Family and friends planning to attend Commencement celebrations can find answers to frequently asked questions below. Please check back for updates as Commencement approaches.
Note that all guest information will also be shared with graduates via email. Guests may also sign up to receive Commencement information here.
General
What is the schedule for Commencement?
Commencement celebrations start early the week of May 6 and culminate with the University-Wide Commencement Ceremony in the evening of Saturday, May 11, at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium.
College and school ceremonies (also called convocations), where graduates are recognized individually, take place at various times and in various locations around campus.
A full schedule of Commencement activities will be shared in February.
What’s the difference between “college and school convocations” and the “university-wide ceremony”?
UT Austin’s 18 degree-granting colleges and schools host their own graduation ceremonies (also called “convocations”) to honor the accomplishments of their specific degree candidates (or “graduates”). This ceremony is where degree candidates’ names are read aloud as they cross the stage and are recognized individually for their accomplishments.
These convocations are organized by each individual college or school and take place on various days at various times and at different locations around the UT Austin campus. Some may require tickets for guests.
The University-Wide Commencement Ceremony is hosted by the President and is the formal ceremony at which graduates of all colleges and schools at UT Austin are recognized as a group. The ceremony includes remarks from university leadership, the student body president, and the commencement speaker, as well as the official conferral of degrees by the university president. The ceremony begins with a procession of all graduates, followed by faculty and university leadership. It concludes with a fireworks display.
Visiting Campus
I’m visiting from out of town. Where should I stay while in Austin?
The Austin area offers an abundance of lodging options for visitors. Visit Austin has information to help you plan your trip. Note that Commencement brings thousands of visitors to the city; we recommend making lodging plans sooner rather than later.
I'm visiting from a foreign country and need documentation for a visa application. What are next steps?
TEXAS Global has instructions regarding documentation for visa applications. Note that the University does not provide letters of invitation.
A member of my party has mobility or other accommodation requests. Where can I find more information?
UT Austin will strive to ensure that all guests can participate fully in the Commencement celebrations regardless of accessibility needs. All parking garages have ADA parking (valid placard or license plate required) and elevators.
For college and school ceremony accommodation requests, please contact the relevant college or school.
For the university-wide ceremony, please visit the Accessibility Information for Guests page for more information and appropriate contacts.
How can I stay updated on any changes while on campus?
Sign up for text message alerts regarding schedules, parking advisories, and weather alerts throughout the Commencement festivities. Text UTGRAD24 to 888-777 to sign up. All phone numbers will be removed after Commencement.
Where can I park while visiting campus?
Parking information specific to college and school ceremonies and the university-wide ceremony will be available in April.
University-Wide Commencement Ceremony (Saturday, May 11, DKR-TMS)
Do guests need tickets to attend the university-wide ceremony?
Guests do not need tickets to attend the university-wide ceremony. Some college or school ceremonies will require tickets; graduates will receive information regarding this ticketing process.
How long is the university-wide ceremony?
The ceremony lasts approximately 2 hours. Note that this is only an estimate, as the actual length is dependent on many variables.
Are individual names read at the university-wide ceremony?
Names are read at the college and school convocations. At the university-wide ceremony, graduates are recognized as a group by the dean of their college or school.
Will concessions be available for purchase at DKR-TMS?
Yes, concession booths and team stores will be open during the university-wide ceremony.
What prohibited items do guests need to be aware of for the university-wide ceremony?
The safety of guests and graduates is the top priority for UT Austin, and there are security protocols in place to ensure this. Please visit the Security page for restrictions and prohibited items, bag sizes, and other details.
How can guests watch the university-wide ceremony if they don't attend in-person?
The University-Wide Commencement Ceremony is webcast here on the Commencement website and broadcast live on Longhorn Network. A recording of the university-wide ceremony will be available a few weeks after the event.
Miscellaneous
What is the inclement weather policy?
As always, inclement weather could be an issue. Commencement activities will continue as long as it is safe to do so. Should any activities be postponed or rescheduled, this will be communicated via the text system (sign up by texting UTGRAD24 to 888-777) and displayed prominently on the university homepage, Commencement website, and university social media accounts.