graduate students in caps and gowns celebrating

Commencement at the University of Arizona

You are graduating from the University of Arizona. Congratulations on reaching this incredible milestone. You did it! 

While the University of Arizona does not hold a Commencement Ceremony specifically for Arizona Online students, online students are invited to participate in the in-person ceremony on the University of Arizona main campus. Online and distance students are also invited to a special celebration just for them held in-person before Commencement. 

Here are the details:

When is the University of Arizona (and the University of Arizona Online) Commencement?

The University of Arizona graduation date for the 2023 Commencement ceremony is

Friday, May 12, 2023, at 7:30 pm (MST). 

Commencement will take place in person at Arizona Stadium. In-person and online students are invited to attend the University of Arizona commencement ceremony if they are eligible. Remember to stay in touch with your academic advisor to ensure you are on track to graduate.

You can RSVP for Commencement here.

Is there a graduation ceremony specifically for Arizona Online students?

Arizona Online and The Near You Network host a “Pre-Commencement Celebration” for our graduates.

The Pre-Ceremony Celebration Date: Friday, May 12th 
Time: 5-6 pm (MST)
Location: Environment and Natural Resources 2 Building
Address: 1064 E Lowell St, Tucson, AZ 85719
Parking: The Sixth Street Garage at 1201 E 6th St is the closest garage to the ENR2 Building.

Shortly after 6 pm, graduates will walk to the Arizona Stadium together and sit as a group during the Commencement Ceremony.

Please RSVP to the Pre-Commencement Celebration by April 30th. 

You can RSVP for Pre-Commencement here.

Graduating Mom take selfie with son

For questions about RSVPing, please contact commencement@arizona.edu

Graduate holding the ceremonial torch with fireworks in the background

How do I attend virtual commencement if I cannot attend in-person commencement?

You can join the Commencement Ceremony virtually! It is typically broadcasted on the AZPM University of Arizona Channel.

Do online graduates walk?

Yes. Any University of Arizona graduating student is welcome to RSVP and attend graduation!

What should I expect at virtual graduation?

Virtual Graduation is the Commencement Ceremony that will be broadcasted live. Additionally, a recorded message will be shared with graduating Arizona Online and Near You Network students. Stay tuned for the recorded message.

How should I dress for virtual graduation?

If you are watching the Commencement Ceremony virtually, you will not be on screen so there is no particular dress code. If you are attending Commencement in person, you may dress formally but remember to wear comfortable shoes as both you and your guest will be walking within the stadium and you will be walking on stage to receive your diploma. We do not recommend wearing high heels at Arizona Stadium or on the football field. Remember, May is typically very warm in Tucson, so we recommend wearing breathable clothing.

Visit this page to learn how to prepare for your big day!

What is the difference between Commencement and Convocations?

Commencement is the university-wide celebration held in Arizona Stadium. Convocations are separate events designed and coordinated by each individual school, department or college.

For convocation-specific information visit this page.

For more information regarding Commencement visit the Commencement FAQ page.

Visit the University of Arizona Bookstore to learn about Grad Fest and where to purchase graduation regalia. 

Graduates clap during commencement ceremony

On behalf of the University of Arizona Online, congratulations to all of our graduates!
This is your moment and we look forward to welcoming you back to the University of Arizona as alumni.