Below are some highlights from the W&M Commencement page as of February 2, 2026! Encourage your student to check their email for new information as it comes out, and be sure to bookmark the Commencement page to peruse the updates yourself!
Schedule
While the schedule is subject to change, Commencement generally follows this yearly pattern:
- Thursday: Phi Beta Kappa Initiation and Reception; ROTC Commissioning Ceremony; Asian, Pacific Islander, and Middle Eastern Ceremony and Reception; Baccalaureate Service; and the Candlelight Ceremony.
- Friday: Lavender Graduation; Ceremonia Raíces; Donning of the Kente; and the University-wide Main Ceremony.
- Saturday: Departmental Diploma Ceremonies and Receptions.
Regalia
Students are required to wear academic regalia for both the Main Ceremony and departmental ceremonies. Regalia is now available for purchase via the W&M/Oak Hall website.
- Online ordering for Bachelors and Masters regalia is now available through April 14th, 2026!
- After April 14th, 2026, Bachelors/Masters regalia can only be purchased in person at the W&M Spirit Shop & Bookstore.
- Both Bachelor and Masters regalia will be available for purchase during the W&M Bookstore Grad Fair on March 17th and 18th, 2026, 10am-4pm.
The W&M Spirit Shop & Bookstore is your contact for all regalia and graduation merchandise. Please email wmcloth@wm.edu with any questions.
Senior Portraits
Remind your student to routinely check their email for available dates to take Senior Headshots in February, March, and April! Registration will open a few weeks before each date. Students can have their pictures taken in their outfit of choice and/or in a university-provided hood and gown.
