Q: Are there any items not allowed in the AMSOIL Arena during commencement?
A: Yes. The following items are strictly prohibited: alcohol, bags over 5" x 9" (medically necessary bags excluded), balloons, drones, drugs, and weapons.
Q: How do I check or change the name listed on my diploma?
A: Follow this path: OneStop > Personal Information > Student Record > Update Personal Information > Diploma Name. The name listed on your diploma will be printed in the commencement program, though only your first and last name will be read aloud as you cross the stage.
Q: Is there a commencement rehearsal for students?
A: No, there is no rehearsal for students.
Q: Do I have to buy a cap, gown, and tassel?
A: Regalia is not strictly required, but almost all students wear a cap and gown. They can be purchased on campus at the Grad Fair (March 17, 2027) or at the UMD Bookstore before the ceremony (recommended prior to May 7). A limited quantity will be available at the DECC on commencement day.
Q: How and when do I get my honor medallion or military cord?
A: Students earning Latin Honors, Departmental Honors, University Honors, or a Red, White, and Blue Military cord can pick up their items at Kirby Commencement in mid-April or on Commencement Day prior to lining up. Students will be notified via email if they have an honors cord to pick up prior to Kirby Commencement.
Q: Can I decorate my cap?
A: Yes, students are welcome to decorate their caps.
Q: What time do doors open for the ceremony?
A: Doors open 1.5 hours before the ceremony starts for both guests and students.
Q: Are tickets required for commencement, and do they cost anything?
A: Tickets are required for undergraduate ceremonies but not for the graduate (masters & doctoral) ceremony; however, for both undergraduate and graduate programs, the event is completely free of charge.
Q: How do I get a commencement program?
A: Programs are available for free at the door for guests. Participating students will have a program placed directly on their chair inside AMSOIL Arena.
Q: What is the DECC bag policy?
A: Only the following bags are permitted inside the venue:
- Small bags not exceeding 5" x 9" (clutch purses, wristlets, wallets)
- Medically necessary bags (including breast pumps)
- Diaper bags for individuals or families with children under age 3
Note: All guests and permissible bags are subject to security inspection prior to entry. Security personnel reserve the right to confiscate prohibited items or deny entry to guests who decline inspection.
Q: Where do students meet their guests after the ceremony ends?
A: Students will exit through the Zamboni doors at the front of the arena. They can meet guests in the DECC Arena (where students originally lined up) or upstairs near the DECC Ticket Office.
Q: What is the difference between graduation and commencement?
A:
- Graduation: The official administrative process of submitting your degree application, completing all academic requirements, and clearing financial obligations to have your degree formally awarded/conferred.
- Commencement: The ceremonial event honoring graduating students. Participation in commencement celebrates your achievement but does not officially guarantee degree conferral.
Q: Are there additional parking locations besides the DECC lot?
A: Yes, please see the DECC website page for additional parking options at the Canal Park/Downtown Parking web page.
Q: Where is accessible parking located at the DECC?
A: Accessible parking spaces are located on the surface lot near Entrance B (City Side Convention Center). Additional accessible spaces are available on all levels of the parking ramp, with an elevator in the northeast corner. However, please note the entrance to the ceremony will be entrance E.
Q: Where do students enter the venue?
A: Students enter at Entrance D (Business Office/Ticket Lobby).
Q: Where can I find maps and parking information?
A: For detailed venue layouts and parking directions, visit the DECC Maps and Floor Plans page.
Q: How do I get a diploma cover if I didn't attend commencement or earned multiple degrees?
A: If you did not attend the ceremony or need an extra diploma cover for an additional degree, please fill out the 2027 Diploma Cover Request form.
Potential FAQs to add later when details are clearer:
Q: What should I do if I forgot to RSVP or am unsure if I registered?
A: You should still attend commencement. Staff will issue you a name card so you can participate and walk across the stage.