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Before you arrive

A little preparation goes a long way on a day like this. Students are responsible for claiming and distributing tickets, so make sure your guests have theirs ready on their phone or printed before arriving – there’s no re-entry once you’re inside. Harpur graduates, don’t forget to pick up and bring your name card, since it’ll be scanned as you approach the stage so your name can be announced correctly. Try to travel light, too, as there’s no secure place for belongings, and you might not return to the same seat after crossing the stage. Caps and gowns are required, and while there’s no strict dress code, it’s best to dress for the occasion while still being comfortable since you’ll be sitting, standing, and walking throughout the ceremony.

What not to bring

To ensure a smooth and safe experience for everyone, certain items are not permitted inside the venue, including bags such as purses and backpacks, balloons, flags, signs, noisemakers, and pets or emotional support animals, except for service animals as defined by federal regulations. Clear bags and small wristlets are permitted, but for the fastest entry, it’s best to leave items in your car.

Getting to campus

Timing your arrival can make a big difference in how smoothly your day goes. Guests should not arrive earlier than one hour before the ceremony, as parking will not be available before then due to a changeover period between ceremonies. Arriving at the recommended time will help avoid traffic and make it easier to find parking closer to the venue. Once on campus, University Police and parking attendants will help guide you.

Arriving and entering the ceremony

Graduates should plan to arrive one hour before their ceremony to check in and line up, entering through the designated location for their venue: Events Center graduates use the east side floor-level entrance, and Anderson Center graduates enter through the main entrance and follow signs to Chamber Hall. There will be many signs and volunteers to guide you where you need to go. Guests may enter once the doors open 45 minutes before the ceremony and must have their tickets ready before arrival to ensure a smooth entry process.

What to expect

Commencement ceremonies typically last between an hour and a half to two hours, during which graduates will be recognized and have their names called as they cross the stage. Undergraduate students should wear their tassel on the right side of their cap before the ceremony begins, and will be instructed during the ceremony when to move it to the left, while master’s graduates may wear their tassel on the left from the start. The ceremony is a meaningful celebration of everything that led to this point, and while it may feel long, it goes by quickly once it begins!

Your moment: crossing the stage

When it’s your turn, your name card will be scanned as you approach the stage so your name and information appear correctly, and it’s important to stay in line after scanning to avoid any mix-ups. You’ll walk across the stage, receive your diploma cover, and then return to the seating area, though not necessarily to the same seat. It’s a quick moment, but one you’ll remember, so try to take it all in!

Photos and capturing the day

Professional photos will be taken as you cross the stage, and graduates can with GradImages to receive a discount on photo orders, as well as purchase a short video clip of their stage moment through . Many students also take photos around campus during Commencement weekend, but it’s recommended to plan these either before or after the ceremony to avoid crowds and to follow campus safety guidelines.

Honors and recognition

If you’re graduating with Latin honors, you’ll be recognized during the ceremony by standing as a group when prompted. Your current honors level is based on your cumulative GPA from Fall 2025, but keep in mind it’s considered tentative until final Spring 2026 grades are processed. Latin honors include cum laude (3.50–3.69), magna cum laude (3.70–3.84), and summa cum laude (3.85 or higher), and if earned, the designation will appear on your diploma and official transcript after degrees are awarded.

Can’t make it? Watch live

For friends and family who are unable to attend in person, all Commencement ceremonies will be livestreamed and available to watch online, making it easy for loved ones to still be a part of the celebration from wherever they are! The livestream can be found on the . Highlights from the weekend will also be shared on all University social platforms .

After the ceremony

While you’ll receive a diploma cover during the ceremony, your official diploma will be mailed to you six to eight weeks after the end of the semester using the address provided on your Application for Degree. Your diploma will include your name as submitted, along with any Latin honors designation if applicable, and while some schools include majors on diplomas, others list that information only on official transcripts. After the ceremony, graduates typically meet family and friends, take photos, and celebrate, so it’s a good idea to plan a meeting spot ahead of time.

Final note

This is a lot of information to take in, and while Commencement is exciting, it can also feel a bit overwhelming. As you prepare, remember to take care of yourself and prioritize your well-being. It took a lot to get here, through the highs and the lows, but we made it. Congratulations to the Class of 2026, and enjoy every moment! Find more information on all things Commencement here.

Emma Young works for the Office of Media and Public Relations as a digital content producer and is a senior majoring in English with a minor in education. She plans to pursue a career in public relations. In her free time, she enjoys baking, reading, and writing.