Q: I sent the Commencement RSVP, will I receive any confirmation?

A: No. Your name will appear on the RSVP List within 72 hours.

Q: What do I do after I RSVP?

A: After you RSVP, make sure you buy your cap and gown, then arrive on time for the ceremony on graduation day. >>more info

Q: Is there a rehearsal for Commencement?

A: No. Please arrive one hour before Commencement and the volunteers will instruct you.  Refer to the Graduation Day page for more information.

Q: Will I receive my diploma at Commencement?

A: No.  Diplomas will be mailed to all graduates within 6 weeks of graduation.

Q: How long does Commencement last?

A: Approximately one and a half hours.

Q: How many people can I invite to Commencement?

A: You may invite up to four guests.  You will be mailed the number of tickets you indicated on your RSVP form within a week of submitting your RSVP.  You can request up to two extra tickets on the RSVP form (not guaranteed).  Extra tickets will be mailed AFTER the RSVP process is over, and they will be distributed in the order the RSVP was received.

Q: How are students who have earned honors recognized?

A: Undergraduate students who have earned honors will receive a letter by November 8 indicating which honors designation (cum laude, magna cum laude, summa cum laude) they earned.  These students will then pick up their honors cords at the bookstore to wear at the ceremony.  The honor will be announced after the student's name on stage.  Students who feel they have earned honors but did not receive a letter should contact Academic Affairs at 412-578-6182 or commencement@carlow.edu.

Q: May children attend Commencement?

A: Yes. Children may attend Commencement.  In order for the ceremony to be pleasant for everyone, please be prepared to remove fussy children from the auditorium and take them to the cry room on the 1st floor.

Q: Can my family take pictures during the ceremony?

A: Photography is only permitted in areas where it does not disrupt the ceremony. Photography is not permitted in the aisles where the faculty and students process. Tripods are not permitted in the auditorium.

Q: What if I have additional questions?

A: If your questions haven't been answered on this website, please call 412-578-8821 or email commencement@carlow.edu.