Steps to Graduation
Please refer to the following information as you prepare to graduate.
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Academics → Commencement
Candidate Information
Commencement is a celebration of all you have achieved here at MassArt!
MassArt Commencement will take place on Thursday, May 22, 2025 at 1pm at the LeaderBank Pavilion.
There is a lot for you to do leading up to Commencement! Learn about the important steps you need to take before you graduate, details for Commencement day, and Commencement week activities.
Steps to Graduation
Before Commencement, make sure you’ve completed all of the following:
- Clear all holds on your account. Visit MassArt Self Service. Questions about financial holds? Email the Bursar’s Office.
- Return library items. Contact library@massart.edu if you have questions.
- Complete loan exit counseling if you received federal student loans: studentaid.gov/exit-counseling.
- Check your MassArt email regularly for updates and announcements.
- Transcripts with degrees posted will be available 8–10 weeks after Commencement.
Candidates who require ADA accommodations for the ceremony should report their needs to Conference and Event Services at commencement@massart.edu (or by calling (617) 879-7934) no later than April 18, 2025, as certain arrangements have significant lead times. We do our best to meet all requests.
Cap and gown sets will be available for purchase in the MassArt/MCPHS Bookstore. All candidates are encouraged, but not required, to wear cap and gown at our ceremony.
No student wishing to wear a cap and gown at Commencement will be denied one due to inability to pay; please contact commencement@massart.edu for assistance.
Commencement Day Details
Arrival & Line-Up
- All candidates must arrive by 12:00 PM and check in at the Student Line-Up Tent (look for signage). Please remain in this area until the ceremony begins.
- Use the student entrance to access the tent.
- Don’t bring bags or purses—these can’t be carried during the procession.
Name Pronunciation
Make sure your name is pronounced correctly when you walk across the stage!
- Visit Student Development (Kennedy, 2nd floor)
- Or call (617) 879-7700 and leave a voicemail with your name pronunciation.
- You’ll also be able to write your name phonetically on your name card on Commencement Day
Conferring of Degrees
When it is your turn, candidates will be prompted to rise one row at a time and exit your row to the left, as directed by staff.
Be sure to have your name card with you. When you reach the stairs to the stage, hand your name card to the staff member collecting them. Once your name is announced, you will cross the stage and shake hands with the President and members of the Platform Party.
After exiting the stage, you will receive your diploma cover and a proxy diploma. Official diplomas will be mailed in late summer.
After the Ceremony
Following the ceremony, you are free to continue celebrating with family and friends. Our ceremony lasts approximately 2 hours, and will end around 3:00pm.
We encourage you not to make any plans until after 4:00pm to allow time for photos and for all guests to exit the venue.
Congratulations on your achievement!
Graduation Week Activities
GRADUATING SENIOR EXHIBITION
May 8-16, 2025 | Tower Galleries & South Crackatorium
Reception: May 15, 2025, 6-7pm, Design and Media Center Atrium
GRADuates BRUNCH
May 21, 2025, 10am
Enjoy brunch, mimosas, and good vibes with friends! Sign up for the MassArt Alumni Community and receive your alumni swag.
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