FAQ - CERA/CERV Graduation

1. The Application for Graduation is due on June 1st, but I will not meet all requirements until I complete courses taken in July. Can I still graduate in August?
   Yes. Submit your application and note which courses are required in July. Approval for graduation is granted provisionally.
2. I meet all requirements for graduation except one Election Center conference/workshop. I plan to attend the National Conference at which graduation will take place. Can I use this on my Application for Graduation and still graduate?
   No. All conference attendance requirements must be completed before submitting your application.
3. I want to graduate but I am unable to attend the National Conference.
   Graduates who attend the graduation ceremony only and not the conference will be assessed an additional $100 to cover pro rata share of the ceremony. Graduates who do not attend the conference or the ceremony will be assessed a shipping handling fee of $100 to cover shipping costs and pro rata share of the ceremony.
4. How do I apply for graduation?
   Access the Application for Graduation or contact The Election Center at (281) 293-0101 or e-mail to services@electioncenter.org.
5. Do I need to include a list of the courses I have taken?
   No. The Election Center has records of all courses that you have attended.
6. If I am an elected official, who do I have sign off on my Experience Credit? Can I sign it myself?
   You need to obtain a signature from someone within your organization that oversees the County, i.e. Chief Administrative Office or a member of the Board of Supervisors, etc.
7. I attended an Election Center conference before taking my first PEP course. Can I use this for credit towards graduation?
   No. Experience and conference attendance must occur within the time frame of taking courses.
8. I have just returned to the elections profession, can I use my prior election experience on the Experience Credit portion of the graduation packet.
   No. You can only use your experience beginning immediately prior to beginning courses and must meet the requirement for three years and a jurisdiction-wide election.
9. How do I know when my Application for Graduation has been approved?
   You will receive written notification from The Election Center in mid to late July.
10. What can I do if my Application for Graduation is not approved and I dispute that finding?
    A procedure for appealing denied applications is available. Contact The Election Center at
    (281) 293-0101 or e-mail to services@electioncenter.org for this information.

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