Each graduation season, I always get asked, what is the difference between a graduation invitation and a graduation announcement? 

Although the two terms are often used interchangeably, they are indeed two different animals. An invitation is usually only sent to very close family members and friends inviting them to the actual graduation ceremony. An announcement is sent to all family members and friends simply to announce your upcoming achievement. Sending one or the other is usually not a big deal except in instances where seating is limited and graduating seniors are actually limited on the amount of guests they can invite to their ceremony.

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Grad Invitation or Announcement?

Etiquette Tips for Sending Graduation Announcements

• Announcement wording can be informal.
• Be sure to include your full name, school name, and year of graduation. You can also include any special honors you have received.
• If you are not having a party, announcements can be sent immediately following the graduation ceremony. If you are having a party, the invitation should be mailed three to four weeks prior to the party.
• Send an announcement to anyone (family member, friend, neighbor) who you would normally invite to a backyard bbq.
• If you are having a graduation party, invite as many of these people as possible to your party as well.
• Hand-address the envelopes and do not use abbreviations.
• Mail the announcements, as opposed to hand-delivering them or making a Facebook invitation—even if you have to ask for a mailing address.
• If you are officially inviting someone to your graduation, it is okay to send an announcement as well.
• If you receive a gift, be sure to promptly write a personalized thank you card.

Etiquette Tips for Sending Graduation invitations

• The wording on an invitation should be more formal than that of your announcement.
• Be sure to include your full name, school name, full date, time, and location with a complete address to your graduation ceremony.
• You can also include any special honors you have received.
• If your school’s complex is big, you can also include a map with instructions to get to the auditorium/stadium/gymnasium (ceremony site).
• Mail a graduation invitation a tad earlier… four to six weeks… especially if you expect anyone to travel longer distances or have to arrange for air fare or hotel rooms.
• Send an invitation to anyone (family member, close friend) who you normally exchange birthday/Christmas presents with.
• If you are having a graduation party, invite as many of these people as possible to your party.
• Hand-address the envelopes and do not use abbreviations.
• Mail the invitations, as opposed to hand-delivering them or making a Facebook invitation—even if you have to ask for a mailing address.
• If you receive a gift, be sure to promptly write a personalized thank you card.

Etiquette Tips for Receiving Graduation Announcements/Invitations

• If you receive an announcement or invitation, you are under no obligation to send a gift, but it will likely be appreciated.
• Even if there is no party, you can still send a gift.
• If the party invitation includes an R. S. V. P., reply as soon as possible. This helps the family prepare.
• Your gift doesn’t have to be elaborate or expensive. Words of wisdom, school/dorm supplies, or small amounts of cash are all something the grad will appreciate.

Remember, graduation is an exciting time in your life. It marks the official end of childhood and the beginning of a bright and new future! 

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