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Graduating Students
Congratulations, graduates. Your hard work has paid off. Be sure to invite your family and friends to celebrate with you and the entire Rutgers community.
University Commencement
Celebrate your achievement with the entire Rutgers community at the 247th Anniversary Commencement on Sunday, May 19, 2013, at 12:30 p.m. in High Point Solutions Stadium on the New Brunswick Campus.
At this much anticipated universitywide ceremony, the president of the university will confer all undergraduate and graduate degrees awarded throughout the academic year. Learn more about what to expect during Commencement.
You may invite as many guests as you like, and tickets are not required. However, special Commencement parking hangtags are required to park on campus on Sunday, May 19. See our Parking & Getting Around section for more information.
We are proud to have The Honorable Virginia Long, Rutgers School of Law–Newark alumna and retired Associate Justice of the New Jersey Supreme Court give this year’s Commencement Address.
School Convocations
Schools also hold convocations with their own distinctive traditions where you will receive individual recognition. Check with your individual school's dean's office for further details and information on tickets or limits on guests.
New Brunswick Convocations | Newark Convocations | Camden Convocations
Invitations
There is no limit on the number of guests you can invite to University Commencement. Your school will provide you with six printed commemorative invitations in late-March, but you can also download electronic invitations now.
Academic Regalia
Visit Academic Regalia for detailed information on where to place your order.
Parking
Graduating students must register to receive up to two free parking hangtags for themselves and their families or guests. Visit Parking Guidelines for more information.
Mark the Moment
You can have professional photos taken outside the stadium before and after the ceremony. Following Commencement, you will be able to view the photos online through the GradImages website and purchase them directly from the vendor.
Check with your school to determine if you have any additional school-specific photo opportunities.
Tips for Planning Your Day
- High Point Solutions Stadium gates will open at 10:30 a.m. We ask that students be in your marshaling area no later than 11:30 a.m. Check the What to Expect at University Commencement page for more information.
- University Commencement will take place rain or shine. If the weather is inclement, we will provide ponchos for graduating students. Guests are welcome to bring umbrellas. Only in the event of an electrical storm will the ceremony be canceled.
- Don't forget to bring your special hangtag to park on campus. Check our Parking & Getting Around section for more information.
- Arrive two hours in advance of your first ceremony to allow enough time to park and get to your event location.
- Be certain to wear comfortable shoes to University Commencement. Expect moderate walking. Know that the stadium has concrete flooring and steps.
- Bring sunglasses. Wear sunblock.
- There will be a security check at the stadium.
Reflecting on the Big Day
“From the graduate shout-out videos to friends and family, to the different schools marching in procession, attending the graduation ceremonies made me feel like I was part of something larger than myself and proud to be part of the Class of 2012. Nineteen of my family members attended to celebrate with me. I'm so glad that I went to both University Commencement and my school's convocation.”
—Terek Pierce SAS'12 (pictured above center), an associate producer for the Miami Heat
Want to Know What to Expect?
Take a look at last year's University Commencement to see what the ceremony was like.
Become a Fan on Facebook
Connect with us on our Commencement Facebook page. Get updates, participate in polls and contests, win prizes, share photos and memories—and more.
Learn more about our social media supporters: Catherine Lombardi Restaurant • Indigo Hair Salon • Panico’s Restaurant • Robert Wood Johnson Fitness & Wellness Center • Stage Left Restaurant • The State Theatre • Tula Restaurant & Lounge • Tumulty’s Restaurant
For sponsorship information, email us.
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