Frequently Asked Questions

We look forward to celebrating the completion of your degree at UHD’s 78th Commencement Ceremony. Please review the information below to help you prepare for the ceremony.

When is the Commencement Ceremony?
UHD’s 78th Commencement Ceremony honoring our undergraduate and graduate students on Saturday, May 17 at NRG Stadium. The Spring Commencement Ceremony is reserved for our Spring 2025 graduating students only.

What time does the ceremony start?
There will be one ceremony for all graduating students. The Student Processional will begin promptly at 1:00 p.m.

UHD 78th Commencement Ceremony 
Saturday, May 17, 2025
1:00 p.m. (Start of Student Processional)

When should graduating students arrive? 
NRG Stadium doors will open at 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, May 17.  Students should plan to enter NRG Stadium as close as possible to 11:30 a.m. to prepare for the processional (guided by UHD staff). The ceremony will start on time promptly at 1:00 p.m.

Students and guests can begin to park at NRG Stadium as early as 10:30 a.m. on the day of.  We encourage you to arrive early, and if possible and comfortable, wait in your car. The Kroger Gate entrance will open at 11:30 a.m. and students can begin to line up a bit before then.

What time is graduating student check-in?
Student check-in for the commencement ceremony will start at 11:30 a.m. Graduating students will enter NRG Stadium via the Kroger Entrance and guests will enter via the Ford Gate. There will be directional signs placed around the venue.

Do I have to pay for parking?
Parking will be available at NRG in the Blue Lot. Students and guests should plan to enter NRG Stadium parking through gates 8 and 9 off Kirby Drive. The cost to park is $25 (plus tax) per car, per entrance into the lot. NRG Stadium is cashless and will only accept major credit cards as payment. 

Will I need a ticket for the ceremony? Will my guests need a ticket?
Tickets are not required for students or guests at the UHD Commencement Ceremony.

NRG Security Information and Bag Policy

NRG Stadium Security Checks
All guests and graduating students will enter NRG Stadium and undergo security screenings – bag checks and metal detectors. Please note, the NRG Stadium has a clear bag policy, which can be found on their website. All bags brought in must be clear bags no larger than 12” by 6” by 12”. NRG recommends a one-gallon size plastic Ziploc bag. Items not allowed past security will require guests and students to return them to their cars, or they will not be allowed into the venue. More information on items prohibited into NRG Stadium can be found here.

NRG Stadium Clear Bag Policy
All guests and graduating students will enter NRG Stadium and undergo security screenings – bag checks and metal detectors. Please note, the NRG Stadium has a clear bag policy, which can be found on their website. All bags brought in must be clear bags no larger than 12” by 6” by 12”. NRG recommends a one-gallon size plastic Ziploc bag.

Items NOT allowed into NRG Stadium
No weapons of any kind, no outside flowers, no balloons, no noisemakers, no bullhorns, no beach balls or floating/pool devices, no sporting balls of any kind, no large posters or signs that can block views. No video recorders, no audio recorders, no professional camera equipment. No outside food or drink (medical exceptions may be made by NRG staff). Items not allowed past security will require guests and students to return them to their cars, or they will not be allowed into the venue. More information on items prohibited into NRG Stadium can be found here. 

Strollers and diaper/medical bags: Strollers are allowed into NRG Stadium but would need to be placed and left on the concourse level during the ceremony. NRG and UHD are not responsible for these. Diaper bags and medical bags are allowed inside, but subject to inspection before entry. If possible, a clear bag is preferred for these as well. 

Are individual names read at the ceremony?
Names are read in alphabetical order at the ceremony. Students will be given a walk-card that will help put them in order. The college order is as follows:

College of Sciences and Technology
College of Public Service
College of Humanities and Social Sciences
Marilyn Davies College of Business

How long is the ceremony?
The ceremony lasts about three hours. This time can vary based on the number of students in attendance and remarks from speakers.

Indicating participation requires a commitment to remain in your seat until the conclusion of the commencement ceremony. Ushers on the floor will not allow you to leave the ceremony early.

Am I able to participate in the ceremony if I do not meet graduation requirements?
No, if you have failed courses needed for your degree this term, extended your coursework past this semester, or in any other way are not able to satisfy your academic requirements in this current term, you will not be allowed to participate in the Commencement Ceremony on May 17 and will be turned away. Please visit with your Academic Success Coordinator to ensure you are in good academic standing and are on track to receive your degree at the conclusion of the spring term.

Are guests allowed to attend the Commencement Ceremony?
Yes! We look forward to celebrating your accomplishments with your family and friends. A guest ticket is not required. Additionally, there is no limit on how many guests each graduating student can bring to the ceremony. Please note, seating is on a first-come, first-served basis. 

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

How do I order regalia for graduation?
Regalia for the Spring 2025 Commencement Ceremony may be purchased from the UHD bookstore. The bookstore hours are Monday through Thursday - 10 am to 4 pm and Friday 10 am - 1 pm (closed Saturday and Sunday).

Students will NOT be able to purchase regalia or obtain Honor cords at NRG Stadium 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. 

When will graduates receive their diploma?
Diplomas are mailed to graduates in the weeks following graduation once all degrees are certified. Diplomas will be mailed to a graduate’s permanent address on record. For more information, please continue to monitor our website.