2026 Fall Graduation Ceremony

September 2026 Graduation Ceremony

  • Date
    Friday, September 18, 2026 12:00~15:30
  • Venue
    Beppu International Convention Center (B-Con Plaza) (12-1 Yamanote-machi, Beppu)

Introduction of the Tassel Turning Ceremony

We are pleased to introduce the Tassel Turning Ceremony as a new feature of APU's graduation celebrations.
The Tassel Turning Ceremony is a tradition in which graduates move the tassel on their mortarboard cap from the right side to the left side, marking the completion of their studies and the transition from student to graduate. It symbolizes the beginning of a new chapter in life.
At APU, this ceremony has been introduced to recognize and celebrate the hard work, achievements, and personal growth of our graduates, while also marking their departure toward a bright future. As all participants move their tassels together, the entire venue will be united in a memorable and meaningful moment that celebrates this important milestone.

Notes

  1. Please be sure to bring your Student ID Card. Your card will be required when you enter the venue and receive your diploma.
  2. Regarding visa application procedures for family members / guardians coming to Japan, please check the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (go to an external site), and do so at your own risk.
  3. Please use public transportation and refrain from coming by private car.
  4. Photos and videos will be taken by APU staff and media on the day of the event. We appreciate your understanding. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us at the following:
    APU Public Relations: r-apu@apu.ac.jp

Click here for details on how to receive your degree.

Inquiry Regarding the Degree Conferral Ceremony: gradteam@apu.ac.jp

Information

Join the APU Alumni Association and connect with 26,400 alumni around the world!

Since its inception, APU has proudly sent out approximately 26,400 graduates from 156 countries and regions. This network will be a great support to you in your career after graduation. Why not join the APU Alumni Association and connect with alumni from around the world?
APU Alumni Association Website

For those who wish to rent a gown* or return their Co-op investment at the APU Co-op
*except for Doctoral Degrees

For more information, please visit the APU Co-op website

Checklist for Graduating Students

For procedures required when leaving Beppu after graduation, please refer to here .

FAQ

1.Diplomas, Certificates

Q.
Is a diploma the same as a certificate of graduation?
A.

No. The diploma, which is issued only once at the time of graduation (or completion), is proof that you have earned a degree. Meanwhile, the certificate of graduation, much like a Certificate of Attendance or a Transcript of Academic Record, can be issued when needed. It is often required for job interviews or graduate school applications

Q.
I lost my diploma. Can it be reissued?
A.

No. Your diploma is an original document that cannot be reissued.

Q.
I lost my certificate of graduation and/or academic transcript. Can they be reissued?
A.

Yes. These certificates can be issued in whatever quantity you require. Please submit your application to the Student Office.

Q.
I need to submit a certificate of graduation to my prospective employer or graduate school. Can I obtain one before the graduation ceremony?
A.

No. You cannot obtain this certificate until you receive your diploma.

Q.
Can I receive a scan of my diploma and certificates?
A.

No. The University cannot provide scans of diplomas or any certificates.

Q.
Can the university issue a document certifying that the degree conferral ceremony will be held?
A.

No. If you need documents related to the degree conferral ceremony for visa application purposes, please print the information from the degree conferral (graduation) ceremony website.

Q.
I am thinking of inviting my family or friends to the graduation ceremony. If a Visa is required for visiting Japan, is it possible to receive any support (such as document issuance) from APU?"
A.

We don’t provide any support for visa applications for them. As we mention on the site, regarding visa application procedures for their coming to Japan, please check the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and handle it on your own responsibility.

Q.
What are the requirements for obtaining a visa?
A.

Please check the application requirements with your embassy and on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.

2.Graduation Ceremony Day

Q.
What items will I receive on the day of the graduation ceremony?
A.

The following items will be provided.

  • Diploma (1 copy)
  • Certificate of Graduation/Completion (Japanese and English, 1 copy each)
  • Grade Transcript (Japanese and English, 1 copy each)
  • Graduation Souvenirs
  • Division / Specialization Certificate (Japanese and English, 1 copy each) ※Grad students only, limited to those who meet the requirements.
Q.
Do I need to bring anything with me to the graduation ceremony?
A.

Please bring your Student ID card.

Q.
Can I use the university parking lots?
A.

We kindly ask that visitors use public transportation when coming to the university. (Please be noted that you cannot visit by car.)

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