December 2026 Convocation

Who is eligible for each convocation ceremony?

August and December 2026 Graduates are eligible to participate in the December 2026 Gies Convocation Ceremony. August and December 2026 and May 2027 Graduates are eligible to participate in the May 2027 Gies Convocation Ceremonies.

What is the difference between Gies Convocation and Universitywide Commencement?

During the Gies Convocation Ceremony, you will have the opportunity to have your individual name read along with the rest of the Gies graduates and you will walk the stage and receive your diploma cover.

During Commencement, all graduates from across the University are eligible to participate. Your degree program will be announced, and you will stand with the rest of your fellow graduates. Individual recognition does not occur at this ceremony. You are not required to attend the Commencement Ceremony to participate in the Gies Convocation.

If you intend on participating in either or both, please note there are separate registration processes for each. You will need to register for each ceremony separately. Please note: Universitywide Commencement is only held in the Spring.

Does applying for graduation also register me for the Gies Convocation?

No, applying for graduation does not automatically register you for either Gies Convocation or Universitywide Commencement. There are separate registration processes for each.

For information regarding applying for graduation, please contact your academic advisor.

Visit the Universitywide Commencement Ceremony website for information on Commencement and how to register.

When will I receive instructions for the day of the ceremony?

After you have registered to participate in the Gies Convocation Ceremony, you will receive a final confirmation email in early December with all the information and instructions needed for the day of.  This email will be sent to the email address used at registration. This information will include arrival time, line up and name card instructions, ceremony details, and information on returning regalia, photography, parking, and venue policies.

Will I receive my diploma at Convocation?

All graduates participating in the Gies Convocation Ceremony will have their names read as they cross the stage. Everyone receives a diploma cover (only). Because it is not possible to process final grades and prepare degree lists by Convocation weekend, diplomas will be mailed approximately 9 weeks after your conferral date.

Here are additional details on your diploma.

I am receiving two degrees/dual programs, will I be recognized for both degrees? 

Each graduate will cross the stage one time during the Gies Convocation Ceremony and have their name read in the department/degree area they used during the convocation ceremony registration.

I am receiving two separate degrees, both from Gies. Can I get a 2nd diploma cover? 

Upon the conclusion of the in-person ceremony (AFTER the platform party has recessed out of the room), the graduate may approach the stage area and request a 2nd diploma cover from a Gies volunteer. Alternatively, graduates may order diploma covers from the Illini Union Bookstore.

Do I need to stay for the entire Convocation Ceremony?

As a courtesy to and out of mutual respect for all graduates, the graduate and their family should remain seated until the conclusion of the ceremony following the platform party recessional.