Class of 2023

Stay Up to Date

Want to stay up to date? 

• Sign-up for updates. Provide a mobile # to receive text messages throughout the weekend. We also recommend parents and family members provide an email address in order to receive timely updates leading up to Commencement.
• Like our Facebook page.
• Follow us on Twitter.
• Download the W&M Mobile app and tap W&M Grad (available late April through Commencement Weekend).

Registration & Tickets

Class of 2023 graduates will have an opportunity to request tickets during the Commencement registration period (February 24 - March 24).  Graduating students will receive an email on Feb. 24 with the registration link. Each graduate may initially request up to 6 guest tickets for the ceremony in Zable stadium. Graduates will also be able to indicate if they would like to request any additional tickets that may be available after registration has ended. We will notify you in mid-April if you are able to receive additional tickets.

In the event of severe weather, the ceremony will be moved indoors to Kaplan Arena. Due to limited seating capacity inside Kaplan, graduates will receive fewer guest tickets for the indoor location (exact number to be determined, after registration has closed). 

Tickets are electronic and will be emailed to graduates in mid-May. They may then forward the tickets to their guests to display on their phone, or they may print out their tickets to be scanned. If using a phone, they should have the tickets open and ready for scanning when they reach the entry gate. Each ticket scans only once, so electronic tickets may not be duplicated. 

Main Ceremony

•  Friday, May 19 from 7:00-9:00 p.m.
  • Keynote speaker, student speaker, honorary degree recipients, awards, degree conferral
  • Degrees conferred in groups, by major
  • Students do not cross the stage at the main ceremony
  • Each graduate will be recognized individually at their departmental ceremony on Saturday, at which time they will have their name read aloud and receive their diploma
  • See ceremony instructions for additional information for grads
• See the weekend schedule of events for details.

Graduation Event Traditions

• Senior Class Dance: Wednesday, May 17 (9:00 p.m. - midnight)
• Candlelight Ceremony: Thursday, May 18 (9:30 p.m.) - Wren Yard
• Walk Across Campus (preceding each ceremony):
  • Friday, May 19 at 6:00 p.m.
• See the weekend schedule of events for details.

Department and School Ceremonies and/or Receptions 

Each department will host their own smaller ceremony and/or reception on Saturday. Students will receive their diplomas and students and guests will have an opportunity to meet and connect with faculty. Some departments will send specific instructions to graduates about their plans. Recommended parking areas for these events are available.

Livestream

We will offer live audio and video streaming of the main Commencement ceremony on Friday, May 19. The broadcast will be available for those who cannot attend.