Commencement Ceremony Information for Students & Graduates

• Check in begins at 90 minutes before the start of the ceremony
• Line up and instructions for Graduates begins 60 minutes before the start of the ceremony
• Graduate Processional begins promptly 15 minutes before the start of the ceremony
• Family and guests should plan to be seated before the processional begins. Those who are not will be required to wait outside the ballroom until the end of the processional.
• The length of the ceremony is dependent upon the number of graduates participating, but the typically finish within approximately 90 minutes.

• Recommended attire: Ladies - dress shoes with a low heel of 2 inches or less (candidates will be standing/walking for extended periods, and must navigate ramps onto and off of the stage during the ceremony). Men - white dress shirt, dark tie, dark dress pants, dress shoes.
• Wear your cap and gown. Please steam your robes.
• If you receive a gold tassel with your cap and gown, please only wear the gold tassel and not the green and white tassel.

• Cell phones must be silenced
• There will be no place to secure personal belongings during the ceremony. Please leave all personal items with family/guests or in your vehicle.
• A livestream will be available for viewing for those who cannot attend.

Who is eligible to participate?

Graduates of degree, certificate, and diploma programs are invited to participate in the Commencement Ceremonies each semester. All students who wish to participate must submit an online Commencement Participation Application. A $45 non-refundable fee is due when submitting the online application.

When will I receive information about the ceremony?
Detailed information is emailed to eligible students each semester.

Where can I purchase my cap and gown?
By completing the online Commencement Participation Application, a student is requesting the cap and gown to be ordered at that time. The $45 fee will cover the cap and gown order. Cap and gowns will be available for pick up at the Graduation Fair (or after at the Barton Campus GTC Bookstore).

Is there a rehearsal for the graduation ceremony?
There is no rehearsal for the graduation ceremony. However, line up instructions are given during the check in process. Please arrive in plenty of time to ensure that you are lined up correctly. Staff will be available throughout the ceremony assist with navigating the ceremony.

Can I change when I arrive?
Please arrive in your cap and gown, as the restrooms are not dressing rooms for graduates. Please also make arrangements to leave your belongings (bags, backpacks, purses, cell phones, etc.) with someone else, as there are no lockers available. All candidates should be prepared to be visually inspected.

How much does parking cost?
Parking is free for the event.

How long will the ceremony last?
The ceremony will last approximately 90 minutes, but the exact time varies depending on how many graduates are participating.

Can children attend the ceremony?
Children are welcome. However, the ceremony is not designed to keep the attention of children.