Pre-commencement checklist

You’re almost there-Congratulations!

Commencement Weekend is a special time, and Duke has a lot planned for you and your guests. Below is a checklist to help guide you through the most important tasks before the big weekend.

Plan Your Weekend

Check your school or department’s events to find ceremonies and other celebrations happening throughout the weekend.

Explore the Plan Your Weekend section for suggestions on local activities for making the most of Commencement Weekend with your guests.

RSVP for Commencement & Order Apparel

The apparel order deadline for students is February 13, 2026.

Complete this form to register for the university-wide commencement ceremony and order your academic regalia.

Apparel pickup
Monday, April 27 – Saturday, May 2 9 AM – 5 PM
Sunday, May 3 CLOSED
Monday, May 4 – Saturday, May 9 9 AM – 5 PM

You may arrange for someone else to pick up your apparel, but they must have your payment and know your sizes. Payment for all apparel must be made when it is picked up from the Bryan Center. Credit cards, FLEX cards, cash and personal checks are accepted.

Guest Tickets

In early April, students will receive a link to request tickets for their guests. There is a limit of 20 tickets per graduate. These tickets will be digital and are for general admission seating. They will be delivered electronically the week of Commencement.

Student Registration for Baccalaureate

Graduates will have an opportunity to register for one of the two Baccalaureate services to be held on Friday, May 8. Graduating students will need to register to attend. In early April, graduates will receive an email with the link to register for this event.

Please note, there is very limited seating available in the Duke Chapel for guests and available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Additionally, the services will be simulcast on a large video screen in Page Auditorium, and guests may also view the services live on the Commencement website homepage or on the Duke Chapel YouTube channel.

Guest tickets will not be required for the Duke Chapel and Page Auditorium viewing locations.

Pick Up your Class Gift

The Duke Alumni Association will distribute class gifts during the Forever Duke Kickoff event on Thursday, May 7. 

Know Where To Be on Commencement Day

Detailed instructions on lineup times, ceremony processes, and where to report will be provided via email as Commencement approaches. Be sure to check your email for updates.

Join Duke’s alumni network

After Commencement Weekend, you will officially be a part of Duke’s alumni community. Explore the benefits and opportunities available through the Alumni Association website.