Class of 2026 Final Exercises and Diploma Ceremony

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School of Data Science Final Exercises and Diploma Ceremony

Sunday, May 17, at 2:00 pm
Old Cabell Hall

The University of Virginia School of Data Science will celebrate its graduating students on Sunday, May 17, during the University’s Final Exercises Weekend. The day will include the Academic Procession and Final Exercises on the Lawn, a School of Data Science open house, and the School’s diploma ceremony.

Details for 2026 are being finalized. The information below provides an overview of what to expect based on previous years. Final schedules, ticketing information, locations, and additional guidance will be posted once confirmed. Graduates and guests are encouraged to check back regularly for updates.

Event Overview

A general outline of the day’s activities includes:

• Academic Procession and Final Exercises on the Lawn
  Tickets are required. Graduates may request up to six (6) tickets for the Lawn Ceremony by following the instructions at the Major Events Ticket website.
• School of Data Science Open House
  The School of Data Science will be open on the day of Graduation and we welcome graduates and their guests to stop by and explore the space, rest, and visit with faculty, staff, and fellow graduates before the Diploma Ceremony.
• School of Data Science Diploma Ceremony
  The School will host its diploma ceremony at Old Cabell Hall at 2 p.m.. Tickets are not required.

Registration

Graduates are asked to complete the online RSVP form for the Data Science Diploma Ceremony no later than April 13, 2026. 

Tickets

There is a limit of six (6) tickets per graduate for the Lawn Ceremony. In the case of inclement weather, the ceremony will be moved indoors to John Paul Jones Arena and there will be a limit of 3 guests per graduate. Children aged three years old and older require their own ticket. 

Review the Lawn Tickets website carefully for instructions and information on how to request and claim your tickets. 

Questions, concerns, or troubleshooting Final Exercises Tickets can be communicated to: gradtickets@virginia.edu.

Parking

Parking options for Final Exercises Weekend typically include multiple University garages and lots. Shuttle locations and guidance is available via the Major Events Parking and Transportation website.

Regalia

Graduates are required to wear full academic regalia for both Final Exercises and the Diploma Ceremony. Details about regalia pick-up dates, purchase options, and guidance for online graduates is available on the Major Events Caps and Gowns website.

The UVA Bookstore does not ship regalia. It must be picked up in person by the graduate with a valid photo ID. Master’s students must also purchase an academic hood for an additional $45.

Arrival Instructions for Graduates

Information about where graduates should assemble and when they should arrive for both the Academic Procession and the Diploma Ceremony will be provided closer to the event.

Inclement Weather

Final Exercises traditionally proceed on the Lawn unless severe weather requires relocation. Updated inclement weather plans, including venue changes and any ticket adjustments, will be communicated through the University’s Major Events website.

Diplomas

Diplomas are mailed to graduates following degree conferral. Additional details, including mailing timelines and instructions for updating diploma addresses, will be added here once finalized.

What to Wear

Guidance on appropriate attire, footwear, and the University’s clear bag policy is available on the Major Events Safety, Policies and Security website..

Accessibility

Information about accessible parking, seating, transportation, and services can be found on the Major Events Accessibility website. 

Accommodation needs for the School of Data Science Diploma Ceremony can be submitted via the online RSVP form or by emailing sds_graduation@virginia.edu. 

Additional Information

The University’s Major Events website will continue to serve as the primary source for updates about Final Exercises Weekend. More details specific to the School of Data Science will be added to this page as they are confirmed.