Commencement Information
FAQ’s
Where will Commencement be held?
Commencement will be held at VSU Multi-Purpose Center (MPC), 20809 2nd Avenue, Petersburg, VA 23803.
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MPC Clear bag policy
Will there be a commencement rehearsal?
Yes. Graduates must report at 11:00 AM, and rehearsal will begin at 12:00 PM on Friday, May 15th, at MPC for all participants. A senior reception will immediately follow the rehearsal.
How will Name cards, cords, and tickets be distributed?
Graduation candidates must pick up their name cards and cords in person with a valid photo ID on Friday, May 15th, immediately after rehearsal in the MPC until 4:00 PM. For students unable to pick up their items during this time, distribution will resume in the MPC practice gym on the day of Commencement at 12:00 PM for the 1:30 PM ceremony and at 4:00 PM for the 5:30 PM ceremony.Will tickets be required for guests to attend?
Yes. Each graduate will receive eight (8) electronic tickets to their VSU student email. Per MPC policy, children ages 2 and under will not require a ticket. No additional tickets will be provided. Tickets are free, and sales are prohibited.
How will tickets be distributed?
Tickets will be distributed electronically via your VSU student email the day of rehearsal.
How long will the ceremony last?
The actual ceremony will last approximately two hours.
Do I need to participate in commencement to graduate?
No. All students who meet their academic requirements, regardless of whether they will attend the ceremonies, will still receive their diploma in the mail within six to eight weeks after commencement.
If I don’t want to participate in the ceremony, do I need to apply to graduate?
Yes. You must apply to graduate regardless of participation in the ceremony. View graduation guidelines and requirements.
Will the commencement ceremony be recorded and live-streamed?
Yes. The ceremony will be recorded and viewed live on the VSU webpage.
How do I obtain a cap and gown?
Caps and Gowns can be purchased at the bookstore or contact https://colleges.herffjones.com/college/vsu/
Can I decorate my cap?
If you are planning to decorate your cap the design must be approved prior to rehearsal. Forward a picture of the design to Commencement@vsu.edu for approval.
Special Needs Accommodations
Commencement ceremonies at Virginia State University are accessible to all graduates and guests. The MPC does not provide wheelchairs or mobility devices on-site. Guests requiring a wheelchair are encouraged to bring their own equipment. Accessible parking is available in designated areas at MPC.
If graduating students require any assistance beyond what is listed here, please email Commencement@vsu.edu with your contact information and particular need, and we will make every effort to accommodate you.
Hearing Impaired
Sign language interpreters will be stationed on the stage. If you need to use the interpreters, please advise the ushers, and they will seat you in a section with a clear view of them.