Commencement Home
Schedule of Events
Undergraduate Commencement Instructions
Graduate Commencement Instructions
Faculty & Board of Trustees Instructions
Map and Directions
Commencement FAQ
Are caps and gowns required for me to participate in year-end celebrations?
Yes, caps and gowns (and hoods for master's and doctoral students), also known as regalia, are required to participate in Graduate Hooding Ceremony, Ivy Cutting, and Commencement. Regalia in not needed for Baccalaureate.
What color will my tassel be?
The color for tassels was standardized by the American Council for Education in early 20th century. The colors for the various disciplines from SPU are as follows:
*Students receiving a teaching certificate may wear both an education tassel and a tassel for their major.
What color will my gown be?
Caps and gowns, regardless of degree level, are black.
Where do I order and pick up my cap and gown?
Information about caps, gowns, rings, and announcements can be found on the page for Undergraduate Commencement Instructions and Graduate Commencement Instructions.
Do I really need a ticket to attend Commencement?
Yes! Every individual — including students, faculty, staff, and trustees — needs a ticket to enter the stadium. Graduating students can order tickets in Banner when they sign up to walk in the ceremony. Parents: Your student is the only one who can request tickets for you. Faculty, staff, and trustees will receive their tickets at the stadium.
Do small children need tickets?
You will need a ticket for a child if you want the youngster to have his or her own seat. If you plan to hold the child (or baby) on your lap, the child does not need a ticket.
Am I limited in the number of tickets I can have for Commencement? Each student who requests tickets will be issued 10 tickets. If your family needs more, simply have your family’s graduating student request them when they register to walk for Commencement.
Why do you require tickets?
Tickets are required to help ensure the safety of all present and to ensure that those in the stadium are there for the purpose of our Commencement.
My student didn’t give me a ticket. Can I get one from your office?
It is the policy of the University to deal only with students regarding tickets. You will need to work with your student to ensure you have tickets for the event.
Will I need a ticket if I go back to the car to get something?
Yes. Please take your ticket with you whenever you leave the stadium and plan to reenter.
Note: As the largest school, College of Arts and Sciences will have more than half of all bachelor’s degree candidates.
What about lost and found?
If you have lost an item at an on-campus event, please contact the Office of Academic Affairs at 206-281-2125 or graduationinfo@spu.edu.
If you have lost an item at Commencement in Qwest Stadium, contact the stadium as directed on its page about lost and found items.
Why is Commencement held outside in Seattle?
Large venues in Seattle are very limited. We choose Qwest Stadium because it meets our needs and allows graduates to invite as many guests as they choose. All the major universities in Seattle hold outdoor ceremonies.
Where is parking for graduation?
Parking is available in several areas around and on campus.
What happens if it rains?
Commencement proceeds as planned, rain or shine. Please come dressed appropriately for the weather on that day. The upper seats of the stadium are covered, but the lower ones are not. If the skies are cloudy and rain is forecast, you may want to consider bringing an umbrella. If rain is expected, graduates will be provided with rain ponchos.
Can I bring an umbrella?
Yes. Please come prepared for rain, shine, or wind. Seating at the stadium is partially covered, but the best seats are not.
Are the concession stands open during the ceremony?
Yes. The concession stands will be open in the stadium, but there will be no roaming concession sellers. No alcohol will be available.
Are we allowed to bring balloons or wrapped packages into the stadium?
Due to security concerns, balloons or wrapped packages are not allowed in the stadium. If you bring balloons or wrapped packages, you will be asked to return them to your car.