Commencement FAQ
Do you have questions about this year’s commencement? Find answers to your commencement questions in the below FAQ.
IUPUI has a complete checklist to be certain that you’re ready for the big day. That includes checking your eligibility to graduate, how to order your cap and gown and check to see if you’re eligible for honor cords, how to request accessibility accommodations and even how to apply to be a student speaker.
The combined ceremony for both graduate and undergraduate students will be 7 p.m., May 9, 2024, at Carroll Stadium.
You are invited to participate in Commencement if you complete degree requirements between fall term 2023 and summer term 2024. There is one ceremony for all graduate and undergraduate degree recipients. There is no winter or summer Commencement ceremony.
Perhaps mostly importantly, hosting Commencement later in the day allows more time for families and loved ones traveling from out of town or out of state to get to Indianapolis. Many schools and programs also hold recognition events earlier in the day, so the later start time allows for more flexibility. It also lets the university add in a few fun surprises during the ceremony itself to help appropriately celebrate the fun and excitement of our graduates who have completed their college journey!
You’re encouraged to attend both! School recognition events are a great opportunity to hear from your school’s leadership and faculty, interact with fellow graduates, and have your individual name read as you cross the stage. Commencement is a grand celebration across the campus and graduates will have the opportunity to hear from the president, have their degrees officially conferred, and interact with graduates from all schools. Your school ceremony has added pomp and circumstance to help celebrate this special day!
Likely, yes! Each school, department or program organizes its own event and will issue invitations. Look for your school or affinity group’s recognition event contact information online.
If rain is expected, the ceremony will still take place at the scheduled time and location. Free ponchos will be provided to graduates and guests. But remember, no umbrellas are allowed to be sure every guest has a good view of the ceremony. If severe weather is expected – a tornado, for example, or lightning – the ceremony plans may be altered and announced. A full severe weather plan is available online.