The Doctoral Hooding Ceremony is a special academic tradition recognizing the completion of a doctoral degree. During the ceremony, each graduate is individually honored and formally “hooded,” meaning a faculty member places the doctoral hood over the graduate’s shoulders. Unlike the larger university commencement, the hooding ceremony is more personal and specifically celebrates doctoral graduates and the years of study, research, writing, and perseverance required to complete the degree.
Guests should plan to arrive 30–45 minutes before the ceremony to allow time for seating.
Business or celebratory attire is recommended.
Both events will take place on the University of Pennsylvania campus in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Specific ceremony locations and times can be found on the Schedule page.
Yes. Parking garages and street parking are available around the University of Pennsylvania campus. Rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft are also widely available.
Yes. Philadelphia is accessible via SEPTA regional rail, Amtrak, and the subway system, making it easy to reach the University of Pennsylvania campus from other parts of the city.
No. Both the Doctoral Hooding Ceremony and the University Commencement Ceremony are open to the public, and guests do not need tickets to attend. However, seating may fill quickly, which is why we are encouraging you to arrive 30–45 minutes before the ceremony.
Your presence at the ceremonies is truly the greatest gift. Celebrating this milestone with family and friends means the world to me. Many friends and family have asked how they can celebrate my achievement. For those who have asked, monetary gifts can be sent via Venmo, Zelle, or CashApp. The platform includes a registry tab; however, we have not created one. Cards and well wishes are always appreciated, not expected.
Yes, children are allowed for both the Doctoral Hooding and Commencement.
After the Hooding Ceremony: Please meet me outside the Penn Live Arts Theater near the main entrance. After Commencement: Please meet me outside the Palestra to the right.