FAQ

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When is Commencement 2023?

The 150th All-University Commencement Exercises for the Class of 2023 will be on Sunday, May 21, 2023 at 1 pm ET at Nickerson Field, rain or shine.

Are tickets needed for All-University Commencement or the School & College convocations?

There are no tickets or guest limit for the All-University Commencement or the individual school/college convocations. Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis. Tickets may be required for Celebratory Events & Activities.

For the All-University Commencement, the guest seating areas open at 11 am, and it is advisable to arrive at Nickerson Field no later than noon.

What is the difference between the All-University Commencement and the School/College Convocations?

The All-University Commencement will be held Sunday, May 21, 2023 at 1 pm at Nickerson Field; rain or shine.  This ceremony is filled with the traditional pomp and circumstance that is associated with graduation, and all graduating students are welcome to attend. The graduates will be recognized by their school/college, but individual names will not be called. The individual school/college convocation is where students will have their names called and the iconic handshake photo is taken. (Diplomas are mailed to graduates in June/July.)

Can guests attend the All-University Commencement ceremony?

We are pleased to invite families and friends to campus to celebrate the accomplishments of the Class of 2023.

How long is Commencement?

The All-University Commencement ceremony runs approximately 2 hours. The length of the school/college ceremonies varies.

When will the Commencement speaker for the All-University ceremony be announced?

As is Boston University’s tradition, the names of the Commencement Speakers and Honorary Degree Recipients will be announced at the annual Senior Breakfast in May.

What can I bring to the All-University Commencement and Baccalaureate?

Only small and average-size handbags, purses, and camera bags will be allowed. (No large totes, oversized purses, backpacks, large diaper bags, or messenger bags – please do not bring these items to the events.) Bag size is limited to 12″ x 12″ x 6″. All bags will be physically inspected prior to entry. There is no storage available. Please save items such as champagne, balloons, and beach balls for your post-Commencement festivities. Additional information will be available in the weeks before the ceremony.

What is the sustainability plan for Commencement?

Sustainable events management is a campus standard and Commencement is no exception to that. Read about our points of pride on the A Sustainable Commencement page.

Where do students line up for the All-University Commencement?

This information can be found on the Nickerson Field Procession & Line-Up page, which will be published in the spring.

What happens if it rains?

The All-University Commencement ceremony will still happen rain or shine.

Will there be a ceremony specific to my school or college?

Yes, individual schools & colleges hold a convocation ceremony. Contact the coordinator listed for more information.

Where do I get my cap and gown?

Caps & Gowns may be purchased through Barnes & Noble. Updates or alerts about shipping will be noted on the Caps & Gowns page as we receive them.

Where can I park?

Parking in all Boston University lots are free and open from Thursday morning through Monday at 11 am. More information is available on the Parking & Transportation page.

Where can I stay?

The greater Boston area offers a myriad of accommodations for off-campus lodgings. Read more.

Where can I purchase the “handshake photo” from a convocation?

GradImages will be a number of the convocations and will reach out to graduates in April. More information will be found on the Photos & Memorabilia page, which will be available in the spring.

I purchased tickets to A Night at the Pops. How do I retrieve them?

After the ticketing opens in February, information about retrieving your tickets, as well as frequently asked questions, can be found on the Ticket Information page on Eventbrite.

GRADUATES

How do I confirm if I am graduating?

You should contact your school/college commencement coordinator.

I am a dual degree candidate. Which ceremony should I attend?

If you are graduating with a dual degree, you will receive two diplomas. (Diplomas are mailed.) You are more than welcome to attend both convocations, or you can choose to attend only one of the ceremonies.

I am a dual major candidate. Which ceremony should I attend?

If you are graduating with a dual major, you will receive one diploma with both majors listed. (Diplomas are mailed.) You are more than welcome to attend both convocations.

Where do I get my cap and gown?

Caps & Gowns may be purchased through Barnes & Noble.

I’m an international student; my parents may need an invitation letter from the university to get their visa for the Commencement weekend. Where can I get this?

You should reach out to the International Students and Scholars Office. You can apply for a Letter of Invitation with their office and get more information about the process.

How do I get a yearbook or sign up for a photo?

The Yearbook is overseen by the Dean of Students. Sessions will be available to get your senior portrait taken by Lauren Studios. For any questions (such as not receiving yearbook emails, etc.), please contact Lauren Studios by email or call 951-272-8600. See the Yearbook website for more information. You can order a yearbook through Jostens.

When will the “Step on the Seal” photos be offered?

Thanks to the BU Alumni Association, professional photographers will be there to take your photos. Dates and times will be listed on the Photos & Memorabilia page, when available. Make sure to sign the Class of 2023 class banner when you are there!