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Frequently Asked Questions

We look forward to celebrating the completion of your degree at UHD’s 77th Commencement Ceremony. Please review the information below to help you prepare for the ceremony.

When is the Commencement Ceremony?

UHD’s 77th Commencement Ceremony honoring our undergraduate and graduate students on Monday, December 16 at NRG Arena. The Fall Commencement Ceremony is reserved for our Summer and Fall 2024 graduates only.

What time does the ceremony start?

There will be two ceremonies split by academic colleges, please find your college below to see your ceremony time.

First Ceremony 1 p.m.

Colleges Represented:

      • Marilyn Davies College of Business
      • College of Sciences and Technology

Second Ceremony 5:30 p.m.

Colleges Represented:

      • College of Humanities and Social Sciences
      • College of Public Service


Will I need a ticket for the ceremony? Will my guests need a ticket?

Tickets are not required for graduating students at the UHD Commencement Ceremony. Guests will need a ticket to enter NRG Arena.

Are individual names read at the ceremony?

Names are read in alphabetical order at the ceremony. Students will be given a walk-card that will help put them in order. Should you have concerns about the pronunciation of your name during the ceremony, you can visit the Name Calling Table at Commencement during check-in.

How long is the ceremony?

The ceremony lasts about three hours. This time can vary based on the number of students in attendance and remarks from speakers.

Indicating participation requires a commitment to remain in your seat until the conclusion of the commencement ceremony. Ushers on the floor will not allow you to leave the ceremony early.

Am I able to participate in the ceremony if I do not meet graduation requirements?

No, if you have failed courses needed for your degree this term, extended your coursework past this semester, or in any other way are not able to satisfy your academic requirements in this current term, you will not be allowed to participate in the Commencement Ceremony on December 16 and will be turned away. Please visit with your Academic Success Coordinator to ensure you are in good academic standing and are on track to receive your degree at the conclusion of the fall term.

Are guests allowed to attend the Commencement Ceremony?

Yes! We look forward to celebrating your accomplishments with your family and friends. Each graduate will have an opportunity to request up to five tickets for the ceremony. You will only be allowed to request tickets for the ceremony you will be participating in. There is no cost for UHD Commencement tickets.

More information about ticket requests and guest accessibility will be shared soon.

Will the ceremony be available online?

Yes, the Commencement Ceremony will be streamed live. You can view the steam on UHD's website.

How do I order regalia for graduation?

Regalia​ for the Fall 2024 Commencement Ceremony may be purchased from the UHD bookstore.​ The bookstore hours are Monday through Thursday - 10 am to 4 pm and Friday 10 am - 1 pm (closed Saturday and Sunday).

Students will NOT be able to purchase regalia or obtain Honor cords at NRG Arena on the day of the ceremony.

What side is the tassel on?

Tassels should be on your right side and will be moved to the left once degrees are conferred at the ceremony.

Honor cord distribution

Students receiving honor cords will be contacted by their Academic Advising Center.

As a graduate student, will I be hooded at the commencement ceremony?

No, all graduate students will be invited to participate in a hooding ceremony hosted by the Provost's Office. You will be receiving information in your GatorMail. Visit the Provost Office website to learn more.