Frequently Asked Questions

UNH Commencement

What’s so special about this year’s commencement ceremonies?

If you are a graduating student from the class of 2021, or a new member of the Wildcat Alumni Community from the class of 2020 attending your commencement ceremony, then of course it is you! You are the reason why we love working at UNH, and you are the reason why we can’t wait to celebrate with you in May.

New this year: each student will be personally recognized by having his/her/their name called as they walk across the stage for a photo opportunity. You will look great on the Jumbotron!

Why do guests of graduating students require proof of being fully vaccinated (fully vaccinated defined as 2 weeks after an individual has received either two shots for Moderna, two shots for Pfizer, or one shot for Johnson and Johnson) OR, proof of a negative Covid test taken within 72 hours of attending a ceremony?

The UNH Durham campus has worked hard to mitigate Covid outbreaks through weekly testing of all those working or studying on campus thereby forming a community “testing bubble”. Inviting individuals outside of this testing bubble increases the risk of infection. Showing proof of being fully vaccinated, or, a negative Covid test lessens the chance of infection and/or severity of an infection for all those in attendance at the ceremonies.

Can you explain more about showing the vaccine card as proof of being fully vaccinated?

A vaccine card, given after your first shot and then updated if your vaccine requires a second one, includes the vaccine manufacturer, the dose numbers and the date and location each was administered. Individuals are considered fully vaccinated: 2 weeks after their second shot in a 2-dose series, like the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines, or 2 weeks after a single-shot vaccine, like Johnson & Johnson's Janssen vaccine.

What do guests need to bring with them to show proof of vaccination, OR, a negative Covid test taken within 72 hours of attending a ceremony?

A vaccine card. Please bring the actual card to the ceremony for screening – guests will not be admitted into the ceremony without proof of being fully vaccinated. OR;
A hard copy of negative Covid test results. Guests will not be admitted into the ceremony without a hard copy of test results taken within 72 hours of the ceremony. Please see below for an example of the testing window for the various ceremonies.

Ceremony attending	Date of ceremony	Testing window
Graduate School	Sunday, May 16, 10:00 am	Thursday, May 13 – Saturday, May 15
College of Health and Human Services	Friday, May 21, 10:00 am	Tuesday, May 18 – Thursday, May 20
College of Engineering and Physical Sciences and College of Life Sciences and Agriculture	Friday, May 21, 4:00 pm	Tuesday, May 18 – Thursday, May 20
The Paul College of Business and Economics	Saturday, May 22, 10:00 am	Wednesday, May 19 – Friday, May 21
College of Liberal Arts	Saturday, May 22, 4:00 pm	Wednesday, May 19 – Friday, May 21
Class of 2020	Sunday, May 23, 10:00 am	Thursday, May 20 – Saturday, May 22

What if I have tested positive for Covid in the last 90 days?

A positive COVID test means that you cannot test for 90 days. Once you are out of your isolation period proof of a positive COVID test in the last 90 days would count for a valid negative Covid test.

I have a huge family. Many family members would like to see me graduate – can I request more tickets to the ceremony?

You are limited to two tickets only. Allowing guests to attend the ceremony has been a challenging decision. We are planning our ceremonies prioritizing the health and safety of our community including students and guests. We have a strict formula for seating capacity and social distancing that prevents additional ticket distribution. Please do not ask for more or call-in favors! There will be no exceptions to help ensure our collective health and safety.
Good news! All of your family members will be able to watch you graduate virtually as every ceremony will be live streamed. More details regarding how to virtually access the ceremony will be forthcoming.

I am a graduating student in the Class of 2021. What do I need to do to attend my commencement ceremony?

If you haven’t done so, register by clicking here to receive details about attending your college-specific commencement ceremony.
Have you ordered your Cap & Gown? Do that right now. Literally stop what you are doing and order you cap and gown right now by clicking here. You are running out of time to have your regalia shipped to you in time for your ceremony. You will be unable to attend the ceremony without your cap & gown. Plus you will look out-of-place among all your friends who ordered their cap & gown on time. The deadline is April 16.
If you have participated in the weekly testing program on campus, you will need to show a valid Wildcat Pass to gain entry into the ceremony.
If you HAVE NOT participated in the weekly testing program, you will need to show proof of being fully vaccinated (fully vaccinated defined as 2 weeks after an individual has received either two shots for Moderna, two shots for Pfizer, or one shot for Johnson and Johnson), OR, proof of a negative Covid test taken within 72 hours of attending a ceremony. This means you will not be able to gain entry into the ceremony without your vaccine card, OR, a hard copy of your negative Covid test. Please see below for an example of the testing window for the various ceremonies.
Looking for commencement merchandise to commemorate this special occasion? Click here to shop for UNH gifts and merchandise.

I am attending the ceremony as a member of the Class of 2020. What do I need to do to attend my commencement ceremony?

Register by clicking here to receive details about attending your commencement ceremony on Sunday, May 23 at 10:00 am.
Have you ordered your Cap & Gown? Do that right now. Literally stop what you are doing and order you cap and gown right now by clicking here. You are running out of time to have your regalia shipped to you in time for your ceremony. You will be unable to attend the ceremony without your cap & gown. Plus you will look out-of-place among all your friends who ordered their cap & gown on time. The deadline is April 16th.
You will need to show proof of being fully vaccinated (fully vaccinated defined as 2 weeks after an individual has received either two shots for Moderna, two shots for Pfizer, or one shot for Johnson and Johnson), OR, proof of a negative Covid test taken within 72 hours of attending a ceremony. This means you will not be able to gain entry into the ceremony without your vaccine card, OR, a hard copy of your negative Covid test. Please see below for an example of the testing window for the various ceremonies.
Looking for commencement merchandise to commemorate this special occasion? Click here to shop for UNH gifts and merchandise.

I am a graduating Masters or Doctoral candidate. What do I need to do to attend my commencement ceremony?

If you haven’t done so, register by clicking here to receive details about attending your college-specific commencement ceremony.
Have you ordered your Cap & Gown? Do that right now. Literally stop what you are doing and order you cap and gown right now by clicking here. You are running out of time to have your regalia shipped to you in time for your ceremony. You will be unable to attend the ceremony without your cap & gown. Plus you will look out-of-place among all your friends who ordered their cap & gown on time. The deadline is April 16th.
If you have participated in the weekly testing program on campus, you will need to show a valid Wildcat Pass to gain entry into the ceremony.
If you HAVE NOT participated in the weekly testing program, you will need to show proof of being fully vaccinated (fully vaccinated defined as 2 weeks after an individual has received either two shots for Moderna, two shots for Pfizer, or one shot for Johnson and Johnson), OR, proof of a negative Covid test taken within 72 hours of attending a ceremony. This means you will not be able to gain entry into the ceremony without your vaccine card, OR, a hard copy of your negative Covid test. Please see below for an example of the testing window for the various ceremonies.
Looking for commencement merchandise to commemorate this special occasion? Click here to shop for UNH gifts and merchandise.

What safety guidelines will be in place during the ceremony?

Masks required
Social distancing required and monitored
If you feel sick – please do not attend the ceremony!

What additional safety precautions should be taken when attending the ceremonies?

Always wear a mask to protect yourself and others and stop the spread of COVID-19.

Stay at least 6 feet (about 2 arm lengths) from others who do not live with you.
Clean your hands often, either with soap and water for 20 seconds or a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.

How do I get my cap & gown?

Students should purchase their cap and gown by April 16^th in order to ensure delivery in time for the ceremony. Click here to order now: www.buildagrad.com/unh

How will my guests receive their tickets?

Tickets will be mailed to the address provided for members of the class of 2020, and students attending the Graduate School ceremony. Students in the Class of 2021 will be able to pick up their tickets on campus during the week of May 10^th. Additional information about ticket pickup for the class of 2021 is forthcoming.

Will parking be available?

Parking will be available in limited capacity on campus. Students can park in B Lot or Campus Crossing. Guests will be directed to either West Edge or a parking lot located at 121 Technology Drive depending on which ceremony they are attending. Guests will be shuttled by bus to the stadium from their assigned parking lot. Students who have guests utilizing wheelchairs or scooters should contact the commencement office at commencement@unh.edu for ADA parking information. All other campus parking lots will be closed.

When should my guests arrive on campus to allow enough time to be screened and get to their seats?

Guests should plan to arrive to campus 2 hours prior to their ceremony time to ensure time to locate your assigned parking lot, go through the check in process and take the bus to the stadium.

I am a graduating student from the Class of 2021 walking out the door to attend my ceremony – what do I need?

If you have not been participating in the weekly Covid testing program on campus: Hard copy of test OR vaccination proof
- Hard copy of a negative Covid test taken within 72 hours of attending the ceremony. OR
- A vaccine card as proof of being fully vaccinated (fully vaccinated defined as 2 weeks after an individual has received either two shots for Moderna, two shots for Pfizer, or one shot for Johnson and Johnson).
If you have been participating in the weekly Covid testing program on campus: Show your approved Wildcat Pass
Confirm your guests have their vaccine card, or proof of a negative Covid test taken within 72 hours of the ceremony, and their tickets (guests will not be admitted without vaccine cards, OR test results, and original tickets to the ceremony.)
Parking information for you and your guests.
Discuss with your guests: Guests should arrive 2 hours prior to the ceremony to park and get on a shuttle to Wildcat Stadium.
Cap & Gown
Comfortable shoes
Hand sanitizer

I am a graduating student from the Class of 2020 walking out the door to attend my ceremony – what do I need?

Hard copy of negative Covid test or vaccination proof
- Hard copy of a negative Covid test taken within 72 hours of attending the ceremony. OR
- A vaccine card as proof of being fully vaccinated (fully vaccinated defined as 2 weeks after an individual has received either two shots for Moderna, two shots for Pfizer, or one shot for Johnson and Johnson).
Confirm your guests have their vaccine card, OR, proof of a negative Covid test taken within 72 hours of the ceremony, and their tickets (guests will not be admitted without vaccine cards, or test result and original tickets to the ceremony.)
Cap & Gown
Comfortable shoes
Hand sanitizer
Parking information for you and your guests
Discuss with your guests: Guests should arrive 2 hours prior to the ceremony to park and get on a shuttle to Wildcat Stadium.

I am a graduate student from the class of 2020 or 2021 walking out the door to attend my ceremony – what do I need?

If you have not been participating in the weekly Covid testing program on campus: Hard copy of negative Covid test, OR, proof of vaccination.
- Hard copy of a negative Covid test taken within 72 hours of attending the ceremony. OR
- A vaccine card as proof of being fully vaccinated (fully vaccinated defined as 2 weeks after an individual has received either two shots for Moderna, two shots for Pfizer, or one shot for Johnson and Johnson).
If you have been participating in the weekly Covid testing program on campus: Show your approved Wildcat Pass.
Confirm your guests have their vaccine card, OR, proof of a negative Covid test taken within 72 hours of the ceremony, and their tickets (guests will not be admitted without vaccination cards, or test result and original tickets to the ceremony)
Parking information for you and your guests.
Discuss with your guests: Guests should arrive 2 hours prior to the ceremony to park and get on a shuttle to Wildcat Stadium.
Cap & Gown: Master’s students wear hoods. PhD candidates carry hoods.
Comfortable shoes
Hand sanitizer

Will all graduates’ names be called at Commencement and will they walk across the stage?

Yes student's names will be called as the walk across a stage and have their photo taken.

How do I know if I can participate in Commencement (i.e., I graduated in September or December 2020)?

Please view the criteria for eligibility to participate.

What if I do not meet these requirements?

If students do not meet these requirements due to internships, etc. They need to file petitions to walk or a petition for a variance with their dean’s office – usually it is directed to the associate deans. COLA is in Murkland, COLSA is in Rudman, CEPS is in Kingsbury, Paul College is in Paul, HHS is in Hewitt, and Continuing Ed is in Hood.

How do I know if I'm registered to walk?

You must register online to walk at the Commencement ceremony. You will receive an email confirmation upon registration.

How many guests can I invite? Do they need tickets?

Due to social distancing requirements, each student will be given two tickets for their guests. Ticketing information will be released later in the semester.

I have family members who will be traveling from outside the United States. How do I get a letter of invitation for them to use for visa application purposes?

We can provide you with the necessary letter, the information is located on our website under the "International Travel Invitation Letter" tab.

Where and when do I get my cap and gown?

Please place your order by April 9th to guarantee delivery in time for your ceremony.

View information on caps and gowns.

What time should guests and candidates (those graduating) arrive?

The stadium will open one hour prior to the start of the ceremony for both guests and candidates.

Will there be a processional?

	Due to social distancing requirements we will not have a processional. Students should proceed directly to their seats on the field.

How long is the ceremony?

	The ceremony is expected to last 1.5 - 2 hours.

Will I get my diploma that day?

As in years past, the actual diploma will be mailed by the Office of the Registrar several weeks after Commencement. Diplomas are processed approximately eight to ten weeks after commencement and will be mailed to students' home addresses. All students should make sure their address is updated.

How will I get my diploma cover?

Diploma covers will be distributed at the Commencement ceremony. Please contact commencement@unh.edu with questions. Students who do not plan to attend commencement must contact the Commencement Office to have your diploma cover shipped to your home address (for a small fee).

Can I decorate my mortarboard?

Yes.

How do I get my picture taken?

All students will have their photo taken by a company called Grad Images as they walk across the stage. Those photos will be emailed to you after the ceremony. Communications and Public Affairs will be capturing candid moments at Commencement from beginning to end. These images will be available online at Flickr. Images will be continually added over several days following the ceremony.

How do I order graduation announcements?

	For custom graduation announcements and UNH class rings, please click here. Information regarding qualifications for Latin Honors, which is sometimes on graduation announcements, can be obtained from the Registrar's Office.

Will my local newspaper be notified that I'm graduating?

UNH Communications and Public Affairs, in cooperation with the Registrar’s Office, sends the names of students who have graduated (coincides with Commencement) to the student’s hometown newspaper(s) based on the student’s registered address. Individual newspapers control when and if they publish the provided information.

Click here for additional information on submitting information regarding student achievements.

Is the ceremony location dependent upon weather?

	The ceremony takes place outdoors rain or shine. Regardless of weather, there will be a live simulcast in Lundholm Gymnasium for those individuals who would be more comfortable viewing the ceremony from indoors.

I have a relative or friend who has mobility impairments. What special accommodations are there?

Students have the opportunity to identify their guests with mobility impairments on their registration form. Guests utilizing wheelchairs or scooters will have access to ADA seating and parking.

How do I nominate a recipient for Honorary Degrees or other Commencement awards?

Click here

If you have any questions, please contact commencement.awards@unh.edu.

Can I bring my dog?

For the health and safety of our guests, and the cleanliness of our event grounds, dogs of any type/size, with the exception of service dogs, are not permitted at the UNH Commencement ceremony. Please do not bring your dogs to campus. Event staff and University Police will enforce this policy.

What happens if I can't/don't attend?

Attendance is completely voluntary; diplomas will be mailed several weeks after the ceremony, and choosing to bypass the ceremony will not affect your graduation status. However, given the event’s special significance for graduates and their families and friends, we encourage you to participate.

What cord colors can we get for our student organization or academic group?

UNH is currently evaluating the Commencement cord policy and a committee of faculty and staff representatives will soon make a final decision. We will communicate any changes or updates to you as soon as we hear back from that group.

Will there be a separate Honors Convocation?

No, due to the pandemic, the Honors Convocation will be combined with the Commencement Ceremonies this year. Eligible students will be given their cords and/or stoles prior to the ceremony.

Will masks be required?

Yes, masks will be required at all time. Additional COVID-19 safety information will be announced closer to the ceremonies.

Will the ceremonies be live-streamed?

Yes! You will be able to watch them here: http://unh.edu/liveevents/

Can I sit with my friends?

Students will be assigned seating alphabetically by college six feed apart on the field.

Can my family sit anywhere in the stadium?

Ticketing for guests will include assigned seating to accommodate for social distancing.

I have another question. Who can I contact?

If you have additional questions that were not answered above, please contact commencement@unh.edu.

University Ceremonies and Events