The Graduate Commencement Ceremony recognizes recipients of Master’s, Education Specialist, and Doctoral degrees. This ceremony is separate from undergraduate commencements, which are reserved for bachelor’s degree recipients.

Graduates are expected to participate in the ceremony corresponding to their graduation term. In some cases, such as for summer graduates or due to scheduling conflicts, students may request to attend a different term's ceremony. Each graduate may only participate in one commencement ceremony.

All students must RSVP to confirm their attendance at the ceremony. The RSVP form helps the Graduate College coordinate the event effectively. [Submit your RSVP here.] 

Graduates from the Center for Health Sciences completing their programs in the fall are welcome to attend the Stillwater Graduate Commencement. An RSVP is required for participation. 

Graduates and faculty should arrive at Gate 1 South of Boone Pickens Stadium between 3:30 PM and 4:00 PM. Upon arrival, graduates will receive their pre-printed name cards and will be directed to Gallagher-Iba Arena for the ceremony. Faculty marshals will guide graduates to their seats. 

Each graduate will receive a name card at check-in. The name card includes how your name will be announced and serves as a point of contact for receiving professional photos after the event. Blank name cards will be available if needed. 

Graduates must arrive wearing the appropriate academic regalia. Master’s degree candidates should wear their hoods upon arrival. Doctoral candidates should carry their hoods on their left arm and will be hooded by their advisor. If the advisor cannot attend, a university official will assist. Only members of the OSU Graduate Faculty may participate in the hooding of doctoral students. 

Doctoral students must coordinate with their advisor to meet prior to entry at Gate 1 South Boone Pickens Stadium. Students and advisors must remain together for proper seating during the ceremony. 

Graduates will find a printed program in their seats. While on stage, each student will receive a diploma cover, a lithograph, and an invitation from the OSU Alumni Association. After the walk, graduates return to their original seats and remain there for the rest of the ceremony. All graduates will exit the arena row by row during the recessional. 

Only mobile phones are allowed inside the stadium and arena. Please leave purses, bags, and other personal items in your vehicle. No storage will be provided. 

Guests are not allowed on the arena floor to take pictures. Professional photographers will capture the ceremony and will reach out to graduates using the address listed on their name cards. 

OSU provides accessible seating, sign language interpretation, and other services for individuals with disabilities. Handicap parking is available in Lot 5A across from Gallagher-Iba Arena. Elevators are located on the north and south sides of the building. For mobility assistance, please contact Lory Ferguson in the Graduate College.