Receiving an academic degree or diploma is the main aspect of a graduation. In order to graduate, you must complete some length of education to a degree acceptable enough to move on from one level, or grade, to another. You must graduate elementary, middle, & high school in that order respectively if you want to get into college or trade school. The point of graduating is to prove to your elders that you are good enough to do what they do (career-wise). Documentation of your efforts is key!