upon graduation from

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "upon graduation from" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that something will happen or be done after the completion of one's studies or education. Example: Upon graduation from high school, Sarah plans to travel around the world before starting college.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

He joined Simplicity in 1953 upon graduation from law school.

The New York Times

Upon graduation from Columbia, Robeson realized that his greatest talent was as an actor and singer.

The New York Times

Upon graduation from college in 1958 he joined the Union of Artists.

The New York Times

Quite what he chooses upon graduation from Stanford University will prove fascinating in itself.

The Guardian - Sport

Upon graduation from high school, O'Keeffe determined to become a professional artist.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Upon graduation from Princeton in 1925, Kennan entered the foreign service.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Upon graduation from high school in the early 1960s, he signed with the Philadelphia Phillies.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Upon graduation from high school, Robinson signed a contract with the Orioles.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Upon graduation from Phillips Academy, Andover, he joined the U.S. Naval Reserve.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Upon graduation from Knoxville College in 1975, he worked as a copy boy for The Oakland Tribune.

The New York Times

Upon graduation from Barnstable High he joined the Army, serving two years in Korea earning the rank of Master Sergeant.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing for a more general audience, consider using "after graduating from" for better clarity and accessibility.

Common error

Avoid using "upon graduation from" to describe events that occur significantly later than the graduation date. "Upon" implies immediacy; for events occurring months or years later, use "after graduating from" or other more appropriate phrasing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "upon graduation from" functions as a prepositional phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate the timing of an action or event. Ludwig AI affirms this, providing numerous examples where it introduces what happens directly after the completion of studies.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Encyclopedias

15%

Science

12%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "upon graduation from" is a grammatically sound and frequently used prepositional phrase that signifies the timing of an event immediately following the completion of an academic program. Ludwig AI confirms this, providing many usage examples. While versatile, it carries a slightly more formal tone. It is best suited for biographical, academic, and formal contexts. Consider using alternatives like "after graduating from" in more casual settings. Be mindful to use it for events that happen soon after graduation. Key sources include The New York Times and Encyclopedia Britannica.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

after graduating from

This is a more common and slightly less formal way to express the same idea.

following graduation from

Similar in meaning but slightly more formal than "after graduating from".

post-graduation from

A more concise, slightly academic way of phrasing the same concept.

on graduating from

This phrase uses a gerund, emphasizing the act of graduating itself.

with a degree from

Focuses on the attainment of a degree rather than the act of graduating.

having graduated from

Uses a perfect participle to indicate a completed action before another action.

after completion of studies at

More formal and emphasizes the completion of a course of study.

subsequent to graduating from

A more formal and less common alternative.

once graduated from

Uses "once" to indicate the timing of the action following graduation.

after receiving a diploma from

Highlights the reception of a diploma as the point of transition.

FAQs

How can I use "upon graduation from" in a sentence?

The phrase "upon graduation from" is used to indicate something that happens immediately after graduating. For example, "Upon graduation from college, she started her own business".

What are some alternatives to "upon graduation from"?

You can use alternatives such as "after graduating from", "following graduation from", or "post-graduation from" depending on the context.

Is it more correct to say "upon graduation" or "after graduation"?

"Upon graduation" implies immediacy, while "after graduation" can refer to a period of time following graduation. Use "upon graduation" when something happens very soon after the graduation ceremony.

What's the difference between "upon graduation from" and "after graduating from"?

While similar, "upon graduation from" suggests a more immediate sequence of events than "after graduating from". The former creates a slightly more formal tone.