The University Procession steps off through Faunce Arch and is led by the chief marshal, a member of the 50th Reunion class. All graduating students march through the Van Wickle Gates, which swing open twice a year: inward to admit incoming students during Convocation and outward to discharge the new graduates during Commencement.

Alumni who have returned for Reunion march with their classes. Once the last person is through the Van Wickle Gates, the Procession inverts and alumni and undergraduates continue down College Street, with each participant applauding the others.