Graduate on stage pointing at the crowd after receiving his diploma

Commencement Ceremonies

Explore ceremony schedules, ticket details, special events and an archive of past celebrations — everything you need to experience a Purdue commencement celebration. Together, we raise our voices once more to sing, All hail our own Purdue. 

Graduates facing the stage during graduation ceremony

Ceremony Schedule

Whether you’re walking across the stage, cheering from the audience or watching this milestone from afar, mark your calendar for an upcoming commencement ceremony.

A Purdue official carrying the ceremonial mace, leading the procession at graduation inside Elliott Hall of Music.

Ticket Information

Explore how guests can join the celebration in person or tune in from home to watch Purdue’s newest graduates take their giant leap.

Purdue students participating in Lavender Graduation pose for a photo in Purdue Memorial Union

Additional Events

Discover celebrations and events happening across campus with opportunities to participate or celebrate alongside graduates.

Celebrate the achievements of Boilermakers by viewing commencement ceremonies from recent years. 

Watch Videos
Purdue graduates walking beside the engineering fountain on the way to commencement
The back of a Purdue graduate with ever grateful on the top of their mortar board
The Purdue Extra Special Train leading a procession of graduates on the way to commencement
Graduates on the way to commencement ceremony walking by engineering fountain with the bell tower in the background

Traditions in Old Gold and Black

Purdue held the first commencement ceremony in 1875 for a class of one. With steady growth and a collection of time-honored traditions, ceremonies take place at the conclusion of each spring, summer and fall term and have been hosted in Elliott Hall of Music since 1940, recognizing students earning undergraduate, graduate and professional degrees.