Protocol

The University of Dayton Commencement is a formal ceremony and a dignified event.  Please note the following protocol.  

Failure to follow Graduation Protocol or exhibition of any behavior deemed inappropriate may result in the removal of the candidate from the Arena and the withholding of their diploma.

Graduation Protocol

• Caps and gowns may not be altered in any way.  The only academic regalia permitted at the ceremony are caps, gowns, hoods and those honor cords distributed by Flyer Student Services.
• Graduates who are being commissioned in the United States armed services may wear their uniform in place of a cap and gown.
• Casual business attire should be worn under the gown.
• Arrive at the arena on time.  Students who arrive after the procession has left the line up area may not be seated with their school.
• Secure all personal items in your vehicle or with a family member before reporting to the line up area.
• Alcoholic beverages are not permitted.
• Once you have been placed in your line, please do not leave your place.
• Only graduating students are permitted in the line up area, permitted to walk in the procession, sit with the other graduates and approach the President for the congratulatory hand shake.
• Silence all cell phones.
• Graduates are to remain in their assigned seats for the duration of the Graduation Ceremony.

General Information

• Attendance at the Graduation Ceremony is not compulsory.  If you do not plan to attend the ceremony, please email fss@udayton.edu.
• For May Ceremonies: Graduate/Doctoral candidates should arrive at the Arena no later than 12 p.m. on Saturday and Undergraduate candidates should arrive at the Arena no later than 9:00 a.m. on Sunday. 
• For December ceremony: all candidates should arrive at the Arena no later than 9 a.m.
• Doctoral graduates will receive their diploma at the ceremony. All other graduates will receive a proxy diploma at the graduation ceremony.  Official diplomas will be mailed to the address indicated on the graduation application within 4 weeks of graduation.  Diplomas will be issued only after all academic obligations have been met.
• There are no tickets for the Graduation Ceremony.  Seating is on a first-come first-serve basis. 
• Graduation Announcements may be purchased at the Graduation Fair or at the University Bookstore. 
• Requests for special accommodations for graduates should be made to fss@udayton.edu at least three weeks prior to the ceremony.
• A photographer from GradImages will take individual photos as the graduate is congratulated by the President.  GradImages will send each student an email with their proof and instructions on how to order prints.
• An official transcript, with final degree posted, will be sent to each graduate approximately 5 weeks after graduation. Additional transcript requests can be made in person, by mail or via the web.   
• Candidates at the Graduate and Doctoral level are assessed a $90 non-refundable graduation charge regardless of ceremony participation.
• Graduation Receptions sponsored by each individual unit are by Invitation Only (receptions only occur for May Graduation).

If you have any other questions regarding graduation, please call Flyers Student Services at (937) 229-4141 or 1-800-259-8864.