Frequently Asked Questions
General Questions
When is the May 2024 Commencement Ceremony?
May 2024 Commencement ceremonies will take place on May 3rd and 4th, 2024 at the Central Bank Center at Rupp Arena. You can find more details on the May 2024 information page.
Is there a reception following the ceremony?
Yes! The Alumni Association hosts a Grad Gathering following each ceremony. Graduates and their families are encouraged to attend.
How do I contact the Commencement office?
Please email us at commencement@uky.edu or call 859-218-6699. Our office is located on the 1st floor of the Gatton Student Center, Suite A150.
Questions for Guests
Does my family or guests need tickets to attend Commencement?
No, tickets are not required for guests to attend the graduation ceremonies.
What services will be available for those needing special accommodations?
We will have closed-captions and an ASL interpreter for all ceremonies both in-person and on the live stream. Accommodated seating and parking for guests and their families is available at Rupp Arena. This seating is on a first-come, first-serve basis so we recommend arriving when the doors open an hour before each ceremony. If a graduate requires additional accommodations, please contact commencement@uky.edu.
Will there be a shuttle service for the December and May Commencement Ceremonies?
Shuttle services will not run for Decemeber Commencement Ceremonies.
For May Commencement Ceremonies, shuttles services will run continuously from 8am-9:30pm on Friday, and 8am-1:30pm on Saturday from Administration Drive by Parking Structure #5 (Cornerstone Garage) to Rupp Arena at Central Bank Center.
The Cornerstone parking structure, located on 401 S Limestone, will also be open for those interested in shuttling from campus. Entrances to the parking structure are located on S Limestone and S Upper Street.
Where should graduates and guests park?
The Rupp Arena at Central Bank Center parking lot is located on West High Street and will have free parking for all guests and graduates.
In an effort to ensure all graduates and their families have an enjoyable experience, you are asked to move your vehicle from the High Street Lot immediately after your ceremony concludes to ensure the next ceremony can start on time.
A map of these locations can be found here.
Is the ceremony livestreamed?
Yes. The ceremony will be live-streamed to YouTube and the link will be available on our homepage the morning of Commencement.
How long will the ceremony last?
We expect each ceremony to last around 2 hours depending on how many students participate. This may vary from family to family as students will leave after walking across the stage, so you may not be at Rupp Arena for the full 2 hours.
I have questions about Rupp Arena's policies. Where can I find that information?
You can find Rupp Arena's policy information on their website. Please be sure to reach out to their guest services team for specific questions regarding Rupp Arena.
Will there be any strobe lighting or other elements like this at the ceremony?
Yes. Strobe lighting will be used during the UK Fight Song. Those with sensitivity to light should avoid this section of the ceremony. Please contact the commencement office for more details.
Questions for Graduates
Is Commencement just for undergraduate students?
No. Undergraduate, Graduate and PhD students who have applied for their degree are eligible to participate in Commencement.
Is there a rehearsal prior to Commencement?
No, there is no rehearsal prior to Commencement. Graduates should arrive at least one hour before their scheduled ceremony and will be given instructions on how to gather with their College after they check in.
What time should students arrive at Rupp Arena?
Students should arrive ONE hour before their ceremony for check-in. The entrance is located on West High Street and there will be signage directing students to check-in.
How do I register to participate in graduation ceremonies?
You will need to register for Commencement in order to participate in the graduation ceremony by visiting our website. Please be sure to apply for your degree first or the ability to participate in Commencement will not be available to you.
I am graduating with dual degrees. Which College ceremony should I participate in?
You will participate in the College ceremony of your preference. Although you may only be participating in only one ceremony, you will still be recognized for both degrees in the Commencement program.
Is registering for Commencement and applying for my degree the same thing?
No. You need to apply for your degree through myUK and work with your academic advisor. Registering for Commencement is a separate process and only confirms your participation in the ceremony.
Where can I buy my cap and gown?
All information regarding regalia can be found here.
When will my name appear in the Commencement program?
Your name will be featured in the Commencement program corresponding to the term for which you applied for your degree. For instance, names for degree applications for Spring and Summer terms will appear in the May Commencement program, while names for Winter term applications will be included in the December Commencement program. If you have any questions about degrees or the application process, please contact the Registrar's office at registrar@uky.edu or 859-257-7157.
When will I receive my degree?
The Registrar's office processes and mails out degrees once they are conferred. Please contact their office via email at registrar@uky.edu for questions related to your degree.
How can I determine the size of my diploma?
The size of your diploma varies based on your degree type. Please refer to the following dimensions:
- Bachelor’s: 8 ½ x 11 inches
- Master’s: 8 ½ x 11 inches
- Doctoral/Professional: 12 x 15 inches
- Medicine: 14 x 16 inches
If you have specific questions regarding your degree, please contact the Registrar's Office.
Where can I access my photos after graduation?
We have partnered with Pro Pics to take professional portraits of all graduates during the ceremony. Photos will be available for purchase after the ceremony. There is no cost to have your photo taken and no obligation to purchase. If you would like to receive your photo proofs, please go to www.UniversityOfKentuckyPhotos.com to submit your information. If you have any questions regarding photos, please contact Pro Pics at support@propicsusa.com.
I'm graduating from the Lewis Honors College. How do I get my Honors medallion?
The Honors medallion is given to Honors graduates during the Honors Medal Ceremony, held prior to UK Commencement, each December and May.