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 undergraduate and master’s graduates. You may attend one or both. Learn more about Commencement vs. Convocation.

The Fulton Schools PhD Ceremony is a new tradition celebrating our doctoral graduates.

Are tickets required? No.

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

Do I have to wear 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 is available at the Online Grad Fair Feb 10 – March 3. After the Grad Fair you may order regalia online from Herff Jones until April 8. All four Sun Devil Campus Stores will have online ordering (April 8-27) and in-person purchases until the day of graduation.

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 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.

How do I get my medallion for my “With Distinction” recognition?

Students graduating from a master’s degree with a 4.0 cumulative GPA qualify for With Distinction recognition and are eligible to wear a ceremonial medallion at the graduate commencement ceremony. Visit the Registrar’s Graduation page for more information and locations for picking up the medallions prior to the ceremony.

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 you graduating but didn’t register for Fulton Schools Convocation?

You can still participate in the ceremony! Arrive at check-in by 6 p.m. and bring proof that you’ve graduated: A picture of your diploma or screenshot of MyASU showing you applied to graduate will be accepted. Check in is from 6-7 p.m. If you are late to check-in, we may not be able to accommodate your participation.

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.

When do I check in? When do the doors open?

Check in is open from 6-7 p.m. at the Lower South Concourse of Sun Devil Stadium. Check in is alphabetical by last name. Bring your ASU Sun Card for check in and arrive early!

• See an image of the Sun Devil Stadium check-in entrance
• See the check-in area layout

Graduates enter the stadium any time after they check in and must be seated at 7:10 p.m.

Sun Devil Stadium doors will be open to the public at 6 p.m.

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. All graduates in attendance are required to 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 Sun Devil Stadium are asked to comply with the 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 Sun Devil Stadium.

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 stadium.

Will I get my diploma at the ceremony? No.

Graduates do not receive diplomas at the Engineering Convocation ceremony. Diplomas and gifts 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.

What if the weather is bad?

Refer to the Inclement Weather Plan – Sun Devil Stadium for the latest information about inclement weather plans.

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

Deaf and hard-of-hearing guests will have a reserved area: first row of section 8. 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?

Students 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.