The MACHE graduation ceremony is open to all privately homeschooled high school students in Maryland. We recognize that parents have the primary responsibility and authority to determine when their student has completed their high school education, and we honor that decision. Our role is simply to provide a meaningful ceremony to celebrate this accomplishment—not to certify, approve, or endorse any school or student. While MACHE membership is not required to participate, members do receive a discounted registration rate. If your student is ready to graduate this year, we would be delighted to celebrate with your family.

No, you do not need to be a MACHE member to register for the graduation ceremony. However, MACHE members receive a discounted registration rate. Families are welcome to join MACHE at any time if they’d like to take advantage of the member discount.

All graduates must register by the posted deadline in order to participate in the ceremony. This ensures we have enough time to prepare programs, materials, and personalized elements for each student. Registrations cannot be accepted after the deadline, so we encourage families to sign up early to secure their spot.

Your registration fee covers all essential elements of the graduation experience, including the venue, a meaningful ceremony and celebration, a commencement speaker, and a diploma for parents or guardians to present. It also includes a video montage featuring all graduates and five complimentary tickets for family or guests (with additional tickets available for purchase as space allows). If a reception is offered for that year’s ceremony, the graduate may attend for free, while guests may attend for an additional fee.

The location is currently being finalized. Please check back for updates.

The graduation rehearsal is a practice session held before the ceremony to help students and families understand the order of events and ensure the day runs smoothly. Attendance is mandatory for all graduates, and at least one parent or guardian should also attend. This gives everyone a chance to ask questions, practice walking the stage, and feel confident for the big day.

Yes, graduates should dress in semi-formal or dressy attire that is comfortable under their cap and gown. While gowns cover most of the outfit, we recommend wearing shoes that are easy to walk in during the ceremony. Families and guests are encouraged to dress nicely to celebrate this special occasion, and we recommend that parents or guardians presenting diplomas dress appropriately, as they will be photographed on stage with their graduate.

Graduates are responsible for providing their own cap and gown for the ceremony. The required attire is a white cap and gown with a gold tassel. We strongly recommend purchasing these items ahead of time to ensure they arrive in plenty of time for graduation day.

In keeping with the parent-led nature of homeschooling, the diploma is presented on stage by the student’s parent(s) or legal guardian(s). This moment is designed to honor the central role families play in their student’s education. Because of this focus, diplomas may only be presented by parents or guardians—not by teachers, coaches, or other mentors. We appreciate everyone’s understanding as we preserve the heart and purpose of this ceremony.

Yes! Graduates are welcome to wear their own honor cords, stoles, or other regalia to recognize achievements. While MACHE does not officially bestow these honors or recognize them verbally during the ceremony, you may include this information on your graduate’s page in the printed program to celebrate their accomplishments.

Yes, graduates can bring guests. Information on guest limits will be provided with registration details.