Graduation and Commencement

Graduation day brings together graduates in caps and gowns, seated before a stage adorned with international flags and speakers celebrating their achievements.

Spring Commencement 2026

Saturday, May 16, 2026 | 2:00pm

Wessman Arena
(Open to Fall 2025, Spring 2026, and Summer 2026 grads)

RSVPs and Ticket Claim Opens January 2026 – invites sent to students via campus e-mail

A live video feed will be available here the day of the ceremony.

A graduate smiles as two faculty members place a graduation hood on her during the graduation ceremony. They stand before a display of international flags, all dressed in academic gowns and caps.

The Grad Walk

What Is The Grad Walk?

Taking place in December, the Grad Walk allows fall graduates who are unable to attend the spring ceremony an experience similar to that of a traditional ceremony. Students will wear their regalia, walk across the stage, have their name read, and the Chancellor will hand them their diploma tube and pose for a picture with them. Master’s students will have the opportunity to be hooded as well.

NOTE: This is NOT a full ceremony, it is a photo opportunity event. Students/guests will not be seated, they will move through the photo line then depart the area once the student has walked the stage.

Resources

Commencement vs. Graduation

Graduation is the awarding of an academic degree or diploma. The Registrar’s Office oversees the completion of all degree programs. If you have questions about your classes or degree requirements, please contact the Registrar’s Office at 715-392-8228 or via email at [email protected].

Commencement is the spring ceremony that recognizes your academic achievements. We work hard to ensure you and your loved ones have a meaningful opportunity to celebrate your accomplishments. Questions about commencement can be sent to [email protected].

How to Apply for Graduation

Students must apply for graduation through E-Hive. This will trigger a final degree check, and ensure the student is included in all commencement communications including the ceremony program.

Prior to graduation, be sure to complete any financial aid exit counseling. Please contact the Financial Aid Office for more information.

How to RSVP for Commencement

Students wishing to participate in the ceremony will need to complete the RSVP and Ticket Claim form. Watch your UW-Superior email in January for dates, deadlines and information about Commencement.

How to Receive Your Regalia

Students can purchase regalia through ‘Jacket Book & Supply. What regalia do you need?
– Associates/Bachelor’s: cap, gown, tassel
– Master’s/Specialist: cap, gown, tassel, hood

The Alumni & Friends Foundation gifts legacy students with a special tassel charm to recognize the connection they share with family members who have graduated before them. Students with UWS graduates in their family history (parents, stepparents, or grandparents) are considered legacies. Both undergraduate and graduate students are eligible.

The tassel charms will be available at both the Grad Walk in December and the Commencement Ceremony in May. You can also pick up a charm in the Alumni & Friends Foundation office in Old Main 237, or have one mailed to you.

Contact Alumni Relations at [email protected] or 715-394-8593 with questions or to request to have a charm mailed.

Additional Information

Graduation and Commencement FAQs