George Mason University (GMU), Virginia’s largest public university, will host its 2025 Spring Commencement on May 15 at EagleBank Arena.

This historic milestone will mark nearly 11,800 students set to receive degrees and certificates. This record-breaking class includes graduates from 117 countries and reflects the university’s growing diversity and deepening impact on local and global communities.

The main university-wide commencement ceremony—known as the “Spring 2025 University Commencement”—will begin at 9:30 a.m. on Thursday, May 15.

The event will feature keynote remarks from Martina Cheung, President and CEO of S&P Global, and a speech by a selected student representative from the graduating class of 2025.

The George Mason University Wind Symphony will perform, adding ceremonial depth to the occasion.

This year’s graduation ceremonies span four days—from May 14 to May 17—and include individual degree celebrations held by Mason’s various schools and colleges.

These events will honor students in a more personal setting, with college-specific speakers and recognition for each graduate as they cross the stage.

A Record Year for Graduates

The university will confer 11,415 degrees and award 691 certificates this spring, the highest number in its history.

Among the degrees granted are 6,875 bachelor’s, 3,975 master’s, and 400 doctoral degrees, along with 165 law degrees from the Antonin Scalia Law School.

George Mason’s Class of 2025 stands out not only for its size but for its diversity. Nearly one in four graduates is the first in their family to earn a college degree—a testament to Mason’s commitment to expanding access to higher education.

Students hail from 117 countries and 49 U.S. states, including territories such as Puerto Rico and American military bases abroad.

The university’s top five undergraduate majors this year are Business, Information Technology, Computer Science, Psychology, and Criminology/Law/Sociology. At the graduate level, high-demand programs include Data Analytics Engineering, Computer Science, Special Education, Curriculum and Instruction, and the MBA.

A striking 41% of undergraduate and 48% of graduate students are completing degrees in STEM and health sciences—underscoring George Mason’s role in supplying critical talent to key industries in Virginia and beyond.

Outlook for the Class of 2025

According to the university’s internal career outcomes survey, 85% of George Mason’s 2024 graduates secured positive career outcomes within six months of graduation, with a median starting salary of $70,000. That strong employment rate and income benchmark point to the value and competitiveness of a Mason degree.

This year’s graduates are expected to follow suit, especially with many entering fast-growing STEM and healthcare sectors. University officials anticipate that Mason alumni will continue to lead and innovate across industries, public service, and academia.

Individual College Celebrations

Between May 14 and 17, each university’s college will host its own degree celebration. These events offer a more intimate opportunity for graduates to be individually recognized.

Most celebrations will occur at EagleBank Arena, with some held at the university’s Concert Hall.

College Ceremony Schedule Highlights:

May 14 (Wed):
- Schar School of Policy and Government – 4:30 p.m., EagleBank Arena
May 15 (Thu):
- College of Engineering and Computing I (Computing School) – 2:00 p.m., EagleBank Arena
- College of Visual and Performing Arts – 3:00 p.m., Concert Hall
- College of Engineering and Computing II (Volgenau School) – 6:30 p.m., EagleBank Arena
May 16 (Fri):
- College of Humanities and Social Sciences – 9:30 a.m., EagleBank Arena
- Carter School for Peace and Conflict Resolution – 11:00 a.m., Concert Hall
- College of Science – 2:00 p.m., EagleBank Arena
- Donald G. Costello College of Business – 6:30 p.m., EagleBank Arena
May 17 (Sat):
- College of Education and Human Development – 9:30 a.m., EagleBank Arena
- Antonin Scalia Law School – 1:30 p.m., Concert Hall
- College of Public Health – 2:00 p.m., EagleBank Arena

At each event, bachelor’s and master’s graduates will be called individually to the stage. Guests must present tickets, while graduates must bring their “Tassel Stage Pass” for entry.

Graduation Logistics and Accessibility

Doors open one hour before each event. All guests aged two and older must present a valid ticket, which is distributed free via university email links.

The university warns against third-party ticket resellers, emphasizing that official tickets are never sold or subject to fees.

While graduates do not need standard tickets, they must register for and present a “Tassel Stage Pass.” Free parking is available in Lots A, C, and K on the Fairfax campus, but heavy traffic—especially around Braddock Road—is expected. Attendees are encouraged to use public transportation or arrive early.

Accessible parking is offered near EagleBank Arena, particularly in Lot A and Mason Pond Drive, with convenient entry points along Roanoke River Road and Nottoway River Lane. The arena also features designated seating areas for individuals with disabilities and their guests, with staff on hand to assist.

The university urges all attendees to remain seated until the conclusion of each ceremony, showing respect for the graduates, faculty, and their families.

Graduation Requirements and Diploma Delivery

To graduate, students must apply online via Patriot Web by the posted deadline. The Degree Compliance Team reviews each application twice, and any outstanding requirements must be addressed in coordination with academic advisors.

Students who miss final requirements during the six-week grace period following commencement must reapply for graduation in a future term.

Diplomas are mailed approximately six to eight weeks after degrees are awarded. Prior to mailing, graduates will receive a digital diploma link from Parchment, the university’s diploma partner, followed by an email confirmation once physical diplomas are shipped.

George Mason’s 2025 Spring Commencement is more than a milestone—it’s a celebration of resilience, excellence, and the shared journey of thousands of students who are ready to lead, innovate, and uplift their communities.

As they step into the world, they carry with them not just degrees, but the hopes and possibilities of a generation prepared to shape the future.