Brown University’s 257th Commencement and Reunion Weekend will be held on May 23-25, 2025. 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

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

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. An email with further information and deadlines will be sent to your Brown email address.

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, held in late April, or directly from the Bookstore. Master’s students receiving dual degrees should select only one hood color. Concurrent undergrad/graduate students may purchase and wear master's OR undergraduate regalia.