Office of the University Registrar

University Honors and Honor Cords

To signify an undergraduate student graduating with Latin honors or with recognition from the university, honor cords are worn with academic regalia at the University Commencement in May and the Winter Convocation in December. The honors level (Cum laude, Magna cum laude, Summa cum laude and with Recognition) will also be reflected on the student's diploma and official transcript.

Undergraduate students who qualify will be sent an e-mail from the Office of the University Registrar informing them of their eligibility to purchase honor cords. Notification is sent approximately ten days prior to the event.

Eligibility

University Honors and Honor Cords are for graduates from Bachelor's degree programs only.

Undergraduate students must have an active graduation application to be eligible to wear honor cords.

Eligibility to wear honor cords during the Spring Commencement and Fall Convocation is based on the following criteria:

• Cumulative GPA at the end of the Fall Semester
  • The email is sent to students whose GPA at the time that the report is run (ten days prior to the event) would qualify them for honors. If a student qualifies based on grades posted after the report is run, Registrar's Office staff will verify eligibility and notify the Bookstore.
• Minimum number of credits earned at Mason.
  • For the May Commencement, credits in progress for the Spring semester as well as registered Summer semester credits are included.*
  • For the Winter Convocation, Fall 2012 credits in progress are included.
  • Credits earned through CREDIT BY EXAM and ADVANCED PLACEMENT are not included.
    

GPA Range	Minimum Mason Credits	Honors Earned
3.50-4.00	60	Latin honors (Cum laude 3.50-3.69; Magna cum laude 3.70-3.89; Summa cum laude 3.90-4.00)
3.80-4.00	45	With Recognition

*If your honors status changes with the completion of currently enrolled courses, it will be reflected on your diploma and official transcripts.

Please contact the Office of the University Registrar at 703-993-2441 or email graduate@gmu.edu with any questions regarding eligibility to wear honor cords.

Purchasing Honor Cords

• Honor cords will be available for purchase at the University Bookstore at an approximate cost of $20.00. All honors students will wear the same cord, regardless of their honors level.
• You must have a photo ID to purchase your honor cords.