Summer Commencement

• 9 a.m.: Doors open
• 9:45 a.m.: Graduates seated
• 10 a.m.: Ceremony begins
• 12 p.m.: Ceremony concludes with the recessional

*Graduates and guests are expected to adhere to the etiquette and protocols guidelines.

A detailed parking map and additional information will be available in late June, please check back for updates.

Parking on campus is complimentary on Commencement Day. For easiest access to the lots surrounding Worthen Arena, we recommend entering via Bethel Avenue.

Doctoral and Master’s candidates will sit in a designated area, while undergraduates will be seated with their respective college. Undergraduates, please review What’s My College to determine your college affiliation.

The ceremony begins with a formal procession led by the Mace Carrier, President Mearns, and platform party. Remarks will be delivered by President Mearns, Provost Marri, and a special speaker. Degrees will be conferred during the ceremony, with each graduate individually acknowledged and doctoral candidates formally hooded.

*Those graduates who register to attend will receive emails in June with more information.

At the conclusion of the ceremony, graduates will be directed to exit the arena following the platform party recessional. Please coordinate a meeting spot outside the arena with family and friends ahead of time.

You will find a bag containing:

• Diploma cover
• Name card
• Pencil
• Instruction card

Please fill out your name card and photo information legibly and promptly. Be prepared to list the phonetics of how you would like your name announced as your cross the stage. You will carry your diploma cover and completed card with you when it’s time to walk across the stage. Hand your card to the student marshal before your name is announced. Our Commencement staff will direct you across the stage.

Flash Photography will capture three special moments during the ceremony. First, as you cross the stage, you will pause at the center of the stage with your diploma cover as your name is called. Next, as you exit the stage, you will have the opportunity to pose for a fun, celebratory photo that captures your excitement. Finally, after leaving the stage, you will be directed to take a posed portrait with a backdrop before returning to your seat. You will receive an email from Flash Photography after the ceremony with a link to view and purchase your photos, if interested.

Once photos have been taken, staff will guide you back to your seat to rejoin your fellow graduates for the remainder of the ceremony.

• Graduates and guests are expected to stay for the full duration of the ceremony.
• Ball State University enforces a clear bag policy. Please review the Security and Safety information for details on the clear bag policy and security protocols.
• Review the list of prohibited items and share the commencement website with your guests so everyone is prepared
• You will go directly to your seat upon arrival-no lineup or holding area.
• Do not bring umbrellas, bags, or personal items; storage is not available.
• Cap decorations are encouraged, but must be appropriate and not obstruct views.
• Wear comfortable yet formal footwear-you will be walking and standing.
• Arrive dressed in your full regalia: cap, gown, and any approved cords or stoles.
• Outside food and beverages are not permitted inside the venue. Alcoholic beverages are strictly prohibited at all commencement ceremonies.
• Graduates and guests are expected to adhere to the etiquette and protocols guidelines.