Frequently Asked Questions

When does the graduation ceremony begin?
The graduation ceremony begins at 10:00 a.m., but the procession of candidates into the stadium begins at 9:30 a.m. You should plan to arrive in time to see the candidates march into the stadium at 9:30.

How do we obtain graduation invitations?
Students have the opportunity to order personalized announcements during the Senior Salute given by Duke University Stores on February 25-27. They are also able to obtain non-personalized invitations during the week of April 9, also from University Stores. Students are notified directly with details.

When should hotel reservations be made?
Reservations should be made as early as possible since area hotels do fill early. Please refer to the graduation website for direct links to area hotels and restaurants through the Durham Visitors Bureau.

Is there housing available on campus?
Depending on events taking place on campus, there is occasionally limited space. If you are interested in dormitory space, you can call Housing Assignments at 919-684-4304.

What is a baccalaureate service?
The baccalaureate service is similar to our regular Sunday services in Duke Chapel. There are three identical baccalaureate services with Samuel Wells, Dean of the Chapel, giving the sermon and President Richard H. Brodhead, the President's Charge. Assignment is made by the student's surname. Students wear their academic apparel and the procession of candidates begins ten minutes prior to the beginning of each baccalaureate service.

What events will require tickets?
The only event that requires tickets is the Baccalaureate Service. These tickets allow for seating in Page Auditorium and, if additional seating is available after the seating of students, in Duke Chapel. The students are responsible for obtaining those tickets during the week of April 21. Students are initially given 3 tickets for guests followed by a "Clearinghouse" to obtain extra tickets, if any are available.

Where is the best place for parents and guests to view Baccalaureate?
Page Auditorium offers an air-conditioned venue with comfortable seating for parents and guests to view baccalaureate services on a closed circuit large screen television.

Is there any transportation provided?
There is transportation provided from several of the area hotels. Please check the website for the updated listings. Buses and vans will be transporting on campus on Sunday morning from 8:30 until after graduation.

Is reserved parking available?
Unfortunately, we are unable to offer reserved or handicapped parking. However, guests who are unable to walk from designated parking areas may be driven to the entrance of each venue, but cars must be parked elsewhere. Reservations or advance notice are not necessary; simply check with the officer at each event for instructions.

Does the University provide wheelchairs?
We are unable to provide wheelchairs, however, there are local vendors who have rentals available. All University-wide events during the weekend have areas designated for wheelchairs. Golfcarts are available Sunday at the Graduation Exercises at Wallace Wade Stadium for transport to seating. No advance notice or reservations are necessary; simply check with student marshals at each event for instructions.

What happens with inclement weather?
Any departmental event planned outdoors also has a rain location listed in the Calendar of Events. If the weather is severe on Saturday afternoon, the East Campus Reception will be held in the East Campus Union. If the weather is severe or threatening on Sunday morning, the graduation exercises in Wallace Wade Stadium will be cancelled but the diploma distribution ceremonies will be held as scheduled.

When will the weekend be concluded?
The Graduation exercises begin at 10:00 a.m. (procession begins at 9:30 a.m.) on Sunday morning in Wallace Wade Stadium and conclude at 11:30 a.m. Students and their guests then attend departmental or school diploma ceremonies; the majority begin at noon and conclude by 2:00 p.m. Please check the Calendar of Events for the exact time and location of each departmental or school event. If you have any questions about these particular events, please contact the department directly.

Plan to arrive early at all events to allow time for parking and walking to the locations.

Contact phone numbers