Big Jay high-fives a graduate, Graduates and guests fill the Memorial Campanile hill on Commencement Day, and Graduates stand and look on while at Commencement.

Commencement at the University of Kansas

Congratulations, 2026 KU graduates! Commencement is your opportunity to bask in the acknowledgement, praise, and Rock Chalks you’ve worked so hard to achieve.

KU holds one university-wide Commencement ceremony each spring and many school-level recognition events that same weekend. Reach out to your department directly for information about individual school and department events — and read on to learn details that will help you and your guests prepare for Commencement day.

Commencement 2026
Sunday, May 17
10:30 a.m.

Graduates

Ensure that you’re eligible, purchase regalia, and know what to expect on Commencement day.
University of Kansas graduates stand with arms around one another.

Guests

Enjoy a successful celebration with a little advanced planning and an understanding of attendee accommodations and expectations.
Crowds of guests observe as University of Kansas graduates walk down the hill during graduation.

Commencement Q&A

Do you have questions about stadium construction, accessibility, or other event details? We’ve got the answers.
The top of a graduate's mortarboard cap is decorated with the words "Rock Chalk" in crimson and blue.
 
Preview ceremony traditions and the schedule of events ahead of Commencement.
About the KU ceremony About the KU ceremony
Image showing the cover of the KU Commencement 2025 ceremony book, next to an open spread of the book with an image from campus and three columns of text resembling graduate names but not meant to be legible at this scale.

Pick up your free Commencement book

When you attend the Commencement ceremony, be sure to pick up a free Commencement book, which contains the names of summer and fall graduates as well as spring degree candidates. Graduates may collect their books at the top of the Hill and near entrances to the David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium. Guests may pick up books near the entrances to stadium while supplies last.
Common Questions
School & Department Recognition Events

Accessibility and accommodation

Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to attend University of Kansas sponsored events. If you require a reasonable accommodation in order to participate in this event, please contact the Office of University Ceremonies and Special Events by May 1, 2026, at commencement@ku.edu.