Frequently Asked Questions

We look forward to celebrating the completion of your degree at UHD’s 80th Commencement Ceremony. Please review the information below to help you prepare for the ceremony.

Ceremony Details

When is the Commencement Ceremony?
The UHD 80th Commencement Ceremony will be held on Friday, May 8, 2026, at the Fertitta Center. This ceremony is reserved for Spring 2026 graduates only.

What time does the ceremony start?
There will be two ceremonies split by academic college, please find your college below to see your ceremony time.

 

 

How long is the ceremony?
The ceremony lasts approximately three hours. The duration may vary depending on the number of students and remarks from speakers. Graduates are required to remain in their seats until the ceremony concludes. Ushers on the floor will not allow early departures.

Are individual names read at the ceremony?
Yes. Graduates will receive a walk card that the name caller will use during announcements. If you are concerned about the pronunciation of your name, visit the Name Calling Table during check-in.

Graduate Information

How do I order regalia for graduation?
Regalia may be purchased from the UHD Bookstore, open Monday through Thursday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Regalia and honor cords will not be available at the Fertitta Center on the day of the ceremony.

What side is the tassel on?
Tassels should be on your right side and will be moved to the left once degrees are conferred at the ceremony.

Honor cord distribution
Students receiving honor cords will be contacted by their Academic Advising Center. 

Will I (the graduate) need a ticket for the ceremony? 
Graduating students do not need tickets to attend the ceremony.

As a Graduate student, will I be hooded at the commencement ceremony?
No, all graduate students will be invited to participate in the Graduate Hooding Ceremony hosted by the Provost’s Office. You will receive information in your GatorMail.

Am I able to participate in the ceremony if I do not meet graduation requirements?
No. Only students who have met all academic requirements for Spring 2026 may participate. Students who have not completed required coursework will not be permitted to enter the ceremony. Please consult your Academic Advisor to ensure you are on track to graduate.

Where do graduates park?
Graduates should park in the TDECU Stadium Garage, located on Holman Street across from the Fertitta Center or in the Blue Lot south of Elgin St. The cost to park is $20 per car, per entrance into the garage. UH is cashless and will only accept major credit cards as payment. 

From there, you’ll walk to the Alumni Center for graduate check-in.

It’s a good idea to arrive early to allow time for parking and walking, especially with traffic and construction around the venue.

Guest Information

Are guests allowed to attend the Commencement Ceremony?
Yes. Each graduating student will receive six guest tickets. Everyone age three and older must have a ticket to enter the Fertitta Center. Children age two and under must sit on a parent’s or guardian’s lap. Seating is general admission and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Saving seats is not permitted. There is no charge for commencement tickets.

Are guests required to have a ticket to enter the Fertitta Center?
Yes, guests are required to have a ticket to enter the arena.

Ticketing Overview:

• • • Each graduating student can reserve up to six guest tickets for their ceremony.
    • All guests, except lap children under 2 years of age, will need a ticket to enter the Fertitta Center.
    • Graduating students do not need a ticket.
    • Guest seating will be available on a first-come, first-served basis and is not assigned.
    • Tickets are digital and will be delivered electronically upon reservation.

For more information, please visit our Guest Ticket webpage.

When can guests enter the Fertitta Center?
Guests are allowed to enter one hour before the ceremony begins. For the first ceremony, guest entry begins at 9 a.m. For the second ceremony, guest entry begins at 2 p.m.

Where should guests park?
Guests should park in the TDECU Stadium Garage, located on Holman Street across from the Fertitta Center or in the Blue Lot south of Elgin St. The cost to park is $20 per car, per entrance into the garage. UH is cashless and will only accept major credit cards as payment. 
Is the Fertitta Center accessible for guests with disabilities?
Yes. ADA-accessible parking, restrooms, concessions, and seating are available. Closed captioning and ASL interpretation will be available both in person and via the livestream. Guests requiring mobility assistance should bring their own or rented wheelchairs or walkers. Accessible parking is located on the first floor of the Stadium Garage at 3874 Holman Street, directly across from the Fertitta Center entrance.

Venue and Security
Fertitta Center
3422 Cullen Blvd
Houston, TX 77204 
View driving instructions.  

Will there be security screenings?
Yes. All guests and graduates will undergo security screenings, including metal detectors and bag checks. Bags must not exceed 12” x 6” x 12”. Backpacks, purses, and diaper bags are not permitted, except for medically necessary items after inspection.

The following items will be allowed inside the Fertitta Center:

• • • Clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bags no larger than 12” x 6” x 12”
    • 1-gallon clear plastic freezer bags
    • Small clutch purses no larger than 4.5” x 6.5”

Exceptions will be made for medically necessary items after proper inspection at the doors by arena personnel.

What items are prohibited inside the Fertitta Center?
Prohibited items include weapons, alcohol, outside food or drinks, cameras with lenses longer than 8 inches, backpacks, personal transportation devices, laser pointers, and noisemakers.

Will food be available for purchase?
Yes. Snacks such as candy, popcorn, chips, and drinks will be available. Outside food and drinks are not permitted. Water stations will be provided for students.

Will the ceremony be available online?
Yes, the Commencement Ceremony will be streamed live. You can view the steam on UHD’s Commencement website.