How will SAS communicate with me about graduation activities?
SAS Master's and PhD Recipients who graduated in August 2024, December 2024, or have applied to graduate in May 2025 will receive email communications from SAS in early March. This will include information regarding the Graduate Division's graduation ceremony, including guest tickets and how to RSVP.
What is the difference between the SAS Graduate Division ceremony and the University ceremony on Monday?
Students attending the SAS Graduate Division ceremony for their degree will have their name individually called on stage, receive a “diploma,” and pose for a photo with the Graduate Dean. Students attending the University ceremony on Monday will join all graduates from across Penn and will not be individually recognized.
Do participating students need to register for the Graduate Division ceremony?
Yes. Registration is required for participation in the Graduate Division's graduation ceremony on May 16. You will receive an email within a week of applying to graduate inviting you to register and how to receive tickets for your guests.
How do I order academic regalia?
Academic regalia is required for degree candidates at Commencement. All candidates who do not possess regalia must obtain their regalia from the Penn Bookstore, located at 36th and Walnut Streets. Detailed information is available on Grad Express.
Custom doctoral regalia is typically chosen by doctoral candidates who plan to frequently participate in academic ceremonies requiring such attire. Please keep in mind that doctoral candidates are not required to purchase custom regalia and may find it more economical to choose the standard doctoral regalia. Custom doctoral regalia can only be obtained by having it shipped directly to you. You must place your order by March 7, 2025, to receive the regalia by Commencement. Shipping fees apply. To order regalia, visit Grad Express.
Where and when is the ceremony?
The 2025 SAS Graduation Ceremony will be held on Friday, May 16, 2025 at 10:00 AM, in Irvine Auditorium.
What time should I arrive and where should I go?
It is imperative that graduating students arrive at Irvine Auditorium dressed in academic regalia promptly by 9:00 a.m. Staff will help direct you to the check-in area downstairs split by graduate groups.
Is there accessible seating?
Irvine Auditorium is ADA accessible and accessibility information can be found here. If any of your guests need accommodations, please reach out directly to the Graduate Division team at grad-dean@sas.upenn.edu.
Is there assigned seating for guests?
No. Every guest (including children) must have a ticket to gain entrance. All seating is general admission, outside of the graduates section.
As an international student, how do I request a formal invitation letter for my intended guests?
The Department of State accepts invitation letters written by students as a supplemental document for their visitors to apply for a visa to come to the U.S. You do not need a separate support letter from ISSS in order to invite a family member to visit the United States. ISSS has conveniently prepared a template to help craft your invitation letter here.
When will I receive my diploma?
The School of Arts and Sciences does not distribute official diplomas at the graduation ceremony. The Office of the University Secretary will begin to mail diplomas approximately eight to ten weeks following the official degree conferral date. Additional information about diplomas is available here.
Hotels and restaurants for guests: