It’s one of the biggest and best celebrations on campus. Whether you’re earning your degree or supporting a graduate’s success, commencement is a celebration to be remembered.
Arrive early to avoid crowds
The university-wide commencement ceremony will run from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, May 16. Make sure you’re seated before the ceremony starts.
Students should arrive by 9 a.m. to be seated by 9:15 a.m.
Be aware of the clear bag policy
The Memorial Stadium clear bag policy is in effect for this event. For your safety and enjoyment, the following items are not permitted inside the stadium:
- Bags larger than 4.5” x 7.0” (including purses, backpacks and binocular cases)
- Laser pointers
- Banners/signs
- Noisemakers
- Blankets
- Weapons
- Laptops
- Video recorders
- Monopods
- Tripods
View the clear bag policy for the full list of items permitted and items prohibited.
Know where to park
Free parking will be available in the grass lots west of Memorial Stadium (weather permitting) and in Lot E-14 at the corner of First and Kirby.
Guests with a handicap permit on display may park in the north State Farm Center lots.
For additional parking information, see the Illinois Campus Map and the Memorial Stadium parking map.
Get the perfect photo
Guests are welcome to take photographs during the ceremony at Memorial Stadium.
Make sure to take advantage of the following photo opportunities around campus:
- Graduate head shots: Graduates can have a headshot taken during cap and gown pick-up times at Activities and Recreation Center (ARC). A gown will be provided for the photographs, and students will use their own cap, tassel and hood.
- Alma Mater: The Alma Mater statue will be dressed in academic attire on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday of commencement week, weather permitting. See how long the lines are before you go by checking the Alma Cam.
Stay until the end of the ceremony
At Illinois, we know how to celebrate—you won't want to miss the iconic dazzle of orange and blue confetti.
After the ceremony concludes, graduates will also receive a commemorative Illinois class pin.
