Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between Commencement and Convocation?

Commencement is an ASU Ceremony for all graduates and the Fulton Schools Convocation is a special ceremony to celebrate Fulton Schools graduates only. You may attend one or both.

The Fulton Schools will hold two convocation ceremonies: Graduate and Undergraduate. You cross the stage at your Fulton Schools Convocation ceremony, not at the ASU Commencement.

Learn more about Commencement vs. Convocation.

Are tickets required? No.

Tickets are not required. You may bring the whole family!

What time do I check in?

Check-in varies for undergraduate and graduate ceremonies:

• 1:00 p.m – Graduate ceremony check-in
• 6:00 p.m. – Undergraduate ceremony check-in

What time can guests enter?

Guests may enter when check-in begins.

What are the expectations for students at Convocation?

Our goal is to create an environment that is joyous, safe and respectful for our students and their families who have invested significantly to reach this milestone and attend the ceremonies. To that end and in compliance with university policies, there are expectations required of all FSE graduates.

Read the student expectations

Do I have to wear ASU regalia? Yes.

An ASU cap, gown and other degree-specific attire is required, and is to be worn over your own clothing, which is also required. Online ordering with a discount is available at the Online Grad Fair Oct. 4–18, 2024.

All four Sun Devil Campus Stores will have in-store regalia purchases October 1 until the day of graduation.

Get specifics about purchasing regalia online and in person.

Carry in your regalia. Students should carry their regalia into the event venue and put it on after going through security.

Wear it well! Learn more about dressing for graduation.

For questions about your graduation gear, see the Herff Jones ASU FAQs or email [email protected]. For general ASU graduation questions, see the ASU ceremonies FAQs or visit graduation.asu.edu.

How do I get my honor cords?

If you are an undergraduate and your final GPA is over 3.4, you can pick up honor cords at any University Registrar Services location. Online students, contact the registrar’s office to have your cords mailed to you.

Can I decorate my mortarboard? Yes, please do!

Share photos or video of your decorated cap on social media or upload your image to be included in an online gallery and be considered for a fabulous Fulton Schools swag package!

Be sure to tag us! #ASUGrad and #ASUEngineering

Are masks required? No.

Masks are not required. If interested, you may review ASU’s face cover policy and learn more about ASU’s COVID-19 precautions.

Will there be handshaking at the ceremony?

No. To make the ceremony as safe as possible, handshakes will not be part of the ceremony.

Will a photo be taken when I cross the stage?

Yes. Photographers will be present to take your photo at a designated place on stage during the ceremony.

Do I need ID? Yes. Bring your ASU Sun Card.

You will need to have your ASU Sun Card or another state or federally issued photo identification (like a driver’s license) to check in for the ceremony.

Do I have to stay for the whole ceremony? Yes.

You must stay until the end of the ceremony. If you are unable to stay the duration of the event, you need prior approval from the Assistant Director of Special Events.

Do I have to carry my stuff in a clear bag? Yes.

Students and guests entering Convocation venues such as Desert Financial Arena or Mountain America Stadium are asked to comply with the ASU Clear Bag Policy.

In addition to a small clutch or purse for privacy, you are limited to bringing one clear bag, no larger than 12” x 6” x 12” or a one-gallon plastic storage bag into Desert Financial Arena.

Please review the policy page for the most up-to-date information and list of prohibited items. Graduates and guests do not follow the clear bag policy will not be allowed to enter the arena.

Will I get my diploma at the ceremony? No.

Graduates do not receive diplomas at the Engineering Convocation ceremony. Diplomas will be mailed separately six to eight weeks after the commencement ceremony to your permanent address on file at the University Registrar’s Office. For more information, visit students.asu.edu/graduation.

Can I light up my phone during the ceremony?

Show us your screens! During the ceremony, you may turn on your phone screen and wave it in the air to create a party atmosphere.

Where do I park? Is there accessible parking?

Get the latest parking information on the Graduation parking information page.

Where do Deaf and hard-of-hearing guests sit?

Deaf and hard-of-hearing guests will have a reserved area: Section X of Desert Financial Arena and Section 8 in Mountain America Stadium. In addition, live captioning is available for the event. Get captioning information and more on the accessibility and inclusivity page.

I need special accommodations to attend. Where can I get information?

Graduates who require special seating or assistance at University Commencement or any of the college convocation ceremonies should contact the University Ceremonies Office for more information.