FAQ for Family & Friends

UW Bothell welcomes family and friends of graduating students to attend Commencement!

Have questions about Commencement? Find your question below.

Before the Ceremony

Tickets & Seating

Commencement Day

Before the Ceremony

How can I make sure my student is eligible to graduate and is registered for the ceremony?

We are unable to release student information, so please check with your graduate.

Where can my student get announcements, class ring, diploma frame, or other items?

  • All of the above may be ordered from our licensed vendors.
  • Many of our licensed vendors will be at the Graduation Kick Off event, April 7 – 8, 2025, in the Activities & Recreation Center (ARC) from 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

How can my student order their cap and gown?

Master and Bachelor students can order caps and gowns through the commencement registration form from April 28 – May 18. All graduation items, including guest tickets, may be picked up at Grad Fair from May 20 – 22 at the North Creek Events Center.

Are there any other associated fees for Commencement besides cap and gown purchase?

No. However, optional memorabilia such as diploma frames, stoles, and announcements are an extra cost.

Tickets & Seating

How many guests can my student invite?​

  • Students participating in the ceremony may receive up to 8 guest tickets. As a courtesy to others, please do not have your student request more tickets than they can use.
  • Tickets will be ordered through the commencement registration form and picked up at Grad Fair.
  • Only ticketed guests may enter the stadium; please do not invite guests who do not have tickets.
  • Family and friends may also watch the live webcast of Commencement.

Do guests need to reserve seating?

Guests do not need to reserve seating. Seats are on a first-come, first served basis.

Do children need tickets?

Children ages 2 and under do not need a ticket. Children are not permitted in the check in area or on the ceremony floor with graduates.

What about access and seating for the elderly and those needing accommodations, such as wheelchairs or listening assistance?

  • Students should request accommodated tickets for their guests requiring extra time to access their seats, have mobility issues or accommodations or need assistive listening devices.
  • Ushers will help guide guests to accessible seating.
  • Assistive listening devices will be available. Pick-up location is on the concourse near the main doors.

Commencement Day

Can family and friends unable to attend view the ceremony on the web?

Yes, there will be a live webcast of Commencement. To view, visit the UW Bothell Commencement website live stream webpage. Link to livestream will be available on June 15.

Where should I park?

Parking and transportation information is available on the UW Transportation Service page.

Where do I go on Commencement Day?

Guests will enter the arena through the main entrance. Graduating students will check in at Dempsey Field.

When should guests arrive?

Purple Ceremony:

  • 9:30 a.m. – Student Check-in
  • 10:00 a.m. – Doors Open for Guests
  • 11:00 a.m. – Procession begins

Gold Ceremony:

  • 2:30 p.m. – Student Check-in
  • 3:00 p.m. – Doors Open for Guests
  • 4:00 p.m. – Procession begins

Can I bring balloons, pets, flowers, etc.?

Flowers are allowed. Balloons, air horns, noise makers, and animals (other than service animals) are not allowed into the arena. For a full list of prohibited items and bag policies, please visit Alaska Airlines Arena’s website.

More information can also be found in security information.

Will there be food and beverages available?

Yes, a limited number of concessions will be open.

How long is the ceremony?

The ceremony is expected to be about 2 hours long.

How do I find my student after the ceremony?

Please have prearranged plans to meet up with your graduate outside the arena.

COVID protocol

The University of Washington Bothell will follow the health guidance of the State of Washington and King County Health Department for COVID protocols for this year’s commencement ceremonies.

Masks are not required but are strongly recommended.

*If you feel sick, test positive or have been exposed to COVID-19 please do not attend the ceremony.