Commencement Info for Graduating Seniors
Cap and Gown Purchase and Delivery:
March 20: Order caps and gowns online (Students have until midnight to order regalia). Contact the Bookstore for late orders.
April 15: Caps and gowns will be available for pick-up at the bookstore, and payment will be collected at that time. Students are encouraged to pick up their regalia early to avoid last-minute delays.
Other Deadlines:
May 9: Purchase extra Commencement Brunch tickets if needed (you will receive three tickets with your diploma). Tickets through Bon Appétit.
May 10: Pre-register your email with GradImages for your official photos.
Senior Reception, Friday, 4:30-6 p.m.
Celebration with faculty and staff, hosted by the Alumni Office. Enjoy appetizers, drinks, and special announcements.
Where: Smith Dining Room, Thomas Commons
Dress code: Business casual
Baccalaureate– Saturday, May 9 at 3 p.m.
Service with readings, reflections from the Chaplain and a graduate, words of gratitude from your peers (submit yours by midnight on April 16), and a keepsake.
When: Saturday, 3 p.m.; arrive at 2:30 p.m.
Where: Gym for lineup, then process to seats in the SAW Arena
Dress code: Academic gown (no cap)
Commencement Ceremony– Sunday, May 10 at 10 a.m.-noon
Sit with friends. Ceremony includes student and faculty speakers nominated by graduates. Pick up diploma and brunch tickets immediately following the ceremony.
When: Sunday, 10 a.m. to noon; arrive at 9 a.m.
Where: Gym to pick up name card and line up with friends, then process to seats in the SAW arena
Dress code: Academic gown and cap
Brunch– Sunday, May 10 noon–1:30 p.m.
Each graduate gets three free tickets when they pick up their diploma. Additional tickets available for purchase in advance or at the door. Cash bar.
Where: Hilltop Café, Thomas Commons
Additional information
Stoles and cords: Wear any respectful stole or cord. Provided by some organizations and honor societies. Cords are not provided for all-college honors.
Following the ceremony: Faculty will congregate at the back of the arena in five academic divisions marked by signs: Math and Natural Sciences, Social Sciences, Humanities, Fine Arts, and Interdisciplinary Programs.
Social media: Share your graduation moments using #CornellCGrad.
Photos and video clip: Professional photos by GradImages. Proofs sent within five days. Pre-register your email with GradImages for a discount. Every graduate receives a video clip of themselves as they cross the stage (or as their name is read if they cannot attend). Clips are emailed within 48 hours.
Residence hall checkout: 5 p.m. May 11
Contact