This year, Illinois graduates will gather in Memorial Stadium for the greatest celebration of the year—the University-wide Commencement ceremony. Here is a guide for everything you need to know to prepare:
Event Details and Arrival Times
The University-wide Commencement ceremony will take place on Saturday, May 14 at 9:30 a.m.
All graduates should arrive no later than 8:45 a.m. At Memorial Stadium, graduates will sit on the field with their college to be recognized during the ceremony.
Graduates and guests should plan ahead to arrive on time and avoid crowds.
Parking
Free parking is available in the grass lot across First Street just west of Memorial Stadium (weather permitting) and in Lot E-14 at the corner of First and Kirby. Guests with an accessible parking permit on display may park in the north State Farm Center lots.
Spaces are limited and available on a first come, first served basis.
Clear Bag Policy
There will be a clear bag policy enforced at the stadium for all guests and graduates. See the clear bag policy to ensure you’re entering with a permitted item.
Livestream
Can’t make the ceremony? Don’t miss a second of it and watch virtually.
A livestream will be available at go.illinois.edu/live.
Speaker
Jill Ellis, winner of back-to-back FIFIA World Cups as head coach of the U.S. Women’s National Team, will be our 2022 Commencement speaker. Previously, she was the head coach of the first Illinois Women’s Soccer team.
Photo Opportunities
Guests are highly encouraged to take photos during the Commencement ceremony.
Our campus also has a variety of places to capture your moment:
- Beginning May 9, Commencement backdrops will be placed at the Business Instructional Facility atrium, the Electrical and Computer Engineering Building atrium and the Illini Union Courtyard.
Check out some of our other favorite spots:
- Alice Campbell Alumni Center
- Alma Mater
- Arboretum/Japan House
- Grange Grove
- Hallene Gateway
- Krannert Center for the Performing Arts
- The Quad
- University of Illinois sign
Accessibility
For guests needing special assistance, enter through Portal 1 along Kirby Avenue and through Gate 24. An usher will be there to direct you.
For graduates needing special assistance, contact the Commencement Committee at 217-333-8834 or email the Commencement Office.
Find more information about accessibility.
Convocations
Convocation is a separate ceremony that is sponsored by a college, school or department. Here, undergraduate and graduate students can be individually recognized.
Make sure you follow the instructions sent by the unit for the ceremony. View the list of convocation ceremonies.