There are a lot of tasks to remember when completing your thesis deposit. Don't worry! We've got you covered. Below is a list of items that will help you stay on track while you are depositing your thesis.
We also invite you to visit our Completing Your Degree page for information on Commencement and other things to consider as you leave the University of Illinois.
1. Check Deadlines
Each deposit period has firm deadlines by which students must apply for graduation, take the doctoral final examination, and deposit the thesis.
2. Apply for Graduation
Access your Student Self-Service account to apply for graduation (often referred to as adding your name to the degree list).
3. Submit Your Title Page for a Pre-Check
Submit your title page to the Thesis Office for review through this link. You can download a title page template on the title page requirements page. If you have a minor or a concentration, it’s a good idea to check your Student Self-Service account to make sure that this is listed.
4. Format your Thesis
Format your thesis according to the Graduate College requirements. Your can download a Word or LaTeX template from our website.
5. Doctoral Students: Complete the Required Surveys
We recommend doing so before you submit your thesis to the Graduate College.
- Doctoral Exit Survey
- SED Survey (PhD and JSD students only)
6. Master's Students: Request Your TDA Form
Master's students should request a TDA form through the Graduate College Student Portal. We recommend that you submit this request at least one week before you plan to deposit your thesis with the Graduate College. Please note that once your department approves of your master's TDA it takes around 30 minutes for the form to be generated, so it is important to plan ahead.
Note: The Doctoral Dissertation TDA Form is generated when the final exam committee is approved. There is no action for a student to take.
7. Deposit Your Thesis with the Graduate College
Follow the instructions on the Submit Your Thesis page to deposit your thesis with the Graduate College. Please note that you will be asked to select a release option (which determines the visibility of your work in the Library's database IDEALS) at the time that you begin your thesis deposit.
The Graduate College will let you know via email when your thesis has been accepted for deposit.
8. Pay the Deposit Fee
When your thesis has been accepted for deposit, your student account will be charged a deposit fee. The fee is:
- $50 for doctoral students
- $25 for master's students
The fee will appear on your student account approximately one week after your deposit is complete. If your account is no longer active or you would like to inquire about payment options, please contact the University Bursar after your deposit is complete.
9. Request a Degree Certification Letter (Optional)
Prior to the date of degree conferral, you may need verification that you have completed all requirements for the degree (e.g., for employment or visa renewal). Request a Degree Certification Letter.