I want to participate in Commencement — what do I need to do?

We recommend that students submit an application for graduation during the semester prior to when their degree will be complete. We invite you to apply on the registrar’s website. 

Students who have applied to graduate will receive an email confirmation including a link to register to attend the Commencement ceremony. Keep an eye out in your GVSU inbox for this email!  

Why does my Banner account or application indicate a different date than what is listed on the Commencement website?

The date listed on a student’s Banner account and/or application is based on their ‘graduation’ date which is always the Saturday after finals. ‘Commencement’ is the actual ceremony. The dates and times noted on the Commencement website's home page are accurate and indicate when an eligible student will walk with their College.

Tickets

• Tickets are not required. However, due to capacity limitations at the venue, we ask that all candidates be mindful of their number of guests in attendance. This will ensure everyone has an enjoyable experience and that there are seats available for all. All seats are general admission, seating is first-come, first-seated and there are no reserved seats. We will live stream the ceremony and provide a live stream link on the homepage on the day of the event.
• Van Andel Arena has adopted a No Bag policy, permitting no bags, backpacks or purses other than those required for medical or parenting needs into the venue. Small clutches no larger than 4.5" x 6.5" x 2" will be permitted. Bags in the medical/essential category will be screened by security personnel. Policy is subject to change based on event policy. The No Bag policy reduces contact between guests and security staff by eliminating the need to search these items. This is part of ongoing efforts to promote a contact-free experience.

Regalia

Visit the Laker Store on the Allendale Campus to purchase your cap and gown.

Regalia and Adornments Guidelines

Cords and Stoles

• There is no written policy about cords or stoles. However, we do discourage the purchase of additional cords and/or stoles.
• The honor societies (with a required GPA) currently approved for cords are list on the Honors Recognition page.

Ceremony

• Doors open 1.5 hours prior to the ceremony start time
• Van Andel Arena has adopted a No Bag policy, permitting no bags, backpacks or purses other than those required for medical or parenting needs into the venue. Small clutches no larger than 4.5" x 6.5" x 2" will be permitted. Bags in the medical/essential category will be screened by security personnel. Policy is subject to change based on event policy. The No Bag policy reduces contact between guests and security staff by eliminating the need to search these items. This is part of ongoing efforts to promote a contact-free experience.
• The ceremony is anticipated to be no longer than 2.5 hours. (Please allow for time to find your seat before the ceremony. Also allow time for exiting and meeting up with your graduate/supporters after the ceremony, when considering plans after the event.)
• The ceremony will be broadcast live online.
• Additional information regarding the ceremony can be found on the Commencement website.

Parking

Downtown Grand Rapids will be festive (and busy!) The Grand Rapids annual Santa Parade will be held on December 7, 2024, starting at 5 p.m., followed by the tree lighting ceremony at Rosa Park circle at 6:45 p.m. While this should not significantly impact parking for Commencement guests, we want to make guests and participants aware that foot traffic and vehicle traffic could be heavy after the ceremony.

• Parking is available in city lots near Van Andel Arena. View downtown Grand Rapids parking options.
• We recommend allowing for extra travel time for delays due to heavy traffic, road construction, closures, or potential weather conditions that may impact travel. There is some construction taking place near the Van Andel Arena. Please check for closures and the most up-to-date information regarding road construction by viewing the City of Grand Rapids road closure map as well as their project page.

Accessible Parking:
Accessible parking is available in all City owned and operated parking ramps and surface parking lots. Each lot has accessible designated spaces, including van-accessible spaces, for vehicles displaying a current state-issued disability placard or license plate. Accessible spaces are filled on a first-come, first-served basis, so please plan accordingly. Please refer to the Directions & Parking tab for locations, availability and additional information regarding City parking. City of Grand Rapids Parking Services can be contacted at 616-456-3290.

Accessibility and Special Accommodations

• Closed captioning will be provided.
• ADA accessible seating will be available. Learn more on Van Andel Arena's website.
• A nursing mothers' room will be located on the main concourse in the ASM Boardroom, inside the ASM administrative offices
• Should you need additional accommodations or assistance, please email [email protected] or indicate a graduate special accommodations request during the registration process for attending Commencement.

Photography

• You may use cameras and video cameras, however guests should take pictures from their seat. Access to the stage is restricted to those involved in the ceremony. 
• A professional photographer will take pictures of each graduate as they cross the stage.
• A DVD will be available for purchase of each ceremony, to order complete our Commencement DVD Order Form.
• Photographs and video will be taken during this event. Your presence gives consent for any such photographs or video to be used for advertising and publicity purposes by Grand Valley State University.

Following Ceremony

• Family and friends should establish a predetermined location outside of the Van Andel Arena to meet with their graduate following the ceremony. There will be no opportunity for families to meet up with their graduates indoors.