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The University of New Mexico

FAQs

Everything you need to know about the School of Engineering Convocation

Can I go to UNM Commencement and SOE Convocation?
Yes! We always book the School of Engineering Convocation at a separate time so graduates can attend the University Commencement if they wish.

If you only have time to attend one of the two ceremonies, we recommend you choose the Engineering Convocation! SOE’s Convocation has been thoughtfully planned to celebrate the hard work of our graduates and is more intimate than UNM’s Main ceremony. More Engineering faculty attend the SOE event, and traditionally there is a reception immediately following the event where you will have a chance to socialize with SOE faculty before you head onto the next exciting chapter of your life!

Do I need to sign up to attend?
Yes, and when you sign up you will have the option to sign up for the University Commencement and/or Engineering Convocation. Please note that this Spring, there will be two University Commencement ceremonies, one for undergraduates and another for graduates. You can sign up at https://graduation.unm.edu/. To RSVP for the SoE Convocation, click on the Convocations tab and look for the School of Engineering Spring 2026 Convocation.

I graduated in Fall of 2025, or I am graduating in Fall of 2026. Can I participate in the SOE Spring 2026 Convocation?
Yes, you are welcome to participate in the Spring 2026 SOE Convocation ceremony. However, you will not be able to utilize the official UNM RSVP for the Spring 2026 SOE Convocation. Instead, please RSVP using our Non-Spring/Summer ’26 graduate RSVP Form.

What time do I need to be there?
You should show up 40-60 minutes prior to the ceremony start time. You’ll need this time to go through the metal detectors at the West entrance, check in and get your name card, and then line up for the procession of graduates. Your guests will also need this time to find the best seats and be ready to cheer you on!

What if I arrive late?
A staff member will wait at the check-in area for any latecomers. They will give you your name card and guide you to graduate seating. If you arrive after the other graduates have been seated, you will be shown where to sit, most likely behind your department. When you hear your department called to the stage, please stand and join your classmates to be recognized and processed across the stage. If you arrive after your department has been recognized, we can’t guarantee that you will be allowed to walk.

Who will hood me? (master’s or PhD only)
Generally, your MS or PhD advisor will hood you, but you must ask them in advance. If you don’t have an advisor, you can either ask your favorite faculty member or have the chair of your department hood you.

How long is the ceremony?
The ceremony lasts on average one and a half hours.

How many guests can I invite?
Unless you see a restriction on our website, there is no limit to the number of guests you may invite.

Do I have to wear a cap and gown?
No. But it is encouraged, and the majority of our graduates do buy and wear their cap and gown.

What if I’m graduating in the summer?
If you’re graduating in a summer semester, you’re welcome to participate in the Engineering Convocation in the Spring before you graduate, or the Spring after you graduate. Summer 2026 graduate names are included in the Spring 2026 Program. For information about attending a UNM Commencement, go to graduation.unm.edu.

Will there be a printed program for my guests?
In the spirit of being ecologically mindful, we have moved away from a large, physically printed program. We now print a smaller event schedule that includes a QR code for the full program. These documents can be easily printed on any home printer for those who want a physical souvenir.

When will I receive my actual diploma?
Your diploma is created by the University Registrar’s office once all of your final semester grades are in and your degree is certified. For Fall graduates, you can generally expect your diploma to come in the mail in mid-February. Spring graduates can expect theirs in mid-July. For additional information, see: https://unm.custhelp.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/2061/kw/diploma/related/1

What about photos of the event?
We will have a professional photographer at the event, GradImages. They will take a few photos of you during the event, and will send you an email when the photos are available to preview and purchase.

Is there anything else I need to know?

  • Balloons, glitter or confetti, and glass vessels are prohibited.
  • There are metal detectors and a clear bag policy in place for all convocation events. All bags that are brought into the facility must be clear and measure no larger than 12" x 6" x 12". View policy: https://golobos.com/clear-bag-policy/. 
  • Parking at the Pit is free of charge. When planning your arrival, ensure you allow ample time to find a parking spot and walk to the entrances; Northeast entrance for guests, and West entrance for graduates.
  • For all SOE Convocation events, please leave all valuables and personal belongings with your family/guests or at home! There is no storage for personal belongings, and you will not be returning to the same seat after your walk.
  • There will be a reception at the Pit, immediately following our convocation ceremony. Before you head out into the world as a new graduate, please join your fellow graduates and Engineering faculty & staff for cake, cookies, and lemonade at the reception. At the end of the ceremony, we will direct you to the reception area.