Graduate Checklist
The countdown to Commencement is on! Review the following to-do items for smooth sailing into Commencement and beyond.
Before the ceremony
Apply to graduate
Students must apply for graduation to attend the ceremony and receive their diploma. Graduates are required to complete the application, even if they miss the deadline for their name to be listed in the online program.
Apply to graduate deadline: Friday, March 20
Rent your cap and gown
All graduates must wear academic regalia to participate in the ceremony. To order the attire that matches your intended degree, place your order through the University Book Store.
Early pricing rental deadline: Friday, April 3
Regular pricing rental deadline: Tuesday, May 5
Friday grads, provide your name pronunciation
To participate in Commencement, Doctoral, MFA, and Medical Professional degree candidates must complete a phonetic pronunciation for how they would like their name read at Friday’s ceremony. Check your email for an invitation from Namecoach with instructions.
Namecoach deadline: Tuesday, May 5
Confirm your diploma address
Diplomas will be mailed to your diploma address in your MyUW Student Center, six to eight weeks after final grades are reported. View the step-by-step instructions on viewing/editing your addresses.
Sign up for updates
Make sure you have the latest info and details! Sign up for updates to ensure you don’t miss anything.
Request accessibility accommodations
If you are a graduate in need of accessibility accommodations, please email the Commencement office directly to make arrangements for a celebratory experience. Guests needing assistance or accommodations can visit our accessibility resources to learn more.
Resolve outstanding holds
Forget about those outstanding library fines? Some types of holds will prevent your diploma and transcripts from being available until they’re resolved. Check MyUW Student Center for any holds, and follow the corresponding instructions.
Set up your student loan exit interview
All students that borrowed an institutional loan from UW–Madison must complete an exit interview. Ensure your diploma is mailed to you and set up your interview through the Office of Student Financial Aid.
Sign up for graduate photos
Say cheese! Book a photo session to commemorate your time at UW–Madison. A photo registration form will be available closer to the ceremony date so day-of portraits can be emailed to you.
Get involved with your Senior Class Office
Get to know your Senior Class Office by attending Commencement-themed events or make a donation to the senior class gift!
Review ceremony logistics
When do I arrive? Where do I go? What about my guests? And parking? Find answers to all of these questions — and everything else you need to know about planning — on the ceremony details page.
The big event
Attend the ceremony
The Spring 2026 Commencement planning guide includes event details such as the number of guests you can bring to the ceremony. (Answer: as many as you want!)
Celebrate
Each school, college, division, program, or community space may host its own event during Commencement weekend. Check to see when the special recognition event for your major or program will be hosted.
Share your excitement!
This is a very big deal, graduates. Spend time celebrating with friends and family, and make sure to use #UWGrad on your social media posts to share with us!
After the ceremony
Take the graduate survey
Your future is bright, Badgers! Please take a few minutes to share your post-graduate plans. For more information, view the Career Services website.
Return your gown
Return your attire to the University Book Store after use.
Return Deadline: May 13 at 7 p.m.
Snag your alumni perks
You earned it, Badger grads! Get a 2-Year Complimentary Wisconsin Alumni Association Membership, and don’t miss the limited time opportunity to save 75% on a Wisconsin Union Lifetime Membership.
Stay connected
Badgers are social creatures. No matter where you end up make sure to stay in touch!