Commencement
- On this Page
- Need to Know
- Schedule & Details
- Parking
- Before the Ceremony
- FAQs
What you need to know
Attending Commencement does not guarantee graduation.
The Commencement Ceremony is a symbolic way to celebrate the completion of your academic career at Penn State, however graduation is a separate records process which takes place after the commencement ceremony.
Important venue information
In line with the best practices at all University Park commencement locations, Eisenhower Auditorium will utilize walk-through metal detectors for commencements on Saturday, May 4, 2024, at its entrances and restrictions on the size and type of bag that may be carried into the venue for commencement. If you exit the facility at any time during the ceremony or prior to the ceremony, you will need to reenter via the metal detectors.
Permitted Bags at Eisenhower Auditorium
- Bags that are clear plastic, vinyl or PVC and do not exceed 12” x 6” x 12”.
- One-gallon clear plastic freezer bag (Ziploc bag or similar).
- Small clutch bags, with or without a handle or strap, that do not exceed 4.5”x 6.5” x 1".
All media representatives with necessary bags and equipment must enter the front entrance to have each item inspected prior to entering the building.
For additional information related to bag policies, please see the FAQ section below.
Arrival and entrance for friends and families
All guests will enter through the front doors of Eisenhower Auditorium. Guests who require assistance or accommodations should seek out a Guest Services Representative or visit the Guest Services Kiosk to the right side of the lobby. You’re encouraged to arrive early.
Commencement 2024
Saturday, May 4, 2024
Eisenhower Auditorium (Please note the Eisenhower bag policy in the FAQs below.)
All Arts and Architecture commencement events will be held in-person at the University Park campus.
Pre-Ceremony Reception
Korner Tower Terrace to Eisenhower Auditorium
10:30–11:30am – Graduates along with their guests are invited to attend this reception hosted by B. Stephen Carpenter II, Michael J. and Aimee Rusinko Kakos Dean in the College of Arts and Architecture. Guests will enjoy light fare, music and fellowship with classmates, faculty, and staff prior to the ceremony.
Procession
Korner Tower Terrace to Eisenhower Auditorium
11:30am – Line Up
11:45am – Step Off – Led by faculty and accompanied by music from an A&A student ensemble, graduates and their families will walk together from the Korner Tower Terrace down Curtin Road to Eisenhower Auditorium.
Commencement Ceremony
11:30am – Doors open; seating begins.
1:00pm – Graduation ceremony begins (approximately 90 minutes in length).
Guests enter the building and are seated in the auditorium. Seating will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Tickets are not required and there is not a guest limit for the A&A ceremony. Admittance into the Auditorium will be permitted beginning 90 minutes prior to the start of the ceremony.
Penn State Commencement Website
Parking for Commencement
The Eisenhower Parking Deck is located directly behind Eisenhower Auditorium. Parking will be free for Commencement Saturday. There are ample ADA spaces and elevator access on each level of the deck.
If there are any questions, contact the Transportation Services Office at 814-865-1436 or email at parking@psu.edu
Before the ceremony
Apply for graduation
The university needs to know you intend to complete your degree/graduate, and attend commencement activities. So students are asked to apply for graduate at the very beginning of their final semester in Lionpath. If you plan to graduate, and have not applied, talk to your academic adviser as soon as possible – they can help check that you’re ready to complete your degree and help you submit your application.
Check your grades
Final grades are due in the Spring semester after Commencement. Be aware of how the grades you will receive will affect your progress towards completing your degree. You cannot graduate with deferred or otherwise incomplete grades, so take the time to talk with your professors about a plan to resolve any issues before commencement.
Watch for commencement related information from both the University and the College
Beginning in mid to late March keep an eye on your PSU email for commencement related correspondence. There will be a few tasks you need to complete to prepare for the ceremony before the end of the semester.
Order your cap and gown or verify the appropriate academic dress for military commissions
Academic dress (cap and gown) or the uniform of one of the U.S. Armed Forces is expected at commencement.
Students may order and purchase their caps and gowns from the Penn State Bookstore the website: Regalia | Penn State Official Bookstore. If you need assistance, please contact the Penn State Bookstore at 814-863-3589 or 863-2512
- Bachelor’s regalia is approximately $57.00
- Bachelor’s regalia with announcement is approximately $69.50
Visit the Academic Affairs Office (104 Borland) to complete your Senior Survey
What are your plans after graduation? Will you enter the job market, travel, continue your education…A&A wants to know! During finals week, stop in to 104 Borland and take a short online survey. While here, you can pick-up your name card as well as any academic honor cords for commencement, receive a small gift from the Penn State Alumni Association and enter your name in a drawing for a $50 gift card. Keep an eye on your Penn State email for more specific information about when the surveys will be available.