2026 COMMENCEMENT
Ceremonies and Tickets
What is Commencement? Commencement offers a shared traditional graduation experience for all Case Western Reserve University graduates and their guests. Most ceremonies last 90 minutes and include remarks from university leadership and a prominent keynote speaker, after which, graduates’ names are read as they walk across the stage to receive their diplomas. Each school also hosts a special event following its ceremony to celebrate this milestone achievement.
All guests of CWRU graduates should arrive at the designated diploma ceremony 30 minutes to one hour before the ceremony start time. Find your ceremony, time and location.
Tickets are required for each diploma ceremony. Graduates should transfer tickets to their guests’ mobile devices or print a copy ahead of guest arrival. Please make sure your tickets are available and ready to scan at the entry check point to ensure a smooth, positive experience for all. No screenshots or an alternative form of the ticket will be allowed for admission. Guests will not be able to enter the commencement venue without a ticket, unless you are attending the School of Medicine Diploma Ceremony.
If you are unable to make your graduate’s commencement ceremony, a livestream option will be available.
Where to Go
Parking
Guests are encouraged to park in the lot closest to the diploma ceremony venue they will attend. View a map of all CWRU parking lots.
On Wednesday, May 13, Lot 53 will be free starting from 2 p.m. for everyone attending Convocation.
Parking in select Case Western Reserve University lots will be free May 15–17. Guests are encouraged to use Lots 14, 17, 29, 46 and 53, though other lots are open as well.
Lots S10, 13, 27, 47, 52 and 63 will not be available to the public; Lot 1 is only available if overflow parking is required. Individuals with disabilities may be dropped off for commencement events at Veale Center at Lot 53 and the Veale Center roundabout.
Review parking details for each day of commencement weekend (May 15–17, 2026).
Shuttles
Case Western Reserve University will provide special shuttle services during commencement weekend from May 15 through May 17. The regular university campus shuttle route also will run during commencement weekend. See the routine shuttle times or access the Commencement Shuttle Map.
Seating
Seating at all ceremonies is general admission and first-come, first-serve. Seating for individuals with disabilities is available at all events. Review accessibility and special accommodation information.
What to Wear
Guests may wear whatever makes them comfortable. Some walking will be required, so we recommend comfortable footwear. Please plan for the weather—rain or shine—but know that umbrellas are not permitted inside any commencement ceremony venue.
Food and Beverages
No water bottles are allowed. Water bottles and snacks will be sold at concession areas located at Veale Convocation, Recreation and Athletic Center.
Safety and Security
Upon arrival, all individuals will undergo a security check that includes a metal detector, bag screening and visual inspection of clothing capable of concealing prohibited items. To reduce touch points with staff and lengthy inspections, guests are encouraged to not bring bags to the venue.
All bags must be clear plastic, vinyl or PVC, not exceeding 12"x12"x 6." Exceptions include small clutch purses or wallets/wristlets no larger than 4.5”x 6.5”, and necessary medical or childcare items, which will be inspected at specialized entrances.
In addition, the following items are prohibited:
- Camera bags
- Firearms or weapons of any kind (including pocket knives, blades, etc.)
- Laser pointers and noisemakers (cowbells, air horns, whistles or other items)
- Alcoholic or outside beverage
- Water bottles
- Signs, banners, flags, placards and pamphlets intended for distribution
- Any items containing language or imagery that is threatening, intimidating or offensive
- Aerosol cans or liquids
- Confetti, glitter or stickers
- Balloons (those arriving with balloons must return them to their cars)
- Sticks or poles (including selfie sticks)
- Mace or pepper spray
- Umbrellas (must be left at the door)
- Eyeglass cases with metal hinges
Prepare to take out electronic devices before going through security check points.
Rave Alerts
Rave is a text and voice messaging alert system that is used in the case of imminent danger or a serious threat to the campus community, including severe weather. In case of a major campus emergency, Case Western Reserve University will utilize the Rave text and voice messaging alert system, among other methods of communicating with guests, faculty, staff and students.
Text "CWRUGrad2026" to 67283 to receive alerts. Text "STOP" to 67283 to opt out. For more information, review our Rave Alerts webpage.
Smoking
Case Western Reserve is a tobacco-free campus. Guests are not permitted to smoke (including electronic cigarettes or vaping devices) or use tobacco products anywhere on CWRU property.
Gifts and Memorabilia
There will be gift and memorabilia vendors at Veale Convocation, Recreation and Athletic Center and Maltz Performing Arts Center. You may purchase flowers, stuffed animals, and keepsakes for your graduate.
Thank you in advance for adhering to Case Western Reserve University’s commencement guidelines. We look forward to hosting our graduates and their friends and family!
CONGRATULATIONS to Case Western Reserve University’s 2026 Bicentennial graduates!
