Graduation

Why do I need to attend two ceremonies in Spring? 
Due to the high volume of graduates in the spring semester, we hold two ceremonies for each graduate- a University Wide Commencement Ceremony and a College Recognition Ceremony. There is no need to use this same model in the summer and fall semesters, as our graduation numbers are significantly lower in those two semesters.  

Will my name be called as I walk across the stage? 
Yes, at the COTA Recognition Ceremony. All College of the Arts graduates will be recognized by name as they cross the stage at the COTA Recognition Ceremony. 

Do I need tickets for the COTA Recognition Ceremony at the Phillips Center for the Performing Arts? 
Yes, this venue requires all attendees, including children, to have a ticket. Graduates will be seated on stage and do not need a ticket for entry. Graduates can reserve up to 8 tickets each. Details on ticket pick up and additional ticket requests will be emailed to all graduates. 

How long will the ceremony be? 
Generally, you should plan for the ceremony to last about 2 hours from the posted start time. 

What should I wear? 
Graduates should wear their academic regalia to both the COTA Recognition Ceremony and the University Wide Commencement Ceremony. You cannot participate in the ceremony if you do not have regalia. To order regalia, please visit the UF Bookstore, email cap-gown@ufl.edu, or order online.

Your commencement regalia includes a name card for you to complete. Please make sure to bring this with you to the recognition ceremony. Please have your name card in hand to give to the name reader when you process across the stage.  

If you are an undergraduate degree candidate, please feel free to decorate your cap if you’d like to!

What if I have an accommodation request?
Accommodations are available. Please contact Jennifer Hodges at jhodges@arts.ufl.edu or 352-273-1492 to arrange.

Accessibility information for the Phillips Center for the Performing Arts can be found here.

Will I receive my diploma? 
Diplomas are mailed to the graduates. LEARN MORE 

Where can I park? 
All parking is on a first-come, first-served basis. Parking restrictions are lifted for graduation weekend, but parking is limited. It is recommended that you arrive early, particularly if members of your party are elderly or have mobility impairments. 

There is a flat lot and parking garage adjacent to the Phillips Center located at 3201 Hull Road, Gainesville FL: VIEW CAMPUS MAP 

What if I have questions about the Doctoral Commencement Ceremony or University-wide Ceremony? 
For questions pertaining to the UF Doctoral Commencement Ceremony and/or University-wide Ceremony, learn more here.