Find quick answers to your questions about the 2024 Graham School Diploma Ceremony, including schedules, attire, and preparation tips. For questions about the university-wide ceremony, please visit the University Convocation’s FAQ page.

Graham School Diploma Ceremony FAQ - 2024

When is the Graham School Diploma Ceremony?

The Graham School Diploma Ceremony will occur on Sunday,June 2, 2024, from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the David Rubenstein Forum located at 1201 East 60th Street, Chicago, IL 60637. A reception will immediately follow the ceremony. You can learn more about the venue by visiting the David Rubenstein Forum website.

Who can participate in the Graham School Diploma Ceremony?

Graham School graduates who completed their studies during the Summer 2023, Autumn 2023, and Winter 2024 quarters are eligible to participate in the Spring 2024 Ceremony. Spring 2024 expected graduates of the Biomedical Informatics program may register to participate in the ceremony; however, they will not receive their degree until they complete all academic requirements after the Summer 2024 academic quarter.

How do I register to participate in the Graham School Diploma Ceremony?

Participating graduates may visit the registration page to RSVP for themselves and their guests. Registration to attend this year’s ceremony will close on May 10, 2024, at 5:00 p.m. After this deadline, students can receive additional information on securing registrations for the Graham School Diploma Ceremony by emailing grahamschooldos@uchicago.edu.

Where can I learn more information about University Convocation?

Please visit the University Convocation webpages and the Student FAQ to learn more about University Convocation.

Ordering Regalia

Please visit uchicago.shopoakhalli.com or the Graham School Regalia Page to find details about ordering regalia. Graduates are responsible for purchasing a cap, gown, and tassel to participate in official university convocation or diploma ceremony exercises.

Academic Hoods: Your academic hood is gifted to you from the Graham School, and graduates will receive their hood during the Diploma Ceremony.

Academic Hood Colors and Corresponding Degree Programs:

• Master of Science in Biomedical Informatics – Salmon Pink

• Master of Liberal Arts – White

• Master of Science in Threat and Response Management – Peacock

What time should graduates and guests of graduates arrive at the Spring 2024 Diploma Ceremony?

Guests and graduates may arrive for check-in starting at 12:45 p.m. All graduates participating in the ceremony must be checked in no later than 1:15 p.m. to ensure readiness for the ceremonial processional. There is general seating for guests and reserved seating for graduates. The ceremony will start promptly at 1:30 p.m. Guests are asked to be in their seats no later than 1:15 p.m. to observe the processional. Seating is first-come, first-served.

Please note that all bags are subject to inspection upon entering the venue. Items that may disrupt other guests from seeing or hearing the ceremony are not permitted. It is strongly recommended that guests plan to arrive on campus early and allow extra time for parking and travel according to their intended plans.

Does the University provide invitation letters for visa applications if my family is traveling from abroad?

Support letters are not required for B1/B2 visa applications, but you may prepare an optional supplemental letter for your family and friends using the template on the Office of International Affairs (OIA) website. You can also print out the official convocation details from the university website or print out a formal confirmation email you have received regarding convocation details.

Will the Diploma Ceremony be broadcasted, and will photographs be taken?

Yes, the 2024 diploma ceremony will be live-streamed, and the link to access the live feed will be available on the Graham School website on the day of the ceremony. Please invite guests who are unable to attend in-person to join in virtually. Professional photographers will also be present to document the experience.

Am I required to march in the university-wide Convocation Ceremony on Saturday, June 1, 2024?

While it is not required, it is strongly recommended that all degree candidates participate in the morning ceremony, as this is where President A. Paul Alivisatos will formally confer your degree.

How many guests can I invite for the university-wide and/or Graham School Diploma Ceremony?

Tickets are not required for the university-wide Convocation, and seating is first-come, first-served. The Graham School Ceremony guest allocation will adhere to venue occupancy and public health guideline requirements. Graduates may request up to five guest tickets. Information concerning how to secure additional guest registrations will be shared on Monday, May 13, 2024.

I missed the deadline to apply for graduation. Can I still participate in the diploma ceremony?

All current students eligible for graduation who complete all academic requirements during the spring quarter of 2024 but miss the graduation application deadline may be eligible to participate in the diploma ceremony; however, your degree may be conferred during the following academic quarter. Contact your academic program advisor to discuss this matter if you have questions or concerns.

What is the difference between applying for graduation and registering for the Diploma Ceremony?

Applying for graduation is the official request to the university to review your academic progress and confirm that you have met all the requirements to earn your degree. All students MUST apply for degree conferral during the quarter they expect to graduate.

Registering for the diploma ceremony or informing us that you plan to march in the university-wide ceremony lets us know you plan to participate in the convocation festivities, allowing us to plan accordingly. Participation is optional, but you must register to attend the Graham School Diploma Ceremony. Participating in the ceremony does not mean you have earned your degree.

I still have questions about the Diploma Ceremony, who should I contact?

If you have general questions about the Graham School Diploma ceremony please email grahamdos@uchicago.edu. If you have questions about your academic progression or eligibility to graduate please contact your academic advisor.