Class of 2026

Stay Up to Date

• Sign up for updates. We recommend that students and their families/supporters sign up to receive texts and emails for updates concerning weather plan, schedule changes, and emergency notifications.
• Follow William & Mary Commencement on Facebook
• Download the W&M Mobile app and tap W&M Grad (available in early May).

Ticketing

Registration

Tickets are required for all guests attending the Main Ceremony Friday, May 16, in Zable Stadium. Class of 2026 graduates may request tickets during the Commencement registration period (Feb. 20 – March 22). Graduating students will receive an email in February with a registration link. Each graduate may initially request up to five guest tickets for the ceremony at Zable Stadium. During registration, graduates may also indicate if they wish to receive any additional tickets that become available after the period closes. Requests for extra tickets will be reviewed, and requestors will be notified in mid-April if they can be accommodated.

Distribution

All tickets are electronic and will be emailed to graduates in mid-May. Graduates must forward tickets to their guests, who may present them either printed or on a mobile device. Mobile tickets should be open and ready for scanning at the entry gate. Each ticket is valid for a single scan and may not be duplicated. Children age 2 and under do not need a ticket.

Inclement Weather

If severe weather occurs, the ceremony will move to Kaplan Arena. Due to limited indoor capacity, graduates will receive only three guest tickets, regardless of any additional requests. No exceptions can be made regarding ticket limits, but families and supporters can watch the event via livestream. 

Main Ceremony Run of Events

• Approximately two hours
• Keynote speaker, student speaker, honorary degree recipients, awards presentation and degree conferral
• Degrees conferred in groups by major
• Students do not cross the stage during the main ceremony
• Each graduate will be recognized individually at their departmental ceremony, where their name will be read aloud and they will receive their ceremonial diploma

Departmental Ceremonies & Receptions 

Each department will host its own smaller ceremony and/or reception during Commencement Weekend. At these events, students will walk across the stage to receive a ceremonial diploma and be recognized for their accomplishments. Students and guests will then have the opportunity to meet and connect with faculty and peers. Departments will send graduates specific instructions regarding these events. 

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Livestream

We will offer a livestream of the main ceremony.