What to expect at a graduation ceremony: A student’s guide

Commencement is the official celebration of your hard work, growth and the start of your next chapter.

A graduation ceremony (also known as commencement) is more than just walking across a stage. It’s a symbol of achievement, community and Bearcat pride — a moment to reflect on how far you’ve come and to celebrate surrounded by classmates, family and faculty who helped shape your journey.

If you’ve never attended a college commencement before, you might be wondering what actually happens during a graduation ceremony.

Here’s what you can expect at a University of Cincinnati commencement:

• Processional: Graduates enter the arena or stadium to live music, often “Pomp and Circumstance,” or, at UC, our alma mater.

• Opening remarks: UC leadership, faculty and special guests welcome graduates and their families.

• Keynote address: An inspiring message from a notable UC alumnus, community leader or university president.

• Conferral of degrees: Graduates walk across the stage as their names are read and degrees are officially conferred.

• Turning of the tassel: A symbolic gesture marking your transition from student to graduate.

• Recessional: Graduates exit the ceremony.

The event is both formal and emotional so you can expect tears, laughter and an overwhelming sense of accomplishment (as you should).

After your graduation ceremony, take time to celebrate your outstanding achievement! Once you’ve walked across the stage and completed your exams, several official steps follow before your degree is finalized. 

First, instructors submit final grades, and your college verifies that you’ve met all degree requirements. 

Once that process is complete, the Registrar’s Office posts the degree to your record — this is called degree certification. 

After certification, you’ll receive a CeCredential (a secure, verifiable electronic diploma) and your ceremonial diploma in the mail (typically four to five weeks later). In the meantime, you can verify your degree using an official transcript or a degree verification letter.

UC Resource: Find everything you need to prepare for commencement, day-of details and post-grad instructions on the UC Commencement page.

Each year, the University of Cincinnati celebrates its graduates with multiple commencement ceremonies, recognizing students from each college and degree level.

Undergraduate, master’s and doctoral ceremonies are held separately to give every Bearcat their moment to shine.

Be sure to visit the official UC Commencement website for your college’s assigned ceremony time, arrival instructions, parking maps, ticketing information and livestream links for family and friends who can’t attend in person. It’s also the best place to check for updates, weather plans and accessibility options.

Most UC commencement ceremonies last about 90 minutes to two hours, depending on the number of graduates and speakers.

Arrive early, allow time for traffic and parking, and plan to stay for the entire ceremony to celebrate your classmates’ achievements as well as your own walk across the stage!

Preparation starts long before the big day. Here’s how to make sure you’re ready to walk with confidence:

1. Apply for graduation early. Verify your degree requirements are met and no holds remain on your record.

2. Order your regalia. Cap, gown, tassel and hood (for graduate students) are available through the UC Bookstore.

3. Claim your tickets. Guest tickets are required for most ceremonies; availability and quantity vary by venue.

4. Invite your guests. Share parking info, arrival times and accessibility details with family and friends.

5. Check your UC email. Official commencement updates, parking passes and lineup instructions will arrive there.

UC graduates with questions about student accessibility at the ceremony should contact the Commencement Office by email as early as possible, at least two weeks prior to the ceremony.

College graduation is full of traditions that celebrate your hard work and mark the start of a new chapter. You’ll see students dressed in caps and gowns, often decorated with personal messages or inside jokes.

Your tassels will start on the right and are moved to the left when degrees are officially given — a small but powerful moment that symbolizes your transition from student to graduate. 

Many schools also include academic regalia colors, special cords for honors and the classic tossing of caps to end the ceremony on a high note. These traditions connect generations of graduates and make the day feel truly unforgettable.

Graduation day is finally here! Before you head out to celebrate, take a few minutes to make sure you’ve got everything covered. From your cap and gown to your camera roll, this quick checklist will help you stay organized and ready for your big UC moment. 

Wondering what you should wear to your college graduation? Comfort and polish are key.

• Under the gown: Think business casual: a simple dress, dress shirt or slacks. Avoid bulky layers.

• Shoes: Choose something comfortable and easy to walk in (especially if your ceremony is at Nippert Stadium).

• Regalia: Wear your UC cap flat (not tilted), tassel on the right — you’ll move it to the left once your degree is awarded.

• Accessories: Keep jewelry minimal and secure your cords, medallions or stoles neatly.

Pro tip: If it’s an outdoor ceremony, check the weather ahead of time — bring a poncho or rain jacket just in case.

Commencement is both a celebration and a formal university event. Keep these etiquette tips in mind:

• Arrive early and follow seating or lineup instructions.

• Silence your phone during the ceremony.

• Stay for the entire event — leaving early disrupts the processional.

• Celebrate respectfully; no air horns, banners, or confetti.

• Applaud for everyone, not just your friends!

Remember, every graduate deserves their moment.

A few Bearcat-approved tips to make your day smooth and memorable:

• Check your UC email for important day-of ceremony details.

• Bring safety pins or clips to secure your gown, cap and cords.

• Leave belongings at home or with your guests.

• Practice your walk and handshake. 

• Remember to stay hydrated and take deep breaths. Pre-walk jitters are normal.

• Have your outfit planned and ready to go.

• Decide on post-ceremony plans and make reservations for restaurants early.

• Most importantly, take it all in — this is your day.

FYI: Nippert Stadium and Fifth Third Arena have a clear bag rule in place for all events. Make sure you review the Approved Item Policy before attending your ceremony. Strollers and balloons are not permitted in the venue.

Beyond the photos, speeches, and caps flying through the air, UC’s graduation ceremony is a reminder that once a Bearcat, always a Bearcat.

It’s the culmination of late-night study sessions, lifelong friendships and the resilience that defines the Bearcat spirit. Whether you’re stepping into graduate school, a new job or a completely new adventure, this milestone celebrates everything you’ve achieved.

For full UC Commencement 2025 details including parking, ticketing, livestream links and college-specific schedules visit the official University of Cincinnati Commencement page.

Congratulations, Class of 2025! You’ll always be Bearcats for life.