UGA Fall 2025 Commencement: What Online Graduates Need to Know
UGA Fall 2025 Commencement: What Online Graduates Need to Know
Winter graduation is almost here. Whether you’re earning your master’s or a graduate certificate through UGA Online, this season marks the finish line you’ve been working toward—on your schedule, in your way, and with recognition that’s well deserved.
Here’s what you need to know for UGA’s Fall 2025 Graduate Commencement, whether you’re attending in person, watching the livestream, or simply making sure your diploma arrives without a hitch.
When and where is the Fall or Winter 2025 graduate commencement ceremony?
UGA’s Fall Graduate Commencement Ceremony takes place Friday, December 12 at Stegeman Coliseum. The ceremony begins at 2:30 p.m.
Graduates should plan to arrive at the Stegeman Coliseum Training Facility’s practice gym by 12:45 p.m. Guest doors open at 1:30 p.m.
There’s no ticketing for the graduate ceremony—students and guests can enter freely.
How do I watch from home?
Not attending in person? You can watch the livestream from anywhere via the UGA Commencement homepage, beginning at 1:55PM
No tickets are required for graduate ceremonies—for either students or guests.
Where should I park for the graduate ceremony?
Free parking is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Recommended lots include:
- South Campus Deck (S11)
- Carlton Street Deck (S15)
- Foley Field Lot (S14)
Some nearby lots, such as McPhaul Lot (S10) and Coverdell Lot (S16), are reserved for permit holders only.
You can view UGA’s interactive parking map here.
Graduates should enter Stegeman Coliseum using the doors closest to the Carlton Street Parking Deck.
What accessibility accommodations are available?
Stegeman Coliseum offers first-come, first-serve wheelchair accessible seating along the top row of the lower level.
One guest may sit with individual students needing accommodations; additional family members should use general seating.
Wheelchairs are not provided on site, so guests who need one should bring their own or arrange a short-term rental in advance.
What should I know about the CLEAR BAG policy?
The CLEAR BAG Policy will be in effect for all guests and graduates. Bags must be clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC and no larger than 12 x 6 x 12 inches. Small non-clear clutches under 4.5 x 6.5 inches are allowed. Food and sealed bottled water are permitted if they fit in your approved bag.
Full details are available on the Commencement website.
When and how will I receive my diploma?
You don’t need to pick anything up—UGA will mail your diploma. Here’s the timeline:
- Printed diplomas are sent via USPS approximately 8–10 weeks after graduation.
- U.S. addresses typically receive them within 4–6 weeks
- International shipping may take up to 10 weeks
- Certified Electronic Diplomas will be emailed to your UGA email account
Make sure your mailing address is up to date in Athena to avoid any delays.
Who is speaking at the graduate commencement?
This year’s speaker is Dr. Ron Walcott, the inaugural Vice Provost for Graduate Education and Dean of the Graduate School. A longtime UGA faculty member and professor of plant pathology, Dr. Walcott is widely recognized for his research, his work supporting graduate education, and his mentorship of students across campus.
What should I know about name recognition and stage crossings?
All graduate degree candidates who attend will cross the stage, and doctoral graduates will be hooded by their major professor. Information submitted through Tassel will appear on the video boards for graduates who meet the November 13 deadline and have removed any FERPA restrictions.
Graduates who don’t attend will still be able to create and download a personalized slide for personal use.
What should I expect when I arrive for commencement?
Graduates should leave personal items with family members and choose a meeting spot ahead of time for after the ceremony. As with all academic ceremonies, plan to stay through the full recessional. Stegeman is indoors, but in case of severe weather, updates will be posted on the UGA homepage.
Whether you’re walking across the stage or tuning in from home, you’ve earned this celebration. We’re proud of every Bulldog earning a degree this Fall.
Need more info? Visit commencement.uga.edu for updates and details.