Home
/
Graduation
/
Commencement

Graduation Process

Commencement

Regalia

Social Media Kit

Commencement

Español

中文

Commencement Ceremony

Events

DTS Commencement occurs once a year at the completion of the Spring term. All graduates from the 2025–2026 academic year (including previous Fall 2025 graduates) are invited to participate in the Commencement festivities in May 2026. We highly encourage graduates from all locations (online and extension sites) to join us in Dallas for the Commencement Ceremony.

Commencement Chapel is a sacred gathering that invites graduates and their families to pause, worship, and give thanks for God’s work in the lives of our graduates. The service includes worship through music, a powerful message, and the presentation of commencement awards honoring both students and faculty.

A defining moment of the chapel is a time of prayer, as faculty surround the graduates and pray over them—committing their lives, callings, and future ministry to the Lord. Commencement Chapel serves as a meaningful spiritual foundation for the weekend’s celebrations.

Chapel Speaker
Dr. Ramesh Richard, Professor of Global Theological Engagement and Pastoral Ministries

Guest Dress Code
Business casual

Graduate Dress Code
Graduates should wear regalia robes and caps only (no hoods) over business casual clothing.

Attendance and Arrival

Graduates are welcome to bring as many friends and family members as they would like to Commencement Chapel. There are no tickets required or limits for this event.
Plan to arrive no later than 9:30 a.m. to allow time to park and find a seat.
Seating is not assigned for the Commencement Chapel—Graduates are encouraged to sit by the aisle at the end of the row.

Virtual Attendance

A livestream link to attend the Commencement Chapel virtually will be available at the top of this Commencement page at 10:00 a.m. CST on Friday, May 8, 2026.
A recording of the Commencement Chapel will be posted on the DTS Alumni website a few days after the event.

Live Translation Available for Spanish and Mandarin

DTS will provide live Spanish and Mandarin translation services for this event via Zoom. Please sign up for more information. For Spanish: Sign up here. For Mandarin: Sign up here. Translation channel Zoom links are also available at the welcome center/ information center on the day of the event.

American Sign Language (ASL) Interpretation & Reserved Seating

American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation will be provided during the Commencement Chapel. Reserved seating is available for guests who are receiving ASL interpretation services. Guests needing these accommodations are encouraged to register by emailing Disability Services. Please arrive early and follow onsite signage or consult a volunteer for assistance.

Accessibility & Reserved Seating

Accessible seating, including wheelchair and companion seating, is available for guests with mobility needs during the Commencement Chapel. Designated seating areas have been reserved to ensure comfort and accessibility. Volunteers will be available to assist guests and direct them to appropriate seating upon arrival.

No Childcare Provided

Unfortunately, childcare will not be available at the Commencement Chapel. Children are welcome to attend Commencement Chapel; however, we ask that crying or restless children be taken out of the sanctuary, as a courtesy to others. Parents of infants are welcome to use the cry room; our volunteers will joyfully direct you to one of the cry rooms.

No Refreshments for Guests
Refreshments (snacks/coffee) will be limited to volunteers, faculty, and graduates.
Guests are encouraged to plan for the Chapel and Ceremony accordingly.

Guests are welcome to visit our Dallas campus on Friday, May 8, 2026, from 1:00 to 7:30 p.m. The Dallas campus will be open for graduates, their families, and friends who may wish to visit the seminary. The Dallas campus will be closed on Saturday, May 9, the day of the Commencement ceremony.

Be sure to stop by our Commencement photo booth in the Bailey Student Center to take some fun photos with your family and friends!
Alumni will have exclusive access to self-guided Chafer Chapel tours from 3:00 to 4:00 p.m.
Graduates and their families are welcome to enjoy self-guided Chafer Chapel tours from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m.
Please be sure also to stop by and enjoy a self-guided tour of the new DTS Legacy Center.

Dallas Campus Parking

Event parking is available across the street from campus on Live Oak Street. The parking area is secure, and no passcode is required for entry.

Amenities

Restrooms are located in multiple campus buildings that will be open during the event.
The DTS Bookstore will be open from 1:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Hope Coffee will be open from 1:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Join us for Texas BBQ with Faculty, a fun-filled celebration for graduates, families, and faculty! Enjoy authentic Texas BBQ while kids delight in pony rides and a petting zoo. Make memories with family-friendly games on the Great Lawn, explore our historic campus, and visit the Bailey Student Center to tour Chafer Chapel with a fresh cup of Hope Coffee.

Be inspired at our new Legacy Center, where DTS’s story comes to life. Experience Paul in the Mamertine Prison, urging Timothy to “preach the Word,” then journey through a pictorial timeline, talking portraits, and immersive theater. From a single note to a symphony of God’s grace, our legacy continues—celebrate and be part of it!

BBQ Tickets

Tickets may be purchased starting on April 1, 2026, at bookstore.dts.edu or in person at our DTS Bookstore.
Meal tickets are $10 per person; children ages 5 and under are free.
There is no limit to the number of BBQ tickets a graduate can purchase.
Those not dining at the BBQ are welcome to join in the festivities without a ticket.
Physical tickets must be picked up in person at the DTS Bookstore and cannot be mailed.
To receive your tickets, please present either a digital or printed copy of your purchase receipt at the time of pickup.

Dress Code
Casual attire is recommended for this family-friendly outdoor event. Anticipate warm weather.

Accessibility & Reserved Seating

Accessible seating, including wheelchair and companion seating, is available for guests with mobility needs during the Texas BBQ with Faculty. Designated seating areas have been reserved to ensure comfort and accessibility. Volunteers will be available to assist guests and direct them to appropriate seating upon arrival.

Dallas Campus Parking

Event parking is available across the street from campus on Live Oak Street. The parking area is secure, and no passcode is required for entry.

Amenities

Restrooms are located in multiple campus buildings that will be open during the event.
The DTS Bookstore will be open from 1:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Hope Coffee will be open from 1:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

The international student graduation banquet is by invitation. Please contact the International Student Development Department for more information.

Dress Code: Business Casual

Childcare will not be provided

Dress Code: Casual

No Childcare Provided

Dress Code: Casual

No Childcare Provided

SF Graduation Fellows Reception is for SF Staff and the guests of graduating fellows.

Dress Code: Casual

No Childcare Provided

Registration required

Special gift for each graduate who attends

Dress Code: Casual

No Childcare Provided

Dallas Campus Parking

Event parking is available across the street from campus on Live Oak Street. The parking area is secure, and no passcode is required for entry.

Amenities

Restrooms are located in multiple campus buildings that will be open during the event.
The DTS Bookstore will be open from 1:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Hope Coffee will be open from 1:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Commencement is a meaningful celebration marking the completion of our graduates’ academic journey and God’s faithfulness throughout their time at the seminary. The ceremony includes worship through music, an inspiring message, and the formal conferral of degrees.

Graduates will participate in a processional and will cross the stage as their names are announced in recognition of their academic achievement. Family members and guests are invited to join us in celebrating this significant milestone through prayer, worship, and joyful recognition of our graduates.

Commencement Speaker

Jonathan Pokluda, Lead Pastor of Harris Creek Baptist Church, Waco, TX

Guest Dress Code

Business casual

Graduates Dress Code

Full regalia (including cap and hoods) over business casual clothing.

Attendance and Arrival

Graduates are welcome to bring as many friends and family members as they would like to the Commencement Ceremony. There are no tickets required or limits for this event.
Graduates must arrive by 8:00 a.m. It is essential that graduates arrive on time for a graduating class photo and important instructions.
Graduates will have assigned seating, which will be communicated to them upon arrival.
Guests should plan to arrive at least forty-five minutes early to ensure good seating. Guests are welcome to sit anywhere in the worship center not marked as reserved.

Virtual Attendance

A livestream link to attend the Commencement Ceremony virtually will be available at the top of this Commencement page at 10:00 a.m. CST on Saturday, May 9, 2026.
A recording of the Commencement Ceremony will be posted on the DTS Alumni website a few days after the event.

Live Translation Available for Spanish and Mandarin

DTS will provide live Spanish and Mandarin translation services for this event via Zoom. Please sign up for more information. For Spanish: Sign up here. For Mandarin: Sign up here.

American Sign Language (ASL) Interpretation & Reserved Seating

American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation will be provided during the Commencement Ceremony. Reserved seating is available for guests who are receiving ASL interpretation services. Guests needing these accommodations are encouraged to register by emailing Disability Services. Please arrive early and follow onsite signage or consult a volunteer for assistance.

Accessibility & Reserved Seating

Accessible seating, including wheelchair and companion seating, is available for guests with mobility needs during the Commencement Ceremony. Designated seating areas have been reserved to ensure comfort and accessibility. Volunteers will be available to assist guests and direct them to appropriate seating upon arrival.

No Childcare Provided

Unfortunately, childcare will not be available at the Commencement Ceremony. Children are welcome to attend Commencement Ceremony; however, we ask that crying or restless children be taken out of the sanctuary, as a courtesy to others. Parents of infants are welcome to use the cry room; our volunteers will joyfully direct you to one of the cry rooms.

No Refreshments for Guests
Refreshments (snacks/coffee) will be limited to volunteers, faculty, and graduates.
Guests are encouraged to plan for the Chapel and Ceremony accordingly.

Regional Events

The Houston Graduate Celebration is a worshipful and celebratory event honoring graduates and God’s work in their lives. The gathering includes worship, celebration, and the presentation of Houston commencement awards recognizing graduates.

Please note that this celebration is an additional opportunity to honor our graduates and does not replace the Dallas commencement events.

Guest Dress Code
Semi-Formal (Black Tie Optional)

Registration
Details Coming Soon.

Parking Instructions

Bridgepoint Parking Lots

West Parking Lot (Memorial View Dr. & I-10 Frontage Rd)

South Parking Lot (Eldridge St.)

Attendance

The graduate and one guest are free. Registration required for any additional guests. There is no limit on the number of additional guests. Additional cost for each guest is $27.

No Childcare Provided

The Atlanta Graduate Celebration is a joyful gathering inviting graduates and their families to worship, celebrate, and give thanks for God’s work in the lives of our graduates. The event includes worship through music, a time of celebration, and the presentation of an Atlanta commencement award honoring a graduate.

Please note that this celebration is an additional opportunity to honor our graduates and does not replace the Dallas commencement events

Guest Dress Code
Casual

Registration
Details Coming Soon

Parking Instructions

Parking is available in the front of the building

Attendance and Arrival

The graduate and one guest (spouse or significant other) are encouraged to attend.
Upon arrival, enter through the front doors, take the stairs or elevator up one level, then follow the signs to the event.

No Childcare Provided

The Washington, DC, Graduate Celebration is a Christ-centered gathering for graduates and their families to celebrate God’s faithfulness throughout their academic journey. The event includes worship, recognition of graduates, and the presentation of Washington, DC, commencement awards.

Please note that this celebration is an additional opportunity to honor our graduates and does not replace the Dallas commencement events

Guest Dress Code
Business casual

Registration
Details Coming Soon

Attendance
Graduates are encouraged to attend with their families, and guests are welcome

No Childcare Provided

Dallas Accommodations and Visa Information

Dallas Area Accommodations

Use the following link to access Dallas area accommodations and links for DTS discounted hotel rates.

Visa Information for International Graduates and Guests

International graduates and guests planning to attend commencement may travel to Dallas as visitors, and in many cases no special visa is required, depending on the country of origin.

Guests should consult the U.S. Department of State and the nearest U.S. Embassy and Consulates in their country of residence for current visa requirements and travel guidance.

Disability Services

Dallas Theological Seminary is committed to providing a welcoming and accessible Commencement experience and will make every reasonable effort to accommodate graduates and their guests.

Disability Accommodations for Graduates

Graduates may indicate the need for disability accommodations when submitting their graduation application. Graduates are also encouraged to contact Disability Services directly to share any accommodation needs.

Next Steps
Several weeks prior to Commencement, Disability Services will reach out to graduates who have requested accommodations to discuss specific needs. This conversation may include:

The type of accommodation requested
Whether accommodations are needed for family members or guests
Interest in an onsite walk-through of the Commencement Ceremony location (reservation required in advance)

Graduates are encouraged to share any additional information that will help Disability Services provide appropriate support for both Chapel and Ceremony events.

American Sign Language (ASL) Interpretation & Reserved Seating

Accessibility & Reserved Seating

ASL Services

American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters are available for Chapel and Ceremony.

Wheelchairs

Wheelchairs are available upon request. Contact Disability Services.

FAQs

If I am graduating in December, can I participate in May?

Yes. All graduates from the 2025–2026 academic year are invited to participate in Commencement festivities. This includes Fall and Winter 2025 graduates, who are welcome to walk in May 2026.

What happens if my references have not sent in their letters?

Graduates are required to submit both a Church Letter and a Personal Reference.
Please select references who are able to complete and submit their letters by the required deadline. We strongly encourage you to follow up with your references to ensure all letters are submitted on or before March 1, 2026.

For questions related to graduation reference letters, please contact Student Life.

How do I know that I am on the list to graduate or participate in Commencement?

Graduates who have submitted a graduation application may confirm your graduation status through the Student Portal.

Check Graduation Status:

Using your @dallasseminary.edu username and password, log into the Student Portal
Click My Profile (left-side menu)
Select Graduation and Career
Select Graduation Status
Click Graduation Status

Graduates who have indicated that they are participating in Commencement will receive a confirmation email with lines of march a few weeks prior to the Commencement Ceremony from the Office of Academic Affairs.

I filled out a graduation application, but now I cannot participate. How do I withdraw my participation?

The Registrar’s Office will update your participation in your graduation application. Please notify the Registrar’s Office.

When do I get my diploma?

Diplomas are printed and shipped by a third party (Parchment) approximately four to six weeks following the conferral of your degree. You will receive an email from Parchment with information regarding how to access your digital diploma and when to expect delivery of your physical diploma in the mail. This email from Parchment allows you to create a profile where you can check the status of your physical diploma.

For any questions regarding your diploma, please contact the Registrar’s Office.

Unanswered Questions? Contact us!

Graduation Process

Commencement

Regalia

Social Media Kit

Commencement

Commencement Ceremony

Events

Regional Events

Dallas Accommodations and Visa Information

Disability Services

ASL Services

Wheelchairs

FAQs

Dallas Campus Open