Helpful Hints
Understand the difference between graduation and commencement.
Graduation is the actual awarding of degrees. Upon certification of satisfactory completion of all degree requirements, the students' degrees are awarded and added to their official academic records. The date of degree conferral is the official graduation date for that term, and is the date that appears on the students' diplomas and transcripts. Official diplomas are mailed to students following degree conferral and once all financial obligations to the university have been cleared.
Commencement is a ceremonial exercise. Once students are eligible to graduate in a specific semester they may participate in a commencement ceremony. Commencement gives the students the opportunity to be recognized for their accomplishments by their families, friends and the university community. Participation in commencement, however, does not guarantee a student's graduation, and official diplomas are not awarded at the ceremony.
Don’t worry about tickets.
They are no longer required for Georgia State University Commencement. Bring as many friends and family as you’d like.
Don’t bring food, drink, balloons or noisemakers.
These items are not allowed into the Georgia Dome. Food and beverages will be available to purchase in the Georgia Dome from noon to 1:45 p.m.
Pick a place to meet.
To avoid confusion after the ceremony, candidates and guests often pick a specific place to meet beforehand.
Allow ample parking time.
Please allow ample time to park before the ceremony due to the large number of guests attending.
Remember your camera.
Parents and guests will have the opportunity to photograph and videotape their graduate at any time, though they will not be allowed on the floor of the Georgia Dome. Photo opportunities will be available throughout other areas of the building following the ceremony.
Professional photographs will be taken of each candidate as they process during the ceremony. A proof of the photograph will be sent to the candidate's home address as it was listed through the Graduation Office.
Understand commencement etiquette.
While recognizing that commencement is truly a celebration for graduates, it is important for parents, guests and students to acknowledge that it is a formal academic ceremony to be conducted with respect and dignity. Please turn off all cell phones during the ceremony and remain seated for the duration of the ceremony.