IUPUI is Indiana's premier urban research university. The campus enrolls more than 30,000 students in 21 schools and academic units.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What size will my diploma be? I would like to purchase a frame.
A: Indiana University diplomas are 8 1/2" x 11", except doctor of medicine, law, and dentistry, which are 16" x 20". Diplomas for Purdue undergraduate degrees are 7 1/2" x 9 1/2" and graduate diplomas are 8 1/2" x 11".
Q: Is there a ceremony for December graduates?
A: There is only one Commencement Day each year at the IUPUI campus, and it is in May. All students who complete degree requirements during the current academic year (December, May, June, August) are eligible to participate in the May ceremonies.
Q: I am a December graduate. How do I get my diploma?
A: Each school has its own method of distributing diplomas. You should contact your school's Recorder.
Q: Do I need to fill out paperwork or notify someone that I will be graduating? How will my name get in the Commencement program?
A: Each graduating student must complete an intent-to-graduate form and submit it to his/her School Recorder. This assures that your name will be listed in the printed program. Contact your Recorder to find out how and where to get the applicable form.
Q: Do I have to attend the “main” ceremony or just my school ceremony?
A: The "main" ceremony is the official University ceremony, and it is there that degrees are conferred and diploma covers are presented. Each school has its own recognition ceremony as well. We encourage you to participate in both.
Q: How do I get information about my school ceremony?
A: A list of school ceremony locations and times is posted here. Additional information about your school ceremony will be included in the "final instruction" pamphlet you will receive with your apparel. You may also receive direct communications from your school.
Q: How long is the main ceremony?
A: Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. The student procession begins 20 minutes before the start of each ceremony. Most school ceremonies will begin thirty minutes after the main ceremony.
Q: How long is my school ceremony?
A: School ceremonies differ in length, but the average is approximately one hour.
Q: How many tickets can I get for my family and guests?
A: Tickets are not needed for the main ceremony...anyone may attend. Neither do any of the Schools limit attendance at their ceremonies.
Q: How do I get my honor cord?
A: Honor cords are distributed by the schools the week prior to Commencement. Some choose to do so on Commencement Sunday prior to the main ceremony. Check with your school's Recorder for further information.
Q: Will my name be read at the main ceremony?
A: Only doctoral students' names will be read at the main ceremony. However, after the presentation of candidates, each school will march to the front and each student will be handed a diploma cover by his/her respective dean. Video pictures of individual students will be projected onto large screens as they receive the cover. Individual recognition by name does take place at most of the school ceremonies.
Q: Are wheelchairs available at the Indiana Convention Center? How can I reserve one?
A: A limited number of wheelchairs will be available at the Indiana Convention Center on a first-come, first-served basis. Designated areas are available in the convention center for wheelchair-bound attendees, both graduates and guests. Additional information is available on the Persons with Disabilities page.
Q: Do I get to keep my cap and gown? Do I get to keep my hood?
A: You cannot keep your gown or your hood (this is rental apparel), but the cap and tassel are yours to keep.
Commencement Hot Line: 317-278-1700 or 1-866-267-3104
E-MAIL: commence@iupui.edu
