Always a Hawkeye
Your great story at Iowa doesn't end with graduation.
Continue yours. Find out how.
Congratulations First-Gen Grads!
First-Gen Grad Cord Distribution
Spring & Summer 2025 Distribution Cycle Ended May 16
Are you an undergrad, graduate, or professional student who is graduating in December 2025?
Don't forget to grab your FREE first-gen grad cord!
December Distribution Dates TBA
(dates will be announced in November 2025)
Location TBA
Pick up Day/Times TBA
See additional day/time information below.
Have questions about first-gen grad cords?
Click here to find answers!
*Closing at 5:00 pm on DATE TBA; the Welcome Center will not be open on DATES TBA for late pick ups; other daily hours could vary depending on Welcome Center staffing and event schedules.
Learn more here!
Once a Hawkeye,
Always a Hawkeye
Graduation cords have long been worn by graduates during commencement ceremonies as a symbol of personal and academic achievement. At the University of Iowa, we are proud to provide graduation cords to first-generation undergraduate and grad/professional students, to help you mark the significant accomplishment of reaching graduation day.
Why are our first-gen grad cords gold and blue?
The colors, gold and blue carry significance for graduates. Gold represents the University of Iowa, while blue is often associated with the field of education. This color combination reminds graduates of the significant academic achievements you accomplished as a Hawkeye.
When wearing your first-gen cords, we hope feel the presence of the many faculty, staff, family members, friends, teachers, mentors, and others who have been supporting you and cheering for you during your entire educational journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
You have questions?
We have answers!
Q: What if I'm graduating in a later semester? Can I pick up a grad cord during the current distribution cycle?
A: Due to limited availability, graduation cord pick up is reserved for current graduates. Cords for students graduating in later semesters will be made available for them.
Q: What if I'm not walking in a ceremony? Can I still have a first-gen grad cord?
A: Yes! Participation in a ceremony is not required.
Q: Who qualifies as first-gen and who can have a first-gen grad cord?
A: Undergrads, graduate, professional students... see our "About" page for a comprehensive definition of how we define "first-gen" at the University of Iowa. You do NOT have to be registered as first-gen or have participated in any specific programming at the University of Iowa to qualify for a first-gen grad cord.
Q: Can I pick one up for my friend?
A: Yes! If your first-gen grad friend is not available, you are welcome to grab a cord for them.
Q: Do I need to show ID when I get my first-gen grad cord?
A: Yes. Please bring your university student ID with you (Iowa OneCard) so we can scan it for tracking purposes. However, if you forget it, we can still have you provide your HawkID information and receive a cord.
Q: I'm also in TRIO SSS and they have grad cords too. Are these the same as first-gen grad cords?
A: No! If you're also in TRIO SSS, be sure to grab both first-gen and TRIO SSS grad cords!
Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to attend all University of Iowa-sponsored events. If you are a person with a disability who requires a reasonable accommodation in order to participate in this program, please contact Angie Lamb in advance at 319-335-2062.
Special Message to First-Gen Graduates
Congratulations, Graduates!
From the UI Community
Since May 2020, we have honored first-gen graduates with a special congratulatory video. This gift is one of our final opportunities to communicate how proud we are of everything you have accomplished and wish you all the best as you begin a new chapter as a UI alum.