Spring 2023 Commencement is fast approaching! Here are some details to make sure you are prepared for the big day. Please follow these detailed instructions to ensure a successful graduation.

Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Law Degree Candidate Ceremony
Saturday, May 13, 2023 | Noon
Camp Randall, 1440 Monroe Street

The ceremony will begin promptly at noon and will last approximately 90 minutes. No tickets are required, and there is no limit to the number of guests you may bring.

When should I arrive at Camp Randall, and where do I go?

The graduate entrance is located at Gate 5 (the student gate for football games) of Camp Randall Stadium. This is the only gate with access to candidate seating. Guests can enter the stadium through Gates 1, 7, 8, 9, and 10. Gates open at 10 a.m. 

Please be seated by 11:10 a.m. Graduates arriving late will be redirected to late arrival seating sections in the stands.

Once in the stadium, you’ll receive a bottle of water, a rally towel, and a printed program. Commencement marshals in cardinal academic attire will be available throughout the candidate seating area to help you find a seat. Degree candidate seating will be designated by school, college, and degree type on the field, according to this graduate seating map. This is the largest graduating class, so we encourage graduates to arrive early, if possible. Seating is first come, first served, and some graduates will be seated in the stands. 

Please note: the Camp Randall carry-in policy is in place — this means no backpacks, no food or beverages, and no selfie sticks. Please take a moment to review the other prohibited items, as they must be left at the gate and will be disposed of accordingly. 

What accessibility options are available at Camp Randall?

If you are a graduate in need of accessibility accommodations, please review our accessibility resources and email accessibility@chancellor.wisc.edu to make arrangements for a celebratory experience.

If you have a guest in need of accommodations, please visit the commencement website for more information on Camp Randall accessibility.

Where do I pick up my cap and gown?

Cap and gown rentals can be picked up at the University Book Store (711 State Street). Questions about cap and gown rental should be directed to the University Book Store at 608-257-3784, extension 5924.

Where should I park? 

We encourage you and your guests to seek parking away from Camp Randall, ideally at the west end of campus. Residence hall move-out will be occurring simultaneously with commencement, which will result in significant traffic congestion. 

Most university parking lots will be free and open to the public from noon on Friday, May 12, through 2 p.m. on Sunday, May 14 (no overnight parking). Parking zones and construction updates can be found on this Transportation Services map. A complimentary shuttle will run through campus from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday, May 13. If you and your guests are able, walking is a great option, and many downtown hotels also offer a shuttle service.

Will there be professional photography at Camp Randall? 

You will have the opportunity to have your graduate portrait taken by Empire Photography as you enter the stadium. You will be asked to provide your name, campus ID, and phone number for a link of photo proofs to be sent to you. This information will not be used for any other purposes beyond your photo proofs. Photo stations will be available after the ceremony concludes for any graduate who did not get their photo taken before the start of the ceremony.

What happens if it rains?

The weather in May can be unpredictable. Please dress accordingly, as the ceremony is outdoors and open to the elements. The ceremony will take place rain, snow, or shine. Only in the event of severe weather would a delay or cancellation occur. Updates regarding weather will be posted to the commencement website, Twitter, and Instagram. Any severe weather adjustments would be sent out through the WiscAlert system to notify graduates of important changes to the schedule.

Where will the livestream be playing?

A livestream of the ceremony will be available on our website. If you can’t attend in person, you can watch live, or at a time that works best for you to celebrate.

What else do I need to know?

Graduates are encouraged to designate a post-ceremony meeting place with guests outside of Camp Randall. Guests will not be allowed on the field at any time. Graduates can exit by gates in the north end zone (near Section Q and J), Gate 5, and Gate 10 in the south end zone. 

What other events are happening related to commencement?

Each school, college, program, or community space may host its own celebration event during commencement weekend. Questions about these events should be directed to your school or college.

Congratulations, soon-to-be graduates; we look forward to celebrating with you at Camp Randall!