Frequently Asked Questions

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Frequently Asked Questions

All activities related to Commencement are managed by the Office of University Events and Protocol, Anthony Hall Room 015, (618) 453-7424. Email us at events@siu.edu.  

Where is the commencement ceremony taking place?

The December commencement ceremony will be held at the Banterra Center, 1400 Arena Drive, Carbondale, Illinois.

Plans could change if COVID-19 restrictions are increased. Regular updates will be emailed to students, as well as posted on the Commencement website and on social media. All participants and guests must wear masks. Please monitor commencement.siu.edu for updates. 

When should I arrive for commencement?

The Banterra Center will open for seating at 12:30 p.m. on Saturday, December 11. Graduates should arrive no later than 1:15 p.m. 

Graduate Information will be available in the First-Mid Bank Saluki Lounge inside the Banterra Center. Graduates are not required to check in. Graduation Information is only for those students who are missing an item for the ceremony (cord, medallion, regalia, reader card). Graduates who need something from Graduation Information are advised to arrive early to avoid crowds and delays.

Graduates (bachelor’s, Master’s, and doctoral) should proceed directly to the floor for seating. Graduates will not process into Saluki Stadium.

What COVID-19 Safety Protocols will be in place?

All ceremonies will be conducted according to the protocols required by the Restore Illinois Plan. Face masks will be required for all participants, guests, and staff. Students or guests should not attend Commencement if they have any symptoms of COVID-19 (including but not limited to fever, cough, shortness of breath), have tested positive for COVID-19 in the last 14 days, or have been exposed to someone who tested positive for COVID-19 in the last 14 days. Graduates who are unable to participate due to illness, exposure, or safety concerns may participate in a future Commencement ceremony. All ceremonies will be broadcast live online for those who are unable to attend.

Will I need a ticket to attend?

At this time, the December commencement ceremony will not be a ticketed event. 

Will there be a sign language interpreter?

There will be an American Sign Language interpreter at the commencement ceremony.

When will I receive my diploma?

Pending successful completion of your degree requirements and after all outstanding financial obligations to the University have been met, you will receive your diploma via United States Postal Service. The process of degree evaluation, degree posting, and diploma mailing takes up to ten weeks after the end of the graduation term. Doctoral graduates will receive their diploma after the ceremony, if all financial obligations to the University have been met.