VCU Interdisciplinary Studies and InnovationSpring 2026 Graduation FAQ
Congratulations to the class of 2026! The Interdisciplinary Studies and Innovation commencement ceremony will be held on Friday, May 8, from 7:00–8:30 p.m. at the Singleton Center for the Performing Arts (922 Park Ave., Richmond, VA).
Subhead: Commencement Q&A
Q: How do I participate in the commencement ceremony?
A: To participate in the ceremony, you must fill out an application to graduate in eServices. Please note that this graduation ceremony is separate from the university-wide commencement. For more information please visit: https://rar.vcu.edu/graduation/graduation-application/
Q: Is there nearby parking for this event?
A: Yes, guests will be able to pay to park at the West Broad Parking Deck located at 1111 W. Broad St, Richmond, VA. The deck is about an 8-minute walk from the graduation venue. Though there is parking available on the street, space may be limited. Please plan time to find parking, drop off guests, etc., so that you are seated by 6:50 PM.
Q: Does this event require tickets?
A: Yes! This event requires tickets. Students need to fill out the Spring 2026 Interdisciplinary Studies and Innovation Graduation RSVP/Ticket Request Form sent to their student emails. Students are limited to 6 tickets (graduates do not need tickets for themselves). Those without tickets will not be granted entry.
Q: What time should graduates arrive? When will the doors open for audience guests?
A: Doors to the Singleton Center will open at 6 p.m. and graduates must arrive no later than 6:15 to line up for the procession
Q: Who do I contact for more information or if a guest or I requires accessibility accommodations?
A: For event questions and accessibility accommodations, contact the Graduation Director, Maunchi Khan, at [email protected]. Staff will assist with accommodations on the day of the ceremony.
Q: Will this event be live-streamed?
A: Yes. A livestream link will be emailed to students and posted on the IDS website the week before graduation.
Q: Where do I get my cap and gown for the ceremony?
A: Information regarding graduation regalia and more can be found on the VCU commencement website: https://commencement.vcu.edu/graduation-info/.
Q: Will I be allowed into the venue if I arrive late?
A: Out of respect to graduates and their guests, once the ceremony has begun, the doors to the main auditorium will be closed, and entry will not be allowed. Late arrivals will be directed to the balcony level. We ask that all guests be seated 10 minutes prior to the ceremony’s posted start time, 6:50 p.m.
Q: Am I required to attend both the university-wide ceremony and the Interdisciplinary Studies and Innovation Commencement Ceremony?
A: Graduates may choose to attend both ceremonies, or they may choose to attend either the university-wide ceremony OR the Interdisciplinary Studies and Innovation ceremony only. This is entirely up to the graduate.
Q: What is the difference between the Interdisciplinary Studies and Innovation ceremony and the University-wide ceremony?
A: At the university-wide ceremony, graduates are recognized from their seats as the Master of Ceremonies announces each school.* At the Interdisciplinary Studies and Innovation ceremony, undergraduate, graduate and certificate recipients from these programs are individually recognized and walk across the stage. Names and degrees are announced, and professional photos are taken with the dean and keynote speaker. Graduates will receive an email from Grad Images to view and order photos.
*Note: The Records and Registration office includes only students eligible to graduate in the current semester. Graduates are not individually recognized at the university-wide ceremony.
Q: Will I receive my diploma or certificate on graduation day?
A: No. Diplomas are mailed to the address listed on your graduation application. Visit the VCU commencement website for more information about diplomas and commencement items.
Q: Which ceremony offers a Commencement Program Handbook?
A: The Commencement Program Handbook is available only at the university-wide ceremony.
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