Commencement Location

University of Maine commencement ceremonies will be held at the Alfond Arena on the University of Maine campus.

On May 8

Students participating in the Graduate School Commencement can find student information on the Graduate School website.

On May 9

Graduates are expected to report to the New Balance Field House by 8:30 a.m. for the AM ceremony and 1:30 p.m. for the PM ceremony. Enter through the doors under the big M. Regalia obtained through the Bookstore must be worn to participate in ceremonies.

Bring or wear your cap and gown (regalia) to the Field House.  The tassels on your cap are to the right.

AM Ceremony

  • College of Earth, Life, and Health Sciences
  • Division of Lifelong Learning
  • Maine Business School

PM Ceremony

  • College of Education and Human Development
  • College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
  • Maine College of Engineering and Computing

At the Field House

Do not bring personal belongings to the Field House – the University is not responsible for lost or stolen items.

  • Obtain your blue reader card with your name pre-printed
  • Line up alphabetically with your college (your blue reader card will also have a number which will help you identify your location in line)
  • Students begin marching at 9:20 a.m. and 2:20 p.m. Graduates will be led through the center aisle of the Alfond Arena to their seats.
  • If you arrive late and the ceremony has already begun, find an usher to escort you to a seat. 
  • Once the ceremony begins, University staff will indicate when to go on stage.

During the Ceremony

  • University staff will direct students to the stage
  • Take your blue reader card with you on stage
  • Leave any personal belongings and the program at your seat
  • Hand the blue reader card to the reader
  • Proceed to your college Dean to receive your degree folder
  • The commencement photographer will take your picture as you walk across the stage
  • Shake hands with the President and the Provost
  • Continue off stage
  • Stop at the designated spot for the official graduation photo
  • Return to your seat as directed by the University staff
  • Remain seated for the entire ceremony out of courtesy to your fellow graduates