Graduation
Harvard Commencement is a day-long affair filled with tradition, joy, and a profound sense of accomplishment.
First, at 7:30 am, the graduates of each of the Harvard schools, including the Harvard Extension School, begin their procession to Harvard Yard for the Morning Commencement Exercises (8:50 to 11:30 am), and are accompanied by bagpipers, drummers, and festive banners.
As part of the Morning Exercises, graduates have their degrees conferred ceremonially by President Drew Faust and the dean of each school. Second, all Harvard graduates go to various university locations to receive their hard-earned diplomas. The Harvard Extension School diploma awarding ceremony is held in the Loeb Drama Center, American Repertory Theatre, and begins at noon.
Third, and finally, all the Harvard graduates go back to Harvard Yard for the alumni speeches and the keynote address from 3 to 5 pm.
Also see Graduation Requirements.