The University of Delaware has announced that tickets now will be required to attend UD’s Commencement ceremony, scheduled at 9 a.m., Saturday, June 1, 2019, in Delaware Stadium.

This year’s change to a ticketed graduation ceremony was necessary due to anticipated construction at Delaware Stadium. The first phase of the $60 million renovation project will close part of the stadium and limit seating. Areas where construction is underway will be blocked off, and all precautions will be taken to ensure the safety of those attending Commencement.

Graduates in the Class of 2019 will receive one ticket for themselves for admission into the student section, plus an additional three general admission tickets for guests who wish to attend the ceremony. Student tickets and general admission tickets are not interchangeable.

Additionally, during the ceremony, alternate viewing areas featuring a live broadcast of the event will be available for those who wish to be on campus but do not have a ticket for access to the ceremony at Delaware Stadium.

Construction will also impact parking during Commencement; details on where to park will be available closer to the ceremony.

All graduates who plan to attend the Commencement ceremony in Delaware Stadium will be required to register online. Tickets for the Commencement ceremony will be released in mid-February. Additional tickets, if available, will be released at a later date.

It should be noted that the individual Convocation ceremonies for colleges and departments for Friday, May 31, 2019, and Saturday, June 1, 2019, will not be affected by the new policy. Complete information for Convocations and ticketing for ceremonies will be forthcoming from individual colleges.

Renovations to Delaware Stadium are part of a long-term plan to make UD’s athletic facilities consistent with other schools in the Colonial Athletic Association. The west stadium stands will be renovated to include new premium and club seat options, restrooms and concessions. The stadium will also incorporate press facilities /game day operation booths. The new Whitney Athletic Center will serve all student athletes and include an academic center, weight room, athletic training, sports medicine, multi-purpose space and an auditorium.

As information becomes available, updates will be posted on the Commencement 2019 website. Questions may be emailed to commencement@udel.edu.