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

View Campus Maps and Directions   

Will there be a commencement rehearsal? 

Yes. Commencement rehearsal will begin at 9:00AM, Friday, May 10th at MPC for all participants. Senior reception immediately following rehearsal.

How will Name cards, cords, and tickets be distributed? 

Name cards and cords must be picked up, in person, by the graduation candidate with a photo ID. on Friday, May 10th immediately following rehearsal in the MPC practice gymnasium until 3:00PM. For students unable to pick up during the above time, distribution will resume the morning of Commencement at 7:00AM for the 9:00AM ceremony and 12:30PM for the 2:00PM ceremony.

Will tickets be required for guests to attend? 

Yes. Each graduate will be provided with eight (8) electronic tickets. Children ages 2 and under will not require a ticket per MPC policy. 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.

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.

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 ceremony participation. View graduation guidelines and requirements. 

Will the commencement ceremony be recorded and live-streamed? 

Yes.  The ceremony will be recorded and can be viewed live on the VSU webpage.  More information will be forthcoming.

How do I obtain a cap and gown?

Cap and Gowns can be purchased at the bookstore, the deadline for ordering online has passed.

Special Needs Accommodations 

Commencement ceremonies at Virginia State University are accessible to all graduates and guests.  Accessible parking is available in designated areas at MPC.

If graduating students require any assistance beyond what is listed here, please emai Commencement@vsu.edu and provide 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. Please advise the ushers if you need to make use of the interpreters and they will seat you in a section with a clear view of the interpreters.