Student Commencement Guide
Congratulations, graduates! Everything you need to know about preparing for your ceremony, arriving at AMSOIL Arena, crossing the stage, and receiving your diploma is right here.
Ceremony Schedule & Arrival Times
All commencement ceremonies take place at AMSOIL Arena inside the Duluth Entertainment Convention Center (DECC) (located in downtown Duluth, off-campus).
Graduate Ceremony (Master's & Doctoral) - Friday, May 7, 2027
- Doors Open: 4:30 PM
- Name Card Pick-up: By 5:00 PM (Ground Level, Paulucci Hall)
- Line Up: 5:30 PM
- Ceremony Starts: 6:00 PM
Undergraduate Ceremonies - Saturday, May 8, 2027
10:00 AM Ceremony — College of Education and Human Service Professions & Labovitz School of Business & Economics
- Doors Open: 8:30 AM
- Name Card Pick-Up: By 9:00 AM (Paulucci Hall, Ground Level)
- Line Up: 9:30 AM
- Ceremony Starts: 10:00 AM
3:00 PM Ceremony — College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences & Swenson College of Science and Engineering
- Doors Open: 1:30 PM
- Name Card Pick-Up: By 2:00 AM (Paulucci Hall, Ground Level)
- Line Up: 2:30 PM
- Ceremony Starts: 3:00 PM
Arrival, Parking & Venue Rules
DECC Parking & Entrance
- Parking Rate: $10 at the DECC surface lot/ramp.
- Alternative Parking: Downtown Duluth ramps connect directly to the DECC via the indoor Skywalk system.
- Accessible Parking: Available near Entrance B (City Side) and on all levels of the parking ramp (elevator in NE corner).
- Entrance Location: Please enter via Entrance D (circular drop off area).
Helpful Links:
DECC Bag Policy
To ensure fast entry, please follow the venue bag policy:
- Allowed: Small bags/clutches (max size 5" x 9"), medically necessary bags, and diaper bags (for children under 3).
- Personal Belongings: There is no secure storage area. Please leave coats and purses with your guests.
Regalia & Preparation
- Caps & Gowns: Cap and gown are encouraged and available at the UMD Bookstore prior to commencement. A very limited stock is available day-of at the UMD Bulldog Shop near the Box Office.
- Honors Cords & Medallions: Pick up cords/medallions in Paulucci Hall during name card check-in if you did not receive them at Kirby Commencement.
- Guest Tickets: After you RSVP, your claimed digital tickets will be sent to your email. You are responsible for forwarding these tickets to your guests before the ceremony. All guests (including children) must present an official digital ticket to be admitted into the venue—no exceptions.
Day-of Check-In & Crossing the Stage
- Check-In (Paulucci Hall): Report to Paulucci Hall to pick up your name card. Do not lose your card—you will hand it to the reader on stage.
- Seating: Your color-coded name card (Maroon or Gold) indicates which side of the arena you will line up on and sit.
- Crossing the Stage:
- Graduate Students: You will carry your hood over your arm during the processional and be hooded on stage before receiving your diploma cover.
- Undergraduate Students: You will be called by college and guided up the stage ramp to cross, receive your diploma cover, and exit for official photos.
- Accessibility Needs: If you require special seating or assistance crossing the stage, email [email protected].
Diplomas, Programs & Photos
- Diplomas: You will receive a diploma cover on stage. Official diplomas are mailed approximately 3 months after final degree clearances. Please check MyU to clear any account holds that could delay mailing.
- Commencement Program: A commemorative program will be placed on your chair.
Photos: GradImages will email photo proofs directly to your UMD email, or you can search for "University of Minnesota – Duluth" on the GradImages website about 2 weeks after the ceremony. There is no obligation to purchase.
Questions about degree requirements or RSVP? Contact One Stop Student Services at [email protected] or 218-726-8000.
For additional questions or information, please see the frequently asked questions (FAQ) tab at the top of this webpage or contact Jenaya Crestik at [email protected] or 218-726-6214.