Degrees of Distinction

Only undergraduate students are eligible for degrees of distinction.

Every level of degree distinction requires you to meet the qualifications for BOTH Cum GPA AND Combined Cum. Both GPA calculations have the same qualifying value range into which your average must fall to earn the specified degree of distinction. The following table illustrates the required value range combinations.

• Levels of degree distinction are calculated based on all attempted college-level work, regardless of how many years have elapsed since the hours were earned.
  • IMPORTANT: All attempted college-level work comprises transfer credit, high school dual enrollment credit, and all credit earned at FSU.
• Remedial and vocational hours do not factor into the calculation.
• At least forty letter-graded hours, including the final term's hours, must be taken at FSU.

Definitions

Cum GPA = the average of the hours you've taken ONLY at FSU. No transfer hours alter this average.

Combined Cum = the average of BOTH the Cum GPA AND the Transfer Cum GPA

Transfer Cum GPA = the average of your transfer hours, high school-dual enrollment hours, and the current term's completed, degree-required hours

You may review your Cum GPA, Transfer Cum GPA, and Combined Cum by accessing your unofficial transcript, or by going to Student Center and viewing your Student Services Center page.

NOTE: Be aware that your anticipated degree of distinction can change during the time between the Commencement Ceremony and official grade posting. At the ceremony, your announced distinction will be based only on the coursework you have completed through the previous semester. Grades earned during your last semester may or may not alter your degree distinction once they are calculated into your GPA.

Degrees of Distinction Cords

All undergraduate students who applied for graduation and who are eligible for an honor cord from a degree of distinction will receive an email prior to commencement listing dates and times for honor-cord pickup.

If you are unable to pick up your honor cord prior to commencement, you may still obtain it on the day of your ceremony. Look for the honor-cord table located in the hallway before entering the arena.

Please direct any additional questions regarding your eligibility for a degree of distinction to the Graduation & Commencement Services office at graduation@fsu.edu.