To those Attending TESC Commencement, Congratulations.

[Tex]

Maybe they are trying to save a few bucks or at the very least time, labor and delivery costs. Just let them know you are not attending but would like the items mailed to your home.

I cannot imagine those who've received honors recognition not receiving their cords along with the certificates. I would bet TESCs grads are mostly out of state students. Something is missing in the language.

Sounds to me like this is how it should be interpreted:

"...As for the cords and tassels, unless you submitted a commencement attendance form, we order grads' academic regalia based upon the 'yes' responses."

If you want cords and tassels but are not attending, you must submit a commencement attendance form stating that you won't be attending but you must also mark your academic regalia. Otherwise, they just won't order/send you any.

Or at least that's how I take it. The key word there is "unless," which signifies that there is a qualifier for getting cap and gown (sending in the form, regardless of if you're attending or not).