Graduation Information

Class of 2024-Commencement Ceremony

Monday, May 20, 2024 at 7:30 pm   

Northern Illinois University Convocation Center

1525 W. Lincoln Hwy

DeKalb, IL  60115

Graduation Program

Arriving and Parking Map

Entrances Map

Student Seating Map

Class of 2024-Important Dates to Remember

General Information

• There is ample seating and tickets will not be required.

• The Class of 2024 ceremony will be live-streamed on the D303 YouTube channel. 

• Grad Images will be on hand to take pictures of each graduate as they receive their diploma.

• NIU Policies:

  • • Guests are asked to NOT bring in large bags.  If a bag is needed, it needs to be CLEAR and not to exceed 12" x 12" x 6" or a small hand size clutch purse not to exceed 5.5" x 8.5" and no more than 2" thick.  NIU Bag Policy

    • An exception will be made for made for medically necessary items after proper inspection at the door.

    • Unauthorized items must be returned to vehicles.

    • Prohibited Items:

      • Purses, diaper bags, laptop bags, camera bags, backpacks, duffels, and fanny packs (see NIU Bag Policy)

      • Wrapped gifts and gift bags

      • Helium Balloons

      • Laser pointers of any kind

      • Coolers, bottles, cans, containers, or projectiles

      • Weapons, flammables, or other potentially dangerous items

      • Aerosol containers or any pressurized container

      • Horns, noisemakers, or whistles

      • Any illegal substances

      • Posters, banners, or signs on sticks

      • Golf Umbrellas

      • Tripods, monopods, & selfie sticks

      • Outside food & beverages (including Starbucks, Dunkin’, and other coffee brands)

      • Strollers are not permitted in the arena.

    • Guests & Graduates may bring in (1) unopened 20 oz. or smaller bottle of water into the Convocation Center.  

    • Graduates and guests are asked to exit the Convocation Center immediately after the conclusion of the ceremony. 

For Students   

• Caps and Gowns

  • Seniors are required to complete this survey prior to the end of September to provide us with your measurements so we can order your cap and gown.  

  • Pick up dates are May 13 and 14 during lunch periods in the Main Foyer.

  • The caps and gowns are "Keepers" and do not need to be returned after the ceremony.

  • Students must have an ID and all fees and fines must be paid.

• MANDATORY Graduation Group Meeting - Tuesday, May 14, 2024, @ 2:30 p.m.-Room Assignments TBD

  • Students will receive programs, and information specific to their participation in the ceremony at this time.

    1. Senior Checklist

    2. Convocation Center Interior Map-includes student seating information

    3. Convocation Center Parking Map

• MANDATORY Graduation Practice - Friday, May 17, 2024, @ 7:30 a.m. - Main Gym

• Commencement Ceremony - Monday, May 20, 2024, @ 7:30 p.m. - NIU Convocation Center

  • Arrive at the ceremony at 6:30 p.m.  You cannot enter the Convocation Center before this time.  You may enter any door.

  • Do not bring cell phones, cameras, or purses.

  • Please have a plan to reunite with parents/guests outside the Convocation Center or parking lot after the ceremony.

--Updated 4/12/24 --

Graduation Speakers

There will be three student speakers at the Commencement Ceremony.  The class president will give an address and there will be two at-large speakers.  The at-large speeches are open to any member of the class in good standing.  Students wishing to speak at the Commencement Ceremony need to submit their speech no later than April 8 at 7 am.   Click here for detailed information on being a graduation speaker.