Planning Guide for Winter 2024 Ceremony

Before you arrive

Attire

Cap and gown rentals can be picked up at the University Book Store, 711 State Street. Academic attire (cap and gown) is required to participate in the ceremony.

Parking

Complimentary parking is available in several campus parking lots on Sunday, December 15. Learn more about accessible parking options at the Kohl Center.

Carry-in policy

To provide a safe environment and to expedite entry into the Kohl Center, please review our carry-in policy, which includes a list of allowed and permitted items.

Inclement weather

The safety of our graduates and guests is our top priority. In the case of severe weather prior to the ceremony, any updates and impacts to the ceremony will be communicated in advance.

When you arrive

Entry & seating

Upon arrival, graduates should enter the arena at Gate A. Seating is designated by school, college, or degree. Guest seating is general admission, first-come, first-served. Learn about seating, restrictions, and entry.

Accessibility

Our accessibility resources include information on day-of-the-ceremony parking and drop-off, mobility, and accommodations for seating and hearing. To make arrangements, please email accessibility@chancellor.wisc.edu.

During the ceremony

Live stream

The commencement ceremony will be streamed live on UW–Madison’s YouTube channel. Shortly after commencement weekend, archived video of the ceremony will be available.

Ceremony program

A printed program will be at each degree candidate’s chair and available for guests at the ceremony. The program agenda, speaker bios, and other ceremony information will be available on our program page closer to the date.

Reading of graduate names

During the winter ceremony, graduate names are read as candidates cross the stage. Each candidate will receive a name card at the Kohl Center with their information printed on it.

Diplomas

Graduates will receive a red diploma folder at the commencement ceremony. The actual diploma will be mailed six to eight weeks after grades are entered to the permanent home address listed in the MyUW Student Center.

Graduate photographs

Photographs will be taken as graduates receive their diploma folder and as they leave the stage. Complimentary proofs will be emailed out approximately 48 hours after the ceremony.

Ceremony etiquette

To create and preserve a memorable experience for graduates and guests, we ask that all attendees adhere to our ceremony etiquette guidelines and decorum.

Staying connected

Check out the latest email updates from commencement by visiting our communications page.

Read latest emails