Graduation Day FAQ

Here are some questions that students often ask as we approach the day of the event.

Where do I go and what time should I arrive?
Please arrive promptly by 3:45 pm at Hill Field between 33rd and 34th street on Chestnut with your Academic Regalia and weather appropriate shoes. The robing tent will be marked and this will be where all students line up to process into the ceremony tent that is located next door.  Look for the sign associated with your program BA, MLA, MES, MSAG, etc and check in with the person in that area who is holding the clipboard.

What if I forgot to order my regalia from the Bookstore?
Call Dawn Easley at 215-746-7040 by Friday, May 15 at noon.

Where will the graduates process?
Weather permitting the graduates will emerge from the robing tent and walk down Chestnut toward 33rd street, make a right onto the sidewalk and follow the sidewalk back toward 34th street and then head into the rear of the Ceremony tent.  Inclement weather may require a shorter procession.

What time does the ceremony start?
The LPS Graduation Ceremony will start promptly at 4:30 pm with a reception at the Inn at Penn following the ceremony.  Reception tickets are required for the Inn at Penn and are limited to 5 per student.  These were mailed to you when you RSVP’d.

How many friends and family members can come to the reception?
Reception tickets are required for admission to the reception and each student who RSVP'd was sent 5 tickets.  Tickets are limited to 5 per student. If you need extra tickets check with your classmates who may not be using all of theirs.

What should I do if it rains on May 17?
Still report to Hill Field and arrive promptly by 3:45pm between 33rd and 34th street on Chestnut  with your Academic Regalia and weather appropriate shoes. The Robing tent will be marked and this will be where all students will line up prior to the procession to the ceremony which will take place in the tent next door.  Inclement weather has a tendency to create a muddy terrain on Hill Field and you are encouraged to wear shoes that will allow you to navigate comfortably in wet weather. The LPS graduation is held rain or shine and is held in a large tent (friends and family will not be sitting outside in the rain).

When will I receive my diploma?
The College of Liberal and Professional Studies does not distribute diplomas at the LPS Graduation Ceremony. For May graduates, the University Secretary’s office will begin to mail out diplomas in mid-July to your permanent address as it appears in the Student Record System (SRS). It is essential that you confirm that the information on record is accurate. Please check this information on Penn In Touch. If you need assistance checking or updating your permanent address, please call the College of Liberal and Professional Studies at 215-898-7326.

Have other questions about graduation? Call Dawn Easley at 215-746-7040 or e-mail lps@sas.upenn.edu