Day of Commencement
Commencement day is an exciting milestone — and we want you to feel prepared from the moment you arrive. Use the guide below to know exactly where to go, what to bring and how the ceremony will unfold.
There is no rehearsal for commencement.
Before You Arrive
Make sure you complete the following ahead of your ceremony:
- Review your division’s date and time on the Ceremonies Schedule. All times listed are Eastern Time.
- Read the check-in and procession instructions so you know where to go and when.
- Share the Families and Guests page with friends and family.
- Plan to arrive at the Armory wearing your cap and gown 90 minutes before your ceremony starts.
Check-in Instructions
Location: Holloway Gymnasium
Arrival Time: 90 minutes before your ceremony
Attire: Cap and gown must be worn upon arrival
Bags: Leave all bags at home or in your vehicle; storage is not available
When you arrive, you’ll:
- Check in with your college or school
- Receive honor cords (if eligible)
- Receive your orator card
- Take your professional portrait (available only if you arrive on time)
- Pick up your commencement program
- Line up for the academic procession into Elliott Hall of Music
If you arrive less than 90 minutes before your ceremony, you may not have time to complete all check-in steps and may forfeit your portrait opportunity. Learn more about photography and video at the ceremony.
If you arrive after the ceremony begins, you will not be permitted to participate. You may request to return for a future ceremony by emailing commencement@purdue.edu.
Procession Instructions
The academic procession begins approximately 35 minutes before the published ceremony start time. If an emergency delays your arrival after the procession begins, do not join the line. Report directly to the Atrium entrance of Mackey Arena north entrance lobby for instructions. The Atrium entrance is located directly across from the entrance to Holloway Gymnasium. If you arrive after the ceremony has officially started, you will not be permitted to participate and must request returnee approval for a future ceremony.
Additional Guidance for Graduate Students
- Master’s graduates: Wear your hood during the procession.
- PhD graduates: Carry your hood over your left arm, velvet facing outward.
Hooding Information (PhD Only)
All PhD candidates are hooded on stage. Your Major Professor will hood you; if they cannot attend, a dean will perform the hooding.
Guest Information
Please direct your guests to our Families and Guests page for more information on:
