Graduation:
Graduation happens when you finally complete your degree requirements. Many schools require students to complete an official graduation petition with a minimum number of units, before they can receive their diploma. We recommend submitting your petition at the beginning of your last term (or sooner). 
As a rule of thumb, if you finish your requirements in the spring semester and submit a graduation petition, you can say that you “graduated” in the spring. However, it may take time for the college to evaluate your record and send an official diploma.

Commencement:
Commencement is the official term for the graduation ceremony, where students, family, and faculty celebrate their accomplishments. We hosts our annual commencement in Falcon Stadium at the end of the spring term.Participating in the commencement ceremony does not necessarily mean a student has graduated from the college, it means the student has petitioned to graduate.Graduates do not receive their diplomas or certificates at this ceremony.