Graduation is not automatic upon completion of all coursework in a degree program. Students who intend to graduate must apply for graduation through home.apu.edu at least 120 days prior to degree posting, and pay the current graduation fee. Applying for graduation through home.apu.edu is mandatory, regardless of whether the student intends to participate in a commencement ceremony. The graduation application due dates and graduation dates are listed in the Academic Calendars.

A degree is granted based on the completion of all requirements prior to degree posting dates. This includes verification of maintaining the minimum grade-point average for the degree program.