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Ceremony Information

Graduates and guests, watch the and review the ceremony information for helpful tips for the big day! Doctoral and Master of Fine Arts graduates will receive an email with check-in and hooding instructions.

Each commencement ceremony will last approximately 2 1/2 hours (spring) or 2 hours (winter). The ceremony includes the graduate processional, speeches from University officials, and graduates receiving their diploma cover as they cross the commencement stage when their name is read. Graduates should wear regalia (cap and gown).

Graduates, go to with your cap and gown one hour before the start of your ceremony for check-in and line-up. Guests and children are not permitted in Horton Field House. During the ceremony, only the graduating student may cross the stage. Infants or children of any age cannot be held as graduates cross the stage, nor can they walk or sit with the graduating student. Additional participation information will be emailed to graduates three weeks prior to commencement.

Guest seating is first-come, first served, and doors will open one hour prior to the start of the ceremony. There are no tickets and no limit to the number of guests that may attend.

• No bags, backpacks, or boxes, except for small purses, small camera bags, diaper bags, and medical equipment.
• No strollers, outside food, inflated balloons, or items that create a visual obstruction for other guests (large signs, banners, etc.).
• No megaphones or other items that can create a noise disruption.

Download the official Illinois State mobile app to access campus maps, event details, and helpful resources throughout Commencement. It’s an easy way for students and visitors to navigate campus and stay informed during their visit. 

Registration for the commencement ceremonies begins in late February (spring) or late-September (winter). All students who have applied for graduation by the published deadline will receive an email from the Commencement office about ceremony registration. Students graduating in spring or summer participate in a May commencement ceremony.