FAQs

Graduates may not bring bags onto Francis Olympic Field, as the regalia has pockets for small items. Graduates may bring a water bottle.

For guests, WashU prohibits all bags, backpacks, and other carriers from being brought into the ceremony with the following exceptions:

• Clear bags, not to exceed 14″ x 14″ x 4″
• Small clutches or purses, not to exceed 4″ x 6″
• Medically necessary bags, including diaper bags

All approved bags are subject to inspection upon entry. Guests with bags or items that do not satisfy the bag policy are encouraged to return their bags or items to their vehicle. WashU will not provide clear bags. All attendees, including graduates, will need to go through metal detectors upon entry. 

The following items are prohibited in all university and school ceremonies and events, and are subject to confiscation:

• Air horns and other artificial noisemakers
• Animals, except assistance animals
• Banners or signs larger than 2’ x 3’ (no poles of any kind will be allowed)
• Food and drink (except water)
• Firearms and weapons
• Lasers/Laser lights
• Balloons, glitter and confetti
• Unmanned aircrafts and drones

Yes, tickets are required for guests to attend the May university-wide Commencement ceremony. Tickets will be emailed directly to graduating students. Students are responsible for sharing the ticket with their guests. Virtual and printed tickets will be accepted.

Yes, flowers and gifts will be available for purchase at the May university-wide Commencement Ceremony and at the Commencement Festival.

Pre-orders will be available in Spring 2026.

Guests may park in any campus garage. Space is limited, please arrive early and plan accordingly. Alternatively, guests may utilize Rideshare or the St. Louis Metrolink. Please visit our Visiting Campus in May page for more information.

ADA drop-off will be available in the surface lot in front of Francis Olympic Field. Please display your ADA parking tag when parking.

A limited number of wheelchairs will be available for reservation. Please check back in Spring 2026 for the wheelchair reservation link.

An ADA entrance and seating will be available on Francis Olympic Field.

Guests are encouraged to dress appropriately for the weather. Most guests wear comfortable, business casual clothing. Comfortable shoes and flats are recommended.

All graduates are required to wear regalia at the ceremony.

Yes, graduation regalia is required to participate in all Commencement events, including December Recognition and the May university-wide Commencement ceremony.

Information about diplomas may be found on the Office of the University Registrar website. Any additional questions or comments should be sent to diplomaservices@wustl.edu along with your student ID number.

Per the Office of International Students and Scholars, invitation letters are no longer required for visa appointments. If you have further questions regarding visa applications for your family, please email oiss@wustl.edu or you may contact your OISS advisor directly at https://oiss.washu.edu/find-my-oiss-adviser/

Graduates may not bring bags into the Athletic Complex. Please plan accordingly.

For guests, the following types of bags will be allowed into the Athletic Complex:

• Clear bags, not to exceed 14” x 14” x 4″
• Small wallets or purses not to exceed 4” x 6”
• Diaper bags and medically necessary equipment may be allowed after inspection

All approved bags are subject to inspection upon entry. Guests with bags or items that do not satisfy the bag policy are encouraged to return their bags or items to their vehicle.

The following items are prohibited in all university and school ceremonies and events, and are subject to confiscation:

• Air horns and other artificial noisemakers
• Animals, except assistance animals
• Banners or signs larger than 2’ x 3’ (no poles of any kind will be allowed)
• Food and drink (except water)
• Firearms and weapons
• Lasers/Laser lights
• Balloons, glitter and confetti
• Unmanned aircrafts and drones

Yes, tickets are required for guests to attend the December Recognition ceremony. Tickets will be emailed directly to graduating students. Students are responsible for sharing the ticket with their guests. Virtual and printed tickets will be accepted.

Yes, flowers and gifts will be available for purchase at the December Recognition Ceremony. Graduates and guests can also pre-order flowers and gifts through Bear Necessities for pick-up at the ceremony.

Guests are encouraged to park in the Snow Way Garage or Danforth University Center (DUC) Garage. Please visit our Visiting Campus in December page for more information.

ADA drop-off and accessible parking will be available in the surface lot in front of the Athletic Complex. Please display your ADA parking tag when parking.

A limited number of wheelchairs will be available for reservation. Guests in need of a wheelchair should visit our Wheelchair Reservation page for more information on how to reserve by December 8, 2025.

ADA seating will be available on the lower level of the Field House.