Frequently Asked Questions
- Why is the Spring 2023 Ceremony being held in the AAMU Event Center?
The University is hosting the ceremony in the Event Center to provide a venue large enough to support necessary safety protocols while allowing graduates to have guests.
For those who are unable to attend the ceremony, AAMU will provide a live web-stream of the ceremony on the Commencement website.
Back to Top - When is the ceremony and what time will it start?
The Spring 2023 Commencement Ceremony will be on May 5, 2023 at 9:00 a.m. for GRADUATE candidates and 5:00 p.m. for UNDERGRADUATE candidates.
Back to Top - What time should graduates arrive at the Event Center?
Graduates should arrive at the Event Center and be seated no later than an hour prior to the start of the ceremony. Graduates will enter Event Center on the visitor side entrance.
Back to Top - What time can guests arrive at the Event Center?
Guest can arrive one hour and a half prior to the ceremony.
Back to Top - What time will the ceremony end?
The ceremony is expected to last approximately two hours.
Back to Top - What safety measures are in place for commencement?
Due to COVID-19, the following additional safety protocols will be in place:
- Face Coverings: Recommended for all graduates, participants and guests. Everyone entering the Event Center is encouraged to wear a mask or face covering.
- Are bags or purses allowed in the Event Center?
The following AAMU Athletics safety protocols will be in place for all guests entering AAMU Event Center:
Guests are allowed to carry the following style and size of bag, package, or container into the event center:
- Bags that are clear plastic, vinyl or PVC and do not exceed 12" x 6" x 12", permitting a small clutch purse (4 ½” by 6 ½”) with or without a handle or strap or one-gallon clear plastic freezer bags (Ziploc bags or similar)
- Metal Detectors: Guests are required to pass through metal detectors.
The University strongly encourages all guests not to bring unauthorized types of bags (including purses, backpacks, etc.) to the Event Center.
Back to Top - Will graduates be limited in the number of guests they bring?
Yes, Tickets are required for the UNDERGRADUATE Ceremony. Each undergraduate candidate will receive eight tickets each.
Back to Top - Where can graduates and guests park?
Event Center and surrounding areas.
Back to Top - What should candidates wear under their regalia?
- Ladies – black dress or black skirt with white blouse and black shoes
- Men – white shirt with dark tie, black pants and black shoes
- Please be mindful that all graduates will be asked to remove or lift up their gown upon entering the Event Center.
- What should guest wear?
Guests should dress comfortably.
Back to Top - Can guests go onto the floor after the ceremony?
No, guests are not permitted on the floor.
Back to Top - Will professional photos be taken when the students cross the stage?
Yes, Zapfotos will take pictures of each graduate as they walk across the stage. Proofs can be viewed and purchased online within two weeks of the commencement ceremony. A proof will be mailed to graduates. Personal pictures should be taken either before or after the ceremony.
Back to Top - Can guests take photos?
Flash photography and large, free-standing cameras are not permitted. Phones and small cameras are allowed.
Back to Top - How do graduates get their diploma?
Diplomas will be mailed to graduates.
Back to Top - Will there be graduation program?
Yes
Back to Top - DO I NEED TICKETS?
Yes, for the UNDERGRADUATE Ceremony ONLY!
Back to Top - HOW CAN I GET AN OFFICIAL TRANSCRIPT THAT SHOWS MY DEGREE?
All requests for transcripts MUST be submitted using the online ordering system available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Transcripts cannot be produced for students that have a financial obligation to the university. More information on How to Order your Official Transcript.
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