A Forest for All
You’ve made it. After all the classes, tests, papers, labs and having what seems like a lifetime’s worth of experiences, you’ve reached the next transition point: moving Out of the Forest and on to what’s next. This moment may feel a bit uncertain, a bit exciting, and you’re probably wondering what you’re supposed to do, both now and in the months to come. That’s what this site is for!
Check out the calendar below and the tips on Getting Started for important deadlines and resources you need to know before you go. And, look through Alumni 101 for resources, tools, and advice to carry you through your first weeks and months out there, in the real world. (Parents and Families, we have some advice for you, too.)
You may be leaving the Forest, but you’re a Deacon for life. And there’s a whole community here to support you on your journey.
Dates to Remember
Fall 2025
| Date | Action | Information |
|---|---|---|
| September 1 | Apply to Graduate in December 2025 | For students who have met all of their degree requirements and expect to graduate in December 2025 |
| October 24-26 | Homecoming and Reunion Weekend | Join us for Homecoming & Reunion Weekend as the Demon Deacons take on SMU. Use the Screamin’ Demon Rewards App to claim and download your ticket before you arrive at the stadium! |
| Mid Fall | Take Your Senior Portrait | Make sure you’re included in The Howler, Wake Forest’s yearbook, by getting your Senior Portrait taken |
| December 15 | Apply to Graduate in May 2026 | For students who have met all of their degree requirements and expect to graduate in May 2026 |
| November-December | December Graduates I.S. Checklist | Important steps for December graduates to take regarding Wake Forest technology and systems |
Spring 2026
| Date | Action | Information |
|---|---|---|
| TBD | Howler – Senior Portrait Schedule | The link will be sent by Prestige/LifeTouch via email |
| February 3 | Year One 101: Talking About Transition | Seniors will meet with Wake Forest alumni to talk about success, meaning, purpose, balance, and making themost of the transition from college to post-college work and life. |
| February 10 | Year One 101: Strengths for Post-Grad Success | Seniors will explore their CliftonStrengths results and identify direct applications to post-grad life. |
| February 17 | Year One 101: Post-Forest Finances | Seniors will learn about a range of financial topics from insurance and taxes to savings and retirement and budgeting. |
| February 19 | Year One 101: Post-Forest Finances | A repeat of the February 17th workshop. |
| February 24 | Year One 101: Life as an Alumnus | Seniors will engage with Alumni Engagement and Alumni Personal and Career Development Staff about all of the unexpected benefits that come with a Wake Forest University degree. |
| Mid-March | Commencement website and registration goes live | Find information about commencement tickets, regalia, schedule, diplomas, etc. |
| April | Exit interviews and clear financial debts | Schedule your exit interview with financial aid if applicable. Also be sure to pay any fines or other financial debts on your student account. Your account must be cleared before graduation. |
| April | Record your name in NameCoach | Record your own voice saying your name, as you would like it to be read during the Commencement ceremony. |
| April 28 | Deadline to order your Cap and Gown | Visit the Herff Jones website and ensure you have your academic regalia for Graduation. |
| Spring | Get started with iGrad, a free tool to help with your financial understanding and wellbeing | Learn to manage your money with free online financial resources at your fingertips 24/7. |
| Ongoing | Create an alumni email address | Your student email will be deactivated 60 days post graduation. |
| Ongoing | Update your WAKENetwork account, and transfer info from your student account |
May 2026
| Date | Action | Information |
|---|---|---|
| Ongoing | Complete your “First-Destination” Information via Handshake | If you already have a job or have been accepted to a graduate/professional school program, complete your First Destination information. For post-grad planning support, please visit the OPCD and schedule an appointment with a coach. |
| Ongoing | Complete the Pre-Graduation Student Technology Checklist | Review these steps compiled by the Information Systems team for how to make an ease your technology transition from WFU |
| May 17 | Celebration of the Class of 2025 | Graduates and their families are invited to gather to kick-off Commencement weekend. Join us for a light reception with many photo opportunities in the ZSR Library. |
| May 16-19 | Commencement Weekend | Visit the Commencement website for information about ticket pick-up, parking details, and a full schedule of events. |