The Graduation Checklist for Parents

This milestone for your student can mean a lot of work for you. Use this checklist to bring some order to the chaos.

Work with your student to be sure they've completed the administrative steps to officially graduate.

• Remind your student to follow through on these tips for college students and high school graduates.
• Your student should receive information on how and where to obtain a cap and gown—along with any special stoles, pins, tassels or regalia—for the ceremony.
• Start working through this list of items for high school seniors if applicable.

Consider mementos of the occasion.

• Your student will have the opportunity to order class rings, yearbooks and other products to mark this important milestone. Check for deadlines.
• Graduation is also a good opportunity for family and individual photos. Many photographers specialize in senior portraits.

Make any reservations required.

• If you will be traveling to a college graduation, you may find that hotel rooms and transportation options are booked quickly and up to a year in advance.
• Graduation party venues may also become scarce depending on location and number of other graduates on your desired date.
• If you will order baked goods, catering, tents or other services, be sure to start that process early.

Invite friends and family to the party.

• Work with your student to plan a celebration everyone will enjoy.
• If guests ask what they can gift to your high school graduate, consider suggesting contributions to a college savings account or a gift card that can be used for textbooks and materials.
• Don't forget to have thank-you cards on hand for your student to send shortly after the celebration.

Start planning the move.

• Whether your college student is moving to a new job or returning home for a while, he or she may need assistance. See our moving checklist for college graduates.
• As your high school graduate prepares to move to campus, keep a copy of the college's suggested packing list handy. Also see some items you may want to take care of before fall term begins.