Family & Guests

Commencement Ceremony

Spring 2025 Commencement

Date: Thursday, May 15, 2025
Processional: 7:30 p.m.
Ceremony Time: 8:00 p.m. 
Location: Michael A. Carroll Stadium

What to Expect

Know Before You Go:

  • There is one ceremony for graduate and undergraduate degree recipients.
  • Gates A, B, and C will be open at Michael A. Carroll Stadium at 6 p.m.
  • No tickets will be required. See venue staff for accessibility needs. Arrive early for best seating.
  • There are several road construction projects in and around downtown Indianapolis, so please plan your driving route in advance to avoid possible delays.

  • Free guest parking is available in most surface lots and parking garages around campus and near Carroll Stadium.
  • Accessible parking is located in Lot 80. Enter the stadium through Gate A.
  • No guest parking is allowed in the Sports Complex or Riverwalk garages.

Text “IUIgrad” to 67283 to opt-in to traffic, parking, and safety messages during commencement.

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  • Upon arrival at the venue, guests walk through metal detectors.
  • Guests are permitted to bring a clear bag that is approximately the size of a one-gallon freezer bag or a small clutch approximately the size of a hand. Diaper bags and those containing medical necessities are permitted. Bags are inspected by trained security staff.
  • Guest seating is offered on a first-come, first-served basis, so come early for the best seat.
  • Given the size of the Commencement audience, large parties are not allowed to save seats. Instead, we ask groups to gather outside and come in together. An usher can help you find group seating.
  • Because of the large number of graduates, we are unable to introduce each graduate by name.
  • To ensure that all attendees have an unobscured viewing of the ceremony and graduates, signs, flags, placards, and banners are not permitted. Additionally, packages, wrapped gifts, noise makers, weapons, balloons, and outside food and beverage are prohibited.
  • Strollers are not permitted inside the venue.
  • No alcoholic beverages are permitted at Commencement.
  • Check out special offers and pre-order a photo package of your graduate. After graduation, view the graduation portraits taken by GradImages.
  • Event organizers and venues will not be responsible for lost items.

Accessibility at Commencement

Commencement is for everybody. If you need it, you can get help with accessible seating, parking, ASL interpreters, and more.

Travel, Visas, and Where to Go

Find out the best ways to get to Indianapolis and where to stay and eat when you get here.

International Travel Info

International travelers will need a visa. Find out more about important international travel safety measures.

See the Graduation Checklist

Make sure your graduate has applied, is eligible, and knows where to pick up items needed for Commencement with this checklist.

Order Keepsakes and Gifts

Need something to gift to your graduate? Consider these great gift ideas with official IU insignias.

Weather, Safety, and What Not to Bring

Read about what not to bring and other standard security measures in place on campus and at Commencement.

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