Know Before You Go

Know Before You Go

WashU has additional policies will in place for the safety of our community during the recognition and commencement ceremonies. These policies will be updated and communicated from the University and from Arts & Sciences during the fall and spring semester. 

Ticketing Policy

All Arts & Sciences school ceremonies will require tickets for entry. Tickets will be issued by the College Office and Office of Graduate Studies to students via e-mail in May. Students should forward the tickets to their friends and family.

Questions About Tickets?

Bag Policy

Students

Students may not bring bags of any type into any of the ceremonies, including the plastic bag your regalia rental comes in. Please plan ahead and do not a bring a bag. The student regalia contains pockets that will accommodate small items (keys, phone, etc.). 

Guests

WashU prohibits all bags, backpacks and other carriers from being brought into the ceremony with the following exceptions:

  • Clear bags, not to exceed 14"x14"x4
  • Small clutches or purses, not to exceed 4"x6"
  • Medically necessary bags, including diaper bags

All approved bags are subject to inspection upon entry. Guests with bags or items that do not satisfy the bag policy are encouraged to return their bags or items to their vehicle. WashU will not be providing clear bags. 

For all ceremonies, we recommend allowing extra time to account for bag checks and ticketing. 

Prohibited Items and Regalia Checks

The following items are prohibited in all university and school ceremonies and events, and are subject to confiscation:

  • Air horns and other artificial noisemakers
  • Animals, except service animals
  • Banners or signs larger than 2 feet x 3 feet (no poles of any kind will be allowed)
  • Food and drink (except water)
  • Firearms and weapons
  • Laser lights
  • Balloons, glitter and confetti
  • Unmanned aircraft/drones

Additionally, there will be metal detectors present at all the entrances to Francis Olympic Field. All students, ceremony participants, and guests should expect to pass through the metal detectors to participate in or view the ceremony. 

Please note: in order to make sure all attendees are complying with the new prohibited items policy, students and faculty wearing regalia should plan to arrive to all ceremonies with their regalia unzipped. All individuals wearing regalia will be checked for prohibited items prior to entering the ceremony. Regalia is required to participate in all the ceremonies.