Frequently Asked Questions

General Questions

What's the difference between the Engineering ceremonies and the University ceremony on Monday?

Students attending the Penn Engineering ceremony for their degree will have their name individually called and they will walk across the stage, receive a “diploma,” and pose for a photo with the Dean. Students attending the University ceremony on Monday will join all graduates from across Penn and will not be individually recognized.

How do I participate in the University's Commencement Ceremony on Monday, May 20, 2024?

Please visit the University’s Commencement website where the most current information will be posted: commencement.upenn.edu. Line-up locations for all graduates wishing to participate may be found in the Commencement Brochure, available for download at the bottom of the main Commencement website.

Do I need a ticket to attend any of the ceremonies?

Penn Engineering does not restrict the number of guests per graduate and tickets are not required for attendance.

All ceremonies will be live streamed for those guests that are not able to join us on campus.

Please visit the University’s Commencement website where the most current information will be posted for attending the University’s ceremony on Monday, May 20, 2024.

Do participating students need to register for Engineering Commencement?

Yes. Registration is required for participation in Commencement.

Master’s and undergraduate-level students must register via Marching Order before the indicated deadline; you will receive an email from Marching Order inviting you to register in early-to-mid April.

Ph.D. level students wishing to be hooded must register via the Ph.D. registration form, which will be sent via email from the Office of Academic Services in early-to-mid March.

 

How do I get my diploma?

Diplomas are mailed from the Office of the Secretary approximately 8-10 weeks following the official degree conferral date (i.e., the date appearing on your diploma). Your diploma will be mailed once your degree has been posted by your school and if you are in good financial standing. You can confirm that your degree has been posted by logging into Path@Penn. If your degree has not been posted, you should contact your school.

Diplomas will only be mailed to the student’s permanent or diploma address on file in Path@Penn.

Further information on diplomas can be found here.

How can my friends and family participate remotely?

Penn Engineering Commencement ceremonies will be live-streamed from the Penn Engineering Commencement website). Be sure to use #PennEngineeringProud in your Facebook, Instagram and Twitter posts!

What happens if it rains?

All ceremonies will be held in their respective locations regardless of weather events.

Is there limited mobility seating for the ceremonies?

PhD Ceremony:

Irvine Auditorium is ADA accessible. More information can be found here 

Master’s and Undergraduate Ceremonies:

Guests with limited mobility may be dropped off in front of Shoemaker Green on 33rd Street between South and Walnut Streets. There will be transportation via golf cart to the Palestra entrance. Please be aware that the Palestra is bench seating. Due to space constraints, guests with disabilities who are seated in the limited-mobility seating area may be accompanied by one escort only.

Please note: Motorized scooters and wheelchairs are permitted in the Palestra. If anyone in your party uses these items, please bring them with you. We do not provide wheelchairs or scooters.

Where is the best place to park?

If you must drive, do remember that there may be traffic congestion and parking may be limited, so arrive early. Parking facilities (fees vary) are located at:

  • Walnut 38, University garage — the northeast corner of 38th and Walnut Streets (enter on 38th Street)
  • Sheraton University City, Hotel garage — 36th and Chestnut Streets
  • Walnut 40, University garage — 40th and Walnut Streets
  • Chestnut 34, University garage (limited parking) — 34th and Chestnut Streets (enter on 34th Street)
  • Ludlow 34, University lot — Ludlow St. (south side) between 33rd and 34th Streets
  • Penn Park, University lot — 31st and lower Walnut Street (accessed from Chestnut Street)

More information can be found here

How do I obtain invitation letters for international visitors?

For more information please visit this website.