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Michigan State University
Michigan State University

Commencement

Ceremony

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Ceremony

All Michigan State University degree candidates who attend their commencement ceremony are recognized individually for their academic achievement. Please help us provide a memorable event for all involved.

Spring 2023 Commencement

May 4 – 7 and May 12 – 13

Spring 2023 Schedule

Gates/Doors open one hour and 15 minutes prior to ceremony start times.

  • No tickets are required.   
  • There are no limits on the number of guests per graduate at this time.
  • Seating for guests is first-come, first-seated.
  • No guests (including babies and children) are permitted in the candidate assembly area or the arena floor.
  • Please remain for the entire ceremony.
  • Please be respectful of all candidates. All names deserve to be heard. 
  • Photographs are encouraged, but please remain in your seat when photographing or recording. Professional photographers will provide at least one photo of each graduate. The vendor will contact the graduates with purchasing information.
  • Please be sure to review the security page for prohibited items.


Graduate Seating

Advanced Degrees

Fall and Spring Semesters:

  • Doctoral degree candidates will be seated by college on the Arena floor.
  • Educational specialist and master’s degree candidates will be seated by college in the bleachers and on the Arena level.

Baccalaureate Degrees

Fall Semester:

  • Candidates are seated by college in the bleachers on the Arena level. The stage is located on the west side of the Arena floor. View Seating Diagram (PDF)

Spring Semester:

  • The seating will vary by ceremony. However, graduating seniors will be seated by major either on the Arena floor or in bleacher seating on the Arena level. The stage is located on the west side of the Arena floor.

Ceremony


Reminder to Candidates

  • You MUST apply to graduate. Complete the application through SIS by Feb. 20 for the Spring 2023 semester. This will ensure that your name is included in the printed commencement program. If you have a directory restriction on your account or apply after the deadline, your name will not print in the program. 
  • Register to participate in your ceremony here. This is a separate step from the graduation application.