Commencement

Congratulations to our Lumberjacks and the families and friends who support them! Commencement marks the achievement of your hard work and celebrates this memorable milestone.

Find ceremony schedules, guest information, and important resources for NAU’s 2026 Commencement events.

Celebrate your achievement and get ready for the big day. This page has everything you need, from ceremony times to ticket details, to help you prepare for your celebration.

Spring 2026 Commencement

NAU's Spring Commencement will take place May 8-9, 2026 at the J. Lawrence Walkup Skydome in Flagstaff.

Friday, May 8, 2026

10 a.m.

  • College of Education
  • The W.A. Franke College of Business

3 p.m.

  • College of Arts and Letters
  • College of Health and Human Services
  • College of Nursing

Saturday, May 9, 2026

10 a.m.

  • College of the Environment, Forestry, and Natural Sciences
  • Steve Sanghi College of Engineering

3 p.m.

  • College of Social and Behavioral Sciences
  • NAU Yuma

Fall 2026 Commencement

Save the date! Fall commencement is scheduled for December 11, 2026.

Watch the ceremony live

Can’t attend in person? Watch the livestream of NAU Commencement on YouTube.

Plan your visit

Graduating student information

Check your NAU email regularly for instructions on ordering regalia, RSVP's, and guest ticket requests.

Guest information

Find everything you need to know to enjoy Commencement as a guest.

Sign up for our commencement guest email list to receive important updates and event information.

Commencement guest guide

What to expect

  • A clear bag policy will be in effect at all Commencement ceremonies.
  • All ceremonies will be held at the J. Lawrence Walkup Skydome in Flagstaff.
  • For real-time event info, text “Hi” to 833-511-0151 to chat with Cappy, NAU’s Commencement chatbot.
  • Download the NAUgo app to access schedules, maps, and updates on the go. Available in the Apple App Store and Google Play.
  • In support of NAU’s carbon neutrality goal, Commencement programs are digital-only. The official program will be posted online the week of the event, and commemorative single-page programs are handed out at the event. 
  • Uber and Lyft services are available at the San Francisco Parking Garage (P96B). A continuous shuttle service will transport guests between the garage or P62 and the Skydome throughout the day.
  • Altitude advisory: Flagstaff sits at 7,000 feet. Be sure to hydrate, take breaks, and monitor for signs of altitude sickness.

Spring 2026 commencement ceremonies

The graduate RSVP and guest tickets request form will be open from February 23-April 10. All eligible graduates will be sent more information to their NAU email beginning in January 2026.

  • Graduates must RSVP to participate in their commencement ceremony.
  • All guests ages 4 years or older need tickets to attend a commencement ceremony.

Please note: Only graduates are able to request guest tickets, and all guest tickets will be issued to the graduate in their tassel account.

Learn more about guest details

Directions and parking

We’re excited to welcome you to campus! Be sure to learn how to get here and instructions for parking on campus as a guest ahead of time.

Get directions and parking details

University convocations/celebrations

In addition to the main ceremonies, convocations and college receptions recognize academic accomplishments, leadership, and student identity.

View special events