The gates to Franklin Field will open to guests at 8 a.m. Guests should use the south stands entrances to Franklin Field along South Street. Please plan to arrive early as there will be lines to get in. Tickets are not required for the University Commencement ceremony. The stadium has outdoor bench seating. Guests are not permitted access to the field prior to and during the ceremony. For guests with a wheelchair, limited mobility, or other medical conditions a limited amount of accessible seating is available in designated areas on the field and in the lower stands and requests should be made in advance.
Graduates and guests entering Franklin Field will be subjected to an airport-style security screening, which will slow entry into the stadium.
NO large bags are permitted. Only certain small items, including phones, wallets, and small clutches are allowed. In addition to bags, the following are not permitted: artificial noisemakers (including airhorns or bullhorns), flags, signs, or posters. No golf umbrellas are permitted; however, small collapsible umbrellas are allowed. Please see the full list of prohibited items on the Commencement website.
Anyone who attempts to enter the stadium with prohibited item(s) will be asked to dispose of them prior to entering. Security personnel will deny access to any individual who does not comply.
Alumni flag bearers and graduating students will process into the stadium beginning at 9:05 a.m. The ceremony will start at 10:15 a.m. and end at approximately 12:15 p.m.
Family and friends unable to attend Commencement can experience the ceremony live online beginning at 9 a.m. (EDT). The streaming webcast is available on the 2026 Commencement website. You can also follow the action on Instagram at #PennGrad.
Refreshments can be purchased at the concession stands once inside. No outside food or beverages can be brought into the stadium unless it is for medical reasons.
In addition to the University’s Commencement ceremony, Penn’s 12 Schools each host a ceremony, at which graduating students will be recognized as their names are called, and they walk across a stage. Details for the individual School ceremonies are coordinated separately, and some additional information is available at the School Ceremonies page of the University Commencement website.
Public transportation is advised. Those planning to drive should allow extra time for traffic congestion. Parking will be limited and may fill up early. Normal parking fees apply.
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