Frequently Asked Questions
Jump to a topic:
- Accessibility
- Commencement on the National Mall
- School Celebrations
- Registration
- COVID-19
- Food and Beverages
- Honors
- Letters of Invitation
- Restrooms
- Staff and Volunteers
- WiFi Access
Accessibility
What accessibility services are available for guests and graduates?
GW is committed to providing universal access to all of our events. For detailed information, please visit our Accessibility page.
Commencement on the National Mall
What is Commencement on the National Mall?
Commencement on the National Mall brings together students from all of GW's schools for the conferral of their degrees. To learn more, visit the Commencement on the National Mall page.
When and where is Commencement taking place?
We will celebrate the Class of 2025 on Sunday, May 18, 10:30 a.m. on the National Mall. Visit the Commencement on the National Mall page for details about site location and arrival times, available in the spring semester.
I am a summer or fall graduate. When is my graduation ceremony?
Visit the Commencement on the National Mall page and School Celebrations page for information about participation in Commencement Week events for summer and fall graduates.
Who is the Commencement Speaker for 2025?
The university will share the 2025 Commencement Speaker at a later date.
Who is the Commencement Student Speaker?
Graduating students are invited to enter the Student Speaker Competition for a chance to speak at Commencement on the National Mall. Learn more on the Commencement Student Speaker Competition page.
Can I take photos and video at Commencement on the National Mall?
Review our guidelines for photography and videography at Commencement.
Is there an alternate site plan for Commencement on the National Mall in case of inclement weather?
Visit the Commencement on the National Mall page for information about the Commencement alternate site plan.
School Celebrations
What are School Celebrations?
All schools and colleges will host a celebratory experience for their graduating students in May. At GW these are called "school celebrations." Visit the School Celebrations page to learn more.
When and where are School Celebrations?
For dates, times and locations of School Celebrations, please check the Commencement Week Schedule.
Can I take photos and video at my school celebration?
Review our guidelines for photography and videography at school celebrations.
Registration
When does registration open?
Registration for Commencement Week events will open early in the spring semester. More details will be available on the Register for Commencement Week Events page.
Who needs to register?
Eligible students must register themselves and their guests to attend Commencement Week events. For detailed information, please visit the Register for Commencement Week Events page.
COVID-19
What are GW’s COVID-19 protocols during Commencement Week?
Review our COVID-19 protocols during Commencement Week.
Food and Beverages
May I bring food or drinks to school celebrations and Commencement on the National Mall?
Visit the Commencement on the National Mall and School Celebrations pages for information about food and beverages at Commencement Week events.
Honors
How do I know if I’ll receive a cord or stole for my achievements?
Visit the School Celebrations page for information about honors.
Letters of Invitation
How do I get a letter of invitation for my guests to receive a visa for Commencement Week events?
Instructions for requesting a letter of invitation are provided on the Plan Your Visit page.
What if I can’t attend Commencement Week events?
Learn more about livestream and recording options on the Celebrate Anywhere page.
Restrooms
Are restrooms available at school celebrations and Commencement on the National Mall?
Visit the Commencement on the National Mall page and School Celebrations page for information about restroom availability at Commencement Week events.
Staff and Volunteers
Are students hired to work at Commencement Week events?
Students who are not graduating members of the Class of 2025 may apply to work at Commencement Week events through Student Employment beginning early in the spring semester. All applicants must complete required paperwork and receive clearance from Student Employment to work during Commencement Week.
Hired students who are on-campus residents will receive extended housing through May 19.
Do you need staff or faculty volunteers at Commencement Week events?
Staff or faculty who are interested in volunteering should contact the Commencement Office at [email protected]. Volunteers must attend required orientation and training sessions.
WiFi Access
Is there WiFi access at school celebrations and Commencement on the National Mall?
Visit the Commencement on the National Mall page and School Celebrations page for information about WiFi access during Commencement Week.