The purpose of the early deadline is to allow thesis and dissertation students who complete all requirements for graduation before the next semester starts to graduate at the end of the current semester without having to register for thesis or dissertation hours in the next semester. The students’ official graduation date will be at the conclusion of the next semester.

For example, a student who completes the requirements before the regular spring semester starts could do the Early Spring Deadline without having to register for classes in the regular spring semester. Their official graduation date would be at the conclusion of the regular spring semester.