Frequently Asked Questions

Ceremony Logistics

What are the guidelines and policies for bringing items into the Convocation Center?

Food Policy

  • No outside food or drink.
  • Exception: An unopened bottle of water (20 oz. or less) will be allowed.

Bag Policy

No large bags are allowed in the stadium for graduates or guests.
Guide to permitted and prohibited bags (PDF).

Approved bags:

  • One clear plastic bag
    • 12" x 12" x 6" clear plastic stadium bag
    • One (1) gallon clear plastic storage bag
      - or - 
  • One clutch purse
    4.5" x 6.5" or smaller

Prohibited bags:

  • Backpack
  • Large purse
  • Camera bag
  • Binoculars case
  • Fanny pack

Strollers are not allowed in the arena where the ceremonies are held due to the tiered seating

Updated 1/27/23

 

Guests and Tickets

Are tickets required for commencement?Updated

Tickets are required for the May 2024 commencement ceremony. Guests are encouraged to arrive early to ensure seating, as seating is first-come, first-served. Doors open an hour prior to the event, and guests should plan to allow time to park, get to the entrance and get through security.

Updated 3/4/24

How many guests am I able to invite?Updated

Once the graduate submits their RSVP, they are allotted 10 guest tickets. There won’t be additional tickets available. A guest ticket is required for children ages 3 and over.

Updated 3/4/24

Does the graduate need a ticket?Updated

No, graduates should wear regalia upon arrival in order to be directed to Victor E. Court to line up for the processional.

Updated 12/5/23

When will I be able to access my guest tickets?New

If you don't submit an RSVP by April 29, you won't be eligible for guest tickets.

Tickets will be put into student graduate accounts between May 8 and 10.

Please access and transfer your tickets as soon as you are notified they are available. Staff are busy preparing to celebrate you, and it is hard to answer lots of last minute emails about ticket access. Give yourself, your guests, and us as much time as possible to ensure things go smoothly.

What if accessing a smartphone or tablet is not an option?New

If someone doesn't have a smartphone or tablet to electronically receive a guest ticket, you can print your tickets as long as you view them as a PDF when you see that option appear. You can hold all the tickets on your own device arrive with your guests and scan them all at once. You can text a photo of the ticket, however, make sure they are individually identified as once one ticket is scanned, even from a photo, that ticket is no longer valid.

Should I download my tickets to my Apple or Google Wallets?New

Yes. While you are at home where WiFi is not being accessed by hundreds of guests, upload your tickets and save them in your device. This will avoid delays at the doors.

The Convocation Center and Huskie Athletics no longer uses Ticketmaster. Your accounts are set up through Paciolan.

Regalia and Programs

Do I have to do anything to receive my diploma?

No. Diplomas will be mailed directly from the vendor about six weeks after the ceremony. All graduation requirements need to have been met. Further, please note that you must clear any monetary or other obligations to the university to receive your diploma. You can check your diploma status after six to eight weeks.

Contact Us

Convocation Center
1525 West Lincoln Highway
DeKalb, IL 60115
815-752-6800
commencement@niu.edu
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