You are here: American University Commencement 2024-2025 Commencement Schedule
Commencement at American University
All American University Commencement ceremonies take place in Bender Arena and will be live-streamed. Each ceremony lasts approximately two to two and a half hours. Ceremonies include both undergraduate and graduate students for each school.
Fall 2024
Sunday, December 15, 2024
- 9:00 a.m.
- College of Arts and Sciences
School of Public Affairs
School of Communication
Washington College of Law - 1:30 p.m.
- Kogod School of Business
School of International Service
School of Education
Professional Studies
Spring 2025
Friday, May 9, 2025
- 9:00 a.m.
- College of Arts and Sciences
- 2:00 p.m.
- School of International Service
Saturday, May 10, 2025
- 9:00 a.m.
- School of Public Affairs
- 2:00 p.m.
- School of Communication
- School of Education
- 6:00 p.m.
- Kogod School of Business
- Graduate and Professional Studies
Saturday, May 17, 2025
- 10:00 a.m.
- Washington College of Law
Graduation Celebrations
American University’s Affinity Graduations are designed to celebrate the commencement and academic achievements of students from historically underrepresented communities.
Graduating Student Celebration
Wednesday, December 4
6:00 - 8:00 p.m. ET
Constitution Event Hall
Join the American University Alumni Association as we celebrate your upcoming graduation! Reminisce with classmates, network with alumni, collect AU graduation gifts, snap a celebratory photo, enjoy refreshments, and learn about alumni groups, programs, and various alumni exclusive benefits. This event will feature remarks from university leadership, members of the alumni community, including the American University's Alumni Board and D.C. Young Alumni Chapter, and representation from various university departments. The program will be followed by a celebratory reception that will include music, refreshments, giveaways, and a photo booth.
Wednesday, December 4
6:00 - 8:00 p.m. ET
Constitution Event Hall
Join the American University Alumni Association as we celebrate your upcoming graduation! Reminisce with classmates, network with alumni, collect AU graduation gifts, snap a celebratory photo, enjoy refreshments, and learn about alumni groups, programs, and various alumni exclusive benefits. This event will feature remarks from university leadership, members of the alumni community, including the American University's Alumni Board and D.C. Young Alumni Chapter, and representation from various university departments. The program will be followed by a celebratory reception that will include music, refreshments, giveaways, and a photo booth.
Please Join as Your Schedule Allows | Business Casual Preferred, Casual Attire Welcome.
For any questions, please email alumnievents@american.edu
This event does not confirm conferral of degree.
Wednesday, December 5
4:00 p.m. ET
Mary Graydon Student Center, Rm. 128
Join us for an inspiring toast featuring keynote speakers, and recognition of our graduating students.
Affinity Stoles/Cords be presented on a first come, first serve basis to Asian & Pacific Islander, Black & African Heritage, First-Generation, Latinx, Military-Affiliated, and LGBTQ students graduating in December 2024.
Students must confirmed and cleared to graduate in December 2024 to be eligible for this program.
**Light Refreshments will be served**
Join us for an inspiring toast featuring keynote speakers, and recognition of our graduating students.
Affinity Stoles/Cords be presented on a first come, first serve basis to Asian & Pacific Islander, Black & African Heritage, First-Generation, Latinx, Military-Affiliated, and LGBTQ students graduating in December 2024.
Students must confirmed and cleared to graduate in December 2024 to be eligible for this program.
**Light Refreshments will be served**