On the day of your commencement ceremony, please follow the important instructions below. This will help you and all other graduates have a positive, safe, and stress-free commencement experience.
Arrive at Least One Hour before Your Ceremony Begins
- Allow plenty of extra time for parking.
- Arrive dressed in your regalia.
- Bring very little with you. Leave most items in the car or with family members. Bartow Arena enforces a clear bag policy.
- If you arrive late, you may not be allowed to enter the arena and participate.
Check In and Receive Your Name Card When You Arrive
- Enter Bartow Arena at the 13th Street South lower entrance.
- Check in to receive your individual name card. You must have this name card – only available at check-in – to cross the stage.
- You will also receive honors cords at the check-in table
Sit in Your School’s Section with Your Fellow Classmates
- After check-in, proceed to the arena floor as directed.
- Student Ambassadors and Faculty Marshals will direct you to your seat.
- Students are seated in the order they arrive.
Enjoy the Celebratory Atmosphere and Take Pictures before the Ceremony Begins
- Once your seat has been assigned, you can get up, take pictures with family, friends, and maybe even Blaze, and enjoy your special day.
- All graduates will be directed to return to their assigned seats 10 minutes before the ceremony starts.
Cross the Stage and Be Recognized
- During the ceremony, Faculty Marshals will line you up to cross the stage.
- Bring your name card but leave all other belongings in your seat.
- Make sure your official robe is zipped up all the way – no unauthorized clothing, stoles, robes, or flags are permitted.
- When your name is called, cross the stage and shake hands with your Academic Dean and President Watts.
- No running, stomping, dancing or doing anything that distracts from the importance of the ceremony as outlined in the Student Conduct Code.
- Be respectful and smile. This is your big moment.
Exit the Stage, Pose for Your Official Picture, and Respectfully Return to Your Original Seat
- Faculty marshals will guide you as you exit the stage.
- Smile for your official graduation portrait.
- Return to your seat as directed.
Stay Until the End of the Ceremony
- As this is a formal event, like a wedding, you are asked to be respectful of your fellow classmates by remaining in your seat until the conclusion of the ceremony.
- The ceremony will last less than 90 minutes.
- Students who attempt to leave early will be stopped by Faculty Marshals and asked to return to their seats.
Look Forward to Receiving Your Photos and Diploma in the Coming Weeks
- A proof of your photos will be emailed to you a few weeks after commencement from GradImages.
- Your diploma will be mailed to you 6-8 weeks after final grades are posted.
Thank you for your careful attention to these important instructions. Following them ensures that every graduate can have a positive, safe, and stress-free commencement experience.
Commencement ceremonies at universities connect today’s graduates to centuries of academic tradition—expressing achievement, institutional identity, and scholarly lineage. One of the most recognizable symbols of this tradition is academic regalia: the cap, gown, hood, and ceremonial accessories.
The academic procession begins with the ceremonial mace, combining the royal scepter and medieval mace to symbolize institutional authority. It precedes the president’s party and marks the formal opening of the event. The ceremonial mace is often carried by the university marshal, faculty marshal, or a designated professor. When not in use, the mace is displayed in the UAB Office of the Provost.
The procession typically features faculty in order of academic rank, deans, trustees, and university leadership behind the mace-bearer.
Academic Regalia: What It Represents
Gowns and hoods began as practical garments worn by monks and scholars to keep warm in unheated buildings. Universities, emerging from cathedral schools, adopted similar attire to reflect a serious, scholarly identity.
In 1895, the Intercollegiate Code of Academic Costume standardized regalia in the U.S., assigning gown styles, hood lengths, and velvet colors to different degrees and disciplines. This code is still followed (with some institutional customization).
At the UAB commencement, "regalia" refers to the traditional academic attire consisting of caps, gowns, and hoods (if applicable) worn by graduates and faculty during the ceremony. These garments symbolize academic achievement and uphold the traditions of higher education, while also representing UAB's unique identity. The regalia, particularly the GreenWeaver gowns, are also a commitment to sustainability, made from recycled plastic bottles.
Caps, Gowns & Hoods
The gown signals academic level—bachelor's, master's, or doctoral—according to the Intercollegiate Code of 1895 and later updates. The Bachelor’s gown is generally plain with pointed sleeves. A simple, unornamented design reflecting the first academic degree. The Master’s gown has longer, closed sleeves with slits; more fabric symbolizes deeper study and experience. The Doctoral gown is the most elaborate with velvet panels, sleeve bars, sometimes in school colors—symbolizing the highest scholarly rank.
Mortarboard caps are standard for undergraduate and master’s degrees, while soft velvet tams and gold tassels are reserved for doctoral candidates. Some students may choose to personalize their mortartboard for the commencement ceremony.
The hood represents both the university (through its lining colors) and the academic field (via velvet trim color). The trim follows a standardized color chart—for example, golden yellow for sciences, light blue for education, green for medicine, etc.
Stoles
Stoles are a meaningful part of commencement attire for many students. Often worn draped over the shoulders, stoles can represent a variety of affiliations, accomplishments, and identities—such as cultural heritage, student organizations, academic honors, or community service. At UAB, students are welcome to wear stoles that reflect their personal journeys and the communities that supported them. The university does not discourage the wearing of stoles, and encourages graduates to celebrate their achievements and identities with pride.
Ceremonial Elements & Institutional Symbols
Ceremonial Mace
The university mace is typically made from meaningful metals and materials—often including local symbolism. At UAB, for instance, it includes brass, bronze, and stainless steel to reflect the region’s industrial heritage, and enamel medallions illustrating the lamp of knowledge, institutional seal, and city’s steel tradition.
Its placement at the head of the procession underscores its role as the ceremonial embodiment of the president’s authority to confer degrees.
Academic Gonfalons
Each academic unit (college or school) is represented by a gonfalon—a banner bearing the institution’s seal, school name, and bordered in the unit’s academic color. This visual tradition unites the different schools under the broader university while highlighting their individual identities.
President’s Medal
The President’s Medal, awarded at commencement, recognizes individuals who have attained scholarly distinction and/or rendered distinguished service to UAB; it is one of the highest honors bestowed by UAB. It features an engraved medallion or plaque mounted in a displayable stand that is bestowed at the formal ceremony.
Academic Colors & Dress Code
Universities often align with the Intercollegiate Academic Costume Code (adopted in 1895), which defines gown styles, hood shapes, and trim colors by academic discipline. The academic colors are used for masters and doctoral hoods, tassels, gonfalons, and more throughout the ceremony.
- Arts: White
- Nursing: Apricot
- Business: Drab
- Optometry: Seafoam green
- Dentistry: Lilac
- Philosophy: Dark Blue
- Education: Light Blue
- Public Health: Salmon Pink
- Engineering: Orange
- Science: Gold-yellow
- Fine Arts: Brown
- Social Science: Citron
- Medicine: Green
Accessibility Needs Access
UAB provides the following accommodations for graduates and guests with special needs.
-
Accessible Parking
Accessible “handicap” parking is available in the lot on the south side of Bartow Arena in UAB LOT 24 (13th Street South between University Blvd and 6th Ave). This lot is available to persons with a valid state issued handicap permits or tags. To access this lot, please show proper handicap credentials to the attendant at the 13th Street South barricade. Please plan to arrive early as reserved seating is not guaranteed.
-
Accessible Entrance into Bartow Arena
Guests who need easy access to elevators are advised to enter through the 13th Street lower level entrance. Security will be at the entrance to allow only those patrons needing access to an elevator (plus one guest) to enter and lead them to the elevator.
-
Accessible (Wheelchair) Seating
- Guests who have mobility impairments are advised to arrive when the arena opens, when the availability of seating is greatest.
- A designated area with limited seating for guests who utilize a wheelchair is available on a first come, first served basis. Guests who use a wheelchair may be accompanied by one companion in the designated wheelchair seating area. Once accessible seating is full, all other guests with mobility impairments (plus 1 guest), will be directed to the elevator and brought down to the main floor area seating.
- There is one entrance (the main entrance on the south side of the building) to Bartow Arena on the concourse level, that guests do not have to walk up steps in order to access the building. All individuals needing an accessible entrance are advised to enter at either the main entrance (7th Avenue S) or the 13th Street, lower level entrance.
- UAB does not have wheelchairs available in Bartow Arena; guests requiring a wheelchair must supply their own.
-
Auditory Assistance
- An American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter will be present on stage for guests whose preferred mode of communication is American Sign Language. Guests needing access to view the interpreter are advised to sit in Sections 114 or 115.
- Real-time captioning services are also available for guests who are deaf or hard of hearing. A captioner will be transcribing the ceremony and guests can view the captions on their smart device. You may request a WiFi password by contacting Jessica Eddings at
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. . - Guests viewing captioning through the Wi-Fi network should sit in Section 107 for stronger connectivity to the network. If you require captioning services it is recommended that you arrive 1 hour prior to the ceremony, as seating is first come first served.
-
Elevators
Elevator is located in the northwest corner of the facility.
-
Restrooms
An accessible ADA restroom is located on the lower level concourse.
-
Service Animals
Bartow Arena is a place of public accommodation. Per the Americans with Disabilities Act, service animals that are specifically trained to aid a person who is disabled may be present at commencement ceremonies.
-
Availability of Information in Accessible Formats
This information will be made available in accessible formats upon request. Please contact Jessica Eddings in the Office of the Provost at
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 205-975-3335.
Regalia
Regalia – which includes caps and gowns – makes commencement ceremonies a visually stimulating experience and highlights the importance of the day for graduates and UAB. Learn more about what each piece of regalia means HERE.
-
Bachelor's Regalia
- Ordering opens October 1, 2026
- Order deadline is November 6, 2026
-
Master's Regalia
- Ordering opens October 1, 2026
- Order deadline is November 6, 2026
-
DNP Regalia ONLY
The last day to order is June 29, 2026.
-
Doctoral Regalia (Excluding O.D., M.D., and D.M.D.)
- Ordering opens October 1, 2026
- Doctoral purchase deadline is October 4, 2026
- Doctoral rentals deadline is October 20, 2026
-
Faculty Regalia
Faculty members that have been selected as faculty marshals, are hooding doctoral students, or wish to attend the ceremony, please fill out this form Opens link in a new window. to register your participation and to request regalia before November 6. There is a limited number of regalia available to faculty at no cost on a first come, first served basis.
Dress Code
Commencement recognizes the academic achievements of UAB graduates and is considered a formal academic ceremony that should be viewed as such in dress and demeanor. The recommended dress under the robes is comfortable business attire.
All graduates must wear the official UAB undergraduate and graduate regalia. During the ceremony and while crossing the stage, all parts of the regalia should be in place, and the robe should be zipped closed.
Merchandise
-
Legacy Stole
Legacy families bridge UAB’s past with its present, creating a proud Blazer tradition across generations. As you prepare for Commencement, honor those who helped pave your path with the Legacy Stole, designed for students with a parent or grandparent who graduated from UAB. This distinctive keepsake allows legacy students to stand out during the ceremony while celebrating their family connection to the University. Stoles are available for $35 (pickup) or $40 (shipping); delivery close to graduation is not guaranteed before the ceremony.
Visit the National Alumni Society site Opens an external link. for information on how to order your legacy stole.
-
Graduation Medallion
Celebrate your achievement while supporting future Blazers with the Graduation Medallion. By making a gift of $26 or more in honor of your graduation year, you will receive a commemorative medallion to wear at Commencement and treasure for years to come. Your contribution directly supports Student Scholarships or Student Affairs Emergency Grants, making an immediate impact on campus. This program is in partnership between the UAB National Alumni Society and the Office of Student Affairs.
Visit the National Alumni Society page to make your gift.
-
Class Ring
The UAB Class Ring is a timeless symbol of your connection to the Blazer community. Available exclusively to students or alumni, the ring reflects your shared experience while linking you to generations of graduates. Customizable with a variety of metals, stones, and engraving, it serves as a lasting reminder of your achievement and pride in UAB. Each ring includes interest-free payment options, a lifetime warranty, and a Ring Loss Protection Plan, ensuring your keepsake endures for years to come.
Visit Balfour.com for information on how to order your class ring.
-
Announcements
Announcements can be purchased online through CB Graduation Products. Generally, students receive their announcements within 2-3 weeks; rush service is available for an additional fee.
-
Diploma Frames
UAB diploma frames are available at the UAB Bookstore Opens link in new window . Doctor of Nursing Practice, Doctor of Optometry, Doctor of Medicine, and Doctor of Dental Medicine graduates should contact
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for details about ordering diploma frames, as the size of these diplomas varies from other UAB diplomas. -
UAB-Branded Edible Goods
There is a process in place for graduates and their friends and families to obtain a branding permission letter to share with bakeries to use UAB trademarks on cakes and edible goods.
Latin Honors
Undergraduate students who have achieved meritorious scholastic standing are eligible to wear a gold honors cord. Honors designations are based on grades reported at the end of the previous term and may not reflect all earned honors. Honor cords are given to undergraduate students as they check in at the commencement ceremony.
- Summa Cum Laude: 3.9 - 4.00 overall grade point average
- Magna Cum Laude: 3.7 - 3.89 overall grade point average
- Cum Laude: 3.5 - 3.69 overall grade point average
CEREMONY DATES & TIMES
- Friday, December 11 at 9:30 a.m., Bartow Arena
Master’s and bachelor’s students: School of Nursing and School of Health Professions - Friday, December 11 at 2:00 p.m., Bartow Arena
Master’s and bachelor’s students: School of Education and Human Sciences, School of Engineering, The Graduate School, Joint Health, School of Health Professions - Saturday, December 12 at 9:30 a.m., Bartow Arena
Master’s and bachelor’s students: College of Arts and Sciences, Collat School of Business
The deadline to register to walk is November 12, 2026.
Register to Walk Opens an external link.Apply to Graduate and Walk
Please Note: UAB holds commencement exercises at the conclusion of the spring and fall semesters. Students completing their studies at the end of the summer and fall semesters may participate in the fall graduation ceremony. Students must apply to graduate AND register to walk by November 12, 2026, to participate in fall 2026 commencement.
1. Apply to Graduate
You should file the Application for Degree at least six months before completing your degree. Please refer to the Academic Calendar for the Application for Degree deadline for each semester. Students completing their degrees in the fall 2026 semester who wish to participate in the fall 2026 commencement ceremonies must file the Application for Degree in advance of the November 12 registration to walk deadline.
-
Undergraduates
Please read the information below closely.
- Confirm eligibility with your academic advisor and review your DegreeWorks audit to verify all requirements are on track.
- Apply in BlazerNET: Student → Degree Audit and Graduation → Apply to Graduate. Select your graduation term and follow the prompts.
- Submit by the deadline listed in the Academic Calendar and pay the graduation application fee that will be posted to your student account.
- Monitor your UAB email for updates from records/degree audit staff and resolve any outstanding requirements or holds.
- Diploma delivery: Diplomas are typically mailed 6–8 weeks after your degree is officially conferred, assuming your account is clear. It is your responsibility to notify the Registrar’s Office if your local mailing address changes after you have submitted your application for a degree.
Complete the Undergraduate Application for Degree Opens an external link.
-
Graduates
Please read the information below closely.
- Track progress using the Graduation Planning System (GPS) in BlazerNET to confirm coursework, GPA, and any thesis/dissertation milestones. Be sure to confirm your eligibility to graduate with your academic advisor.
- Apply in BlazerNET: Links/Forms → Apply for Graduate Degree/Certificate. Submit by your program’s posted deadline.
- Pay the application fee (assessed once per degree) and complete any final program documentation (e.g., defense, thesis, dissertation, forms).
- Final audit: After grades post, the Graduate School completes the official degree audit and confers eligible degrees.
- Diploma delivery: Diplomas are typically mailed 6–8 weeks after your degree is officially conferred, assuming your account is clear. It is your responsibility to notify the Registrar’s Office if your local mailing address changes after you have submitted your application for a degree.
2. Register to Attend Commencement and Walk in Graduation
You must register to walk if you wish to attend and participate in a commencement ceremony. Applying for your degree and registering to walk in the ceremony are separate processes.
The deadline to register to attend commencement and walk in the fall 2026 ceremony is November 12, 2026.
IMPORTANT: You must use the “Register to Walk” button to RSVP to attend the commencement ceremony or you may not be allowed to walk in graduation.

O.D., M.D. and D.M.D. Graduates
-
School of Dentistry
Graduates of the School of Dentistry do not submit formal degree applications. The School of Dentistry automatically orders diplomas for all students who successfully complete the program.
For additional questions, contact the School of Dentistry Registrar Office:
- E-mail:
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. - Phone: (205) 934-7800
- In-Person: School of Dentistry, room 125 (Office of Student, Alumni, and External Affairs) from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Central, Monday through Friday.
- E-mail:
-
School of Medicine
Graduates of the School of Medicine do not submit formal degree applications. Students, however, should complete a Diploma Order Form in order to receive their diplomas; this form, as well as other graduation documents, will be discussed at the Senior Class Meeting (typically held in February each year) and made available via email from
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. after the meeting.For additional questions about degree requirements, contact the Records Office in the School of Medicine:
- E-mail:
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. - Phone: (205) 934-4964
- In-Person: Volker Hall, room 107 from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Central, Monday through Friday.
- E-mail:
-
School of Optometry
Graduates of the School of Optometry do not submit formal degree applications. The School of Optometry automatically orders diplomas for all students who successfully complete the program.
For additional questions, contact the Office of Student Affairs in the School of Optometry:
- E-mail:
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. - Phone: (205) 975-0739
- In-Person: Henry Peters Building, room 124 (Office of Student Affairs) from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Central, Monday through Friday.
- E-mail:
