WGU Commencement 2025: Complete Graduation Guide for Students

Graduation is a big deal — it’s not just a ceremony, it’s a celebration of your hard work, late-night study sessions, and the journey you’ve taken at WGU. Whether you’re planning to walk the stage, celebrate virtually, or just curious how it all works, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about WGU commencement.

From GradPass to caps and cords, from locations to livestream links, this article covers all your WGU commencement questions in one place — simple, clear, and straight to the point.

📍 What Is WGU Commencement?

WGU Commencement is the official graduation ceremony for students finishing their degree programs. It’s where students celebrate achievements with family, friends, and the WGU community.

There are multiple ceremonies each year, both in-person and virtual, held in different cities across the U.S. like Dallas, Las Vegas, Salt Lake City, Orlando, and more.

WGU commencement includes:

• Keynote speakers
• Cap and gown ceremonies
• Student spotlight stories
• Cords and regalia presentation
• Photo sessions
• Optional virtual attendance

📋 How to Register for Commencement

You’ll need to complete the following steps to register:

1. Submit Your Graduation Application
2. Wait for Confirmation Email
3. Log in to WGU Commencement Portal
4. RSVP for Commencement
5. Order Cap, Gown, and Regalia

Deadline Alert: You must RSVP and complete all steps before the deadline — typically 4–6 weeks before the event.

🗓️ Upcoming WGU Commencement Dates & Locations (2025–2026)

Here are some key upcoming ceremonies based on WGU’s official schedule:

Tip: Always check the WGU Commencement Page www.wgu.edu/alumni/commencement.html for updated dates, deadlines, and schedules.

Also Read: WGU Scholarships Guide

🎟️ WGU Commencement Tickets

• Tickets for WGU commencement are free for students.
• Most events allow 4–6 guests per student.
• You may need to print or digitally show your guest passes.

Some high-demand locations like Dallas or Vegas may have guest capacity limits, so register early.

🎓 Cap, Gown, and Regalia — What You’ll Need

✅ Do You Get a Cap and Gown from WGU?

No — you need to purchase your own from the official regalia vendor provided after registration.

👘 What’s Included in Regalia?

• Cap & Gown
• Tassel
• Degree-specific hood (for Master’s)
• Optional honor cords, sashes, stoles

Military cords, honor cords, and special stoles (for BSN, MBA etc.) may be included or ordered separately.

🪢 Cords & Honors

🧵 What Are Philanthropy Cords?

If you donate to the WGU Night Owl Scholarship fund, you may receive a Philanthropy Cord as recognition.

🥇 Other Cords:

• Military Cord
• Honor Cord (GPA-based)
• College-specific stoles

To qualify:

• Maintain GPA for honors
• Submit military documentation
• Register and donate (for philanthropy cords)

🪪 What Is the GradPass?

GradPass is your digital ticket to the event. It’s also used to:

• Check in at the venue
• Confirm your stage-walk info
• Access event photos later

You’ll receive your GradPass via email or the WGU commencement portal.

📷 WGU Commencement Photos & Livestream

WGU offers professional photo services on-site and uploads images after the ceremony.

✅ Can’t attend in person?

No worries! WGU livestreams every commencement event:

• Watch live on YouTube or WGU Virtual
• Share the link with family & friends

📦 How to Order Graduation Announcements, Keepsakes & More

Want to go big on celebration? WGU partners with vendors where you can order:

• Class rings
• Announcement cards
• Photo frames
• Diploma covers
• WGU-branded gifts

🏛️ Commencement Locations Breakdown (Top Cities)

Each city has its own check-in times, schedules, and hotel info, so always refer to the guidebook PDF provided by WGU.

Also Read: WGU Enrollment Portal

📥 RSVP & Confirmation Process

After submitting your graduation application:

1. Wait for approval email
2. RSVP via the commencement portal
3. Confirm guests, regalia orders, and GradPass
4. Bookmark your ceremony schedule

🧠 Bonus: Tips for a Smooth Graduation Day

• ✅ Arrive 1 hour early
• ✅ Bring your GradPass
• ✅ Wear comfortable shoes
• ✅ Keep your phone charged for photos
• ✅ Relax and enjoy — this is your day!

💬 What Real Students Say (Reddit + Reviews)

“Walking the stage was surreal — the energy was amazing!”
“WGU made it feel special even though it was virtual.”
“Getting my Philanthropy Cord meant a lot. I’ll never forget it.”
“Worth every late night and coffee-fueled essay.”

🏆 Celebrate Big, Whether Virtual or In-Person

Your WGU commencement is more than just an event — it’s the closing chapter of one journey and the first page of another. No matter where you are — at a venue in Dallas or watching online from home — you’ve earned this.

Don’t forget to:

• Share on social media
• Tag @WGUalumni
• Celebrate with family and friends