Academic ceremonies | SMU

Academic ceremonies | SMU Academic ceremonies SMU maintains a special level of excellence when it comes to recognizing our esteemed graduates and welcoming their guests for memory-making moments. Academic ceremonies May commencement weekend Baccalaureate and Rotunda Recessional Friday, May 15, 2026, at 5 p.m. McFarlin Auditorium All-University Commencement Saturday, May 16, 2026, at 7 p.m. Gerald J. Ford Stadium Ticketing and regalia Tickets for academic ceremonies must be requested for students and guests for each event. Each event will have different attendance requirements. Students are responsible for knowing their degree type and discipline color when placing their regalia orders. Tickets Regalia Parking and security Campus event parking instructions and security policies for academic ceremonies. Parking & Security Graduation and diploma services Commencement participation is determined by fulfillment of degree requirements. Participation eligibility for commencement ceremonies may vary by the timing of degree completion. To participate in a ceremony, you must apply online and file an Application for Candidacy to Graduate or an Intent to Participate form with your school’s records office. Find more resources Graduates Guests Livestream Everyone is encouraged to join the celebration! If you are unable to attend the All-University Commencement, Convocation or Baccalaureate ceremony in person, you may watch online. Livestream Search the SMU website Submit Popular Searches Current Students Majors and Minors Undergraduate Admission | SMU Graduate Admission Faculty & Staff Graduate Programs Alumni Did you know? SMU's singular approach to integrating rigorous learning with hands-on experience will prepare you to achieve your educational goals and expand your world in ways you never imagined. Ours is a community of people forging their own paths. We'd like to help you shape yours. Plan your visit