Graduating with University Honors

"University Honors" is the highest academic distinction awarded by BYU to students at the undergraduate level. This prestigious designation is recorded on the university diploma and on the official transcript of grades. It is widely recognized as an indication of exceptional academic achievement. We celebrate these outstanding University Honors graduates each April during University graduation exercises, including University Commencement, Honors Graduation Exercises, and a celebratory luncheon. Friends, family, and the university community can learn about each Honors graduate and their published research through the Honors newsletter, on our website, and on Scholars Archive. All Honors graduates for the current academic year (December, April, June and August) are invited to participate. Learn more about these events and recognitions below.

Thesis Poster Session

Thursday, March 26, 2026, 11 am - 1 pm, WSC Garden Court
The poster session provides an opportunity for students to share their research with the broader Honors community in an informal, reception-style setting – complete with refreshments and more. Other family, students, staff, faculty and university administrators browse through the displays, and get to interact with the presenters to learn more about the projects represented. The thesis posters are retained by the Honors Program for a rotating display in the Honors Commons (first floor of the Maeser Building).

Honors Regalia

Each University Honors graduate receives an Honors medallion to wear proudly with a golden Honors v-stole during graduation exercises (commencement, Honors Graduation, and college convocations). Each graduate's name, thesis title, and advisor is listed in the official Honors program and Honors graduates are noted in individual college programs. When degrees are posted by the University, University Honors is noted on the university diploma and official transcripts, and students receive an official University Honors certificate.

University Commencement

April 23, 2026, 10:00 am, BYU Marriott Center
Brigham Young University holds one graduation ceremony annually in April. Students who have or will be graduating within a single academic year (eg. 2024-25 academic year) are invited to attend the April commencement. This university gathering includes all graduating students regardless of what school/college they graduated from. More information about the event will be posted on the University Commencement site as it becomes available.

Honors Graduation Exercises

April 23, 2026, 12:00 pm, Hinckley Center Assembly Hall
Honors graduates, faculty advisors, friends, and family are invited to attend this formal program to celebrate this milestone. Speakers and musical performers are selected by the Honors Program from among the graduates. The Associate Academic Vice President and Dean of Undergraduate Education preside. Each graduate's name is read as they walk up to be recognized and receive their Honors Program certificate. Each graduating student may reserve up to 5 tickets (graduate + up to 4 guests). Tickets required. Contact the Honors Program for ticket information.

Reception Lunch

April 23, 2026, 1:30 pm, Hinckley Center
Immediately following the Honors Graduation exercises, Honors graduates and their guests are invited to an informal, reception-style luncheon. Mix and mingle, enjoy a light boxed lunch, and celebrate with the Honors community before individual college convocations begin. Tickets required. Contact the Honors office for ticketing information.

College Convocations

In addition to Honors graduation, Honors students are invited to participate in convocation exercises for their home major/college. As with Honors graduation, at convocation each graduate's name is read as they walk up to be recognized and receive a diploma cover. The college dean presides at convocation, and the ceremony lasts approximately 1-2 hours. Family and friends are welcome although some convocations require tickets. Graduating students must have a cap and gown to participate in convocation. Your college will have more specific details about your convocation ceremony.