Brown University’s 258th Commencement and Reunion Weekend will be held on May 22-24, 2026. Visit the Commencement site for information about participating as a graduating master’s student, including how and when to wear regalia, take part in the Master’s Ceremony and invite guests to join the celebration.

COMMENCEMENT GUIDE FOR MASTER'S STUDENTS  WEEKEND OVERVIEW COMMENCEMENT DEADLINES

Requirements & Eligibility

Master’s students in terminal degrees are eligible to have degrees conferred, and to receive their diploma, at three different times during the academic year: October, February and May. To receive their degree, students must complete the Application to Graduate and have their grades and thesis/dissertation recorded by the Graduate School by the deadlines specified on the Registrar’s website.

Degree Requirements Master's Thesis Guidelines

About the Application to Graduate

The University can only graduate and generate diplomas for master’s students who complete the Application to Graduate. The application enables you to list your name as you would like it to appear on your diploma and be listed in the Commencement program. The default formula is first name, middle name, last name. Once logged into Banner, students should select the Student Records menu and select the Application to Graduate menu item.

Celebration

October, February and May graduates are welcome to participate in the Master’s Ceremony held in May. The Division of Master’s and Professional Programs will reach out to graduates in the spring semester with instructions for registering to attend and participate. Details about Commencement ceremonies and events can be found on the Commencement website. 
Guide for Graduating Master's Students

1. Register to Attend the Ceremony

Registration to attend the Master’s Ceremony must be completed on the Application to Graduate, as well as through the Tassel platform, which opens no later than early March. An email with further information will be sent to your Brown email address.

2. Purchase Academic Regalia

Regalia (cap or tam, gown and hood) or formal military attire should be worn for Brown’s Procession and Commencement ceremonies. Details about how to wear regalia can be found on the Commencement website. Master’s students may purchase regalia as part of a keepsake package during the Grad Fair on May 7, or directly from the Bookstore.
University Bookstore How to Wear Regalia (master's)

3. Sign up for photos

Brown has partnered with GradImages to capture your big moment. Photographers will be stationed to take photos before you cross the stage, as you shake the Fellow’s hand, and after you receive your diploma case. Sign up to receive an email with an option to select a free photo and order images (optional).

4. Fill out accessibility forms (if needed)

• If you as the graduate require disability accommodations for Commencement weekend, please contact Student Accessibility Services at 401-863-9588 or via email at SAS@brown.edu as soon as possible.
• Information regarding disability accommodations for guests is available here: Guest Accessibility Form.

5. Visit the Commencement website for up-to-date information.

All October, February and May graduates participating in Commencement should view and follow the steps on these pages of the website:
Guide for Graduating Master's Students