Planning Guide for Winter 2026 Ceremony
While we’re several months away from Winter 2026 Commencement, it’s never too early to begin preparing. Graduate candidates and guests are encouraged to review the following instructions for detailed information. If you have questions, please contact us.
Commencement date and location
Doctoral, Law, Medical Professional, Master’s, and Bachelor’s Degree Candidate Ceremony
Date: Sunday, December 13, 2026
Time: 10 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Location: Kohl Center, 601 W Dayton St, Madison, WI 53715
Doors open at 8 a.m. Graduates are asked to be in their seats no later than 9:40 a.m.
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 13. 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 prohibited 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 and seating
Upon arrival, graduates should enter the arena at Gate A or Gate B. Seating is designated by school, college, or degree. Guest seating is general admission, first-come, first-served. More information to come closer to date.
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 the Commencement homepage. Shortly after Commencement weekend, archived video of the ceremony will be available.
Ceremony programs
The program agendas, 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.
Stay connected
Check out the latest email updates from commencement by visiting our communications page.