Graduation and Commencement

Spring 2025 Commencement Ceremonies

Clear Bag Policy

To ensure the safety of all guests, graduates, faculty, and staff in attendance at the Spring Commencement Ceremonies, a Clear Bag Policy with be enforced. 

The following bag types are allowed:

• Plastic, vinyl, or PVC clear totes that do not exceed 12x6x12 inches and do not have a logo larger than 4.5x3.5 inches;
• One-gallon clear plastic freezer bags (i.e. Ziploc or similar);
• Small clutch bags no larger than 6x9 inches;
• Exceptions will be made for bags containing items required for medical, family, or child care.

All bags are subject to search at the discretion of staff, and prohibited bags will not be held by staff during the event. Unlawful items are subject to confiscation. 

Prohibited Items include, but are not limited to:

• Alcoholic beverages
• Artificial noisemakers
• Backpacks, fanny packs, purses (or any bag that is not clear)
• Cameras (a lens less than 6 inches is permitted in the Coliseum)
• Chairbacks or stadium seats
• Coolers or containers
• Beach balls
• Food and beverages
• Pets (with the exception of service animals used by disabled guests)
• Strollers
• Umbrella
• Video cameras
• Weapons
• Tools, razor blades, scissors, etc.
• Sealed packages of any kind, including gifts
• Laser pointing devices, flashlights, or glowsticks
• Selfie sticks, telescopic devices, tripods, or camera poles
• Hazardous items including, but not limited to, fuels, torches, lighter fluid, chemicals, paint, batteries, or aerosols
   

Prohibited items must be returned to the owner’s car or discarded a minimum 300 feet away from the exterior of the venue.  Any unlawful items are subject to confiscation, and the person in possession of such items is subject to arrest.

RSVP Deadline

• The RSVP deadline for the university commencement ceremonies is May 13, 2025.
• The RSVP deadlines for the colleges' convocation ceremonies and receptions vary.
  • Please visit the College Convocations and Receptions page

Spring 2025 Commencement Program

Candidates listed in this program reflect information received by the Office of the Registrar as of April 15, 2025. Listing in this program is not proof of graduation.

Diplomas

• Diplomas for Fall 2024 graduates were issued by end of day on January 3, 2025, and digital diplomas are available immediately once issued. The physical copy will arrive 10-18 business days after issuance.
• If you selected the pick-up option for your diploma, you will need to bring your Iowa State University ID card, or another form of identification, and come to 214 Enrollment Services Center during our office hours. You will receive an email when the diplomas are available for pickup. 

Graduation Evaluators