May. Students may participate in the ceremony if they are graduating in the current Spring semester, subsequent Summer semester, or previous Fall semester.
What time should I arrive at the Freeman Coliseum?
Arrival & Check-In Instructions
- Arrival & Check-In: 4:30PM
Candidates must arrive for check-in at the Freeman Coliseum Expo Hall 2
Check-in is required during this time. - Seated: 5:45PM
- Line-Up: 6PM
All candidates must be in place for the procession.
Procession: 6:30PM – Procession begins.
Do I have to attend the ceremony in order to receive my diploma?
No; walking the stage is optional. All diplomas are mailed out 8-10 weeks after completion of degree requirements.
Where can I get my cap & gown?
Distribution of graduation regalia is only during our Graduation Fiesta based on the information below:
Dates and Times
Monday, April 20, 2026 – 4PM – 6:30PM
Wednesday, April 22, 2026 – 10AM – 2PM
Location
Lampasas Performing Arts Center
If you qualify, you will also be provided with one or more of the following cords:
- NLC Honors Cord (Northeast Lakeview College GPA is 3.5 and above)
- Military Service Cord
- Alamo Promise Stole
- Early College High School Stole
- Scholarship Pin
Can I decorate my Cap and Gown?
Traditional NLC Graduates are encouraged to decorate their caps.
JECA students: Because High School graduation does not allow cap decorating, JECA students must keep their caps clean."
How are honors determined, and when will I receive my honors cords?
Any student who completes graduation requirements with a 3.5 NLC GPA (or higher) will be issued a gold Honors cord with their cap and gown at Graduation Fiesta.
Any additional recognition items are to be coordinated with specific organizations. For example, Phi Theta Kappa Stoles are purchased through the Phi Theta Kappa organization
How long can I expect the ceremony to be?
Charge your phone; the ceremony lasts up to 2 hours.
How can I order formal announcements/merchandise?
You may order graduation products through Jostens.com.
Do I need to be degree complete before attending Commencement?
Students may participate in commencement if they are within 12 hours of degree completion. Your diploma will not be mailed until ALL degree requirements are met.