FAQs

When can I reserve on-campus housing for Commencement?
You can reserve your housing by downloading, completing, and returning the Housing registration Form. 

My student is graduating in December. Is there a special event for students who graduate at this time?
Students who graduate in December may participate in the formal Commencement held in May. December graduates and their family members are also invited to a reception held in their honor in December. This reception is not a formal commencement ceremony but is an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of students who complete their coursework in December.

How much travel time should I plan for the morning of Commencement?
We suggest that you plan to leave for campus at least two and a half hours prior to the beginning of the Commencement ceremony. Traffic is very heavy on the morning of Commencement, so you'll need this extra time for travel, arrival and parking on campus, and finding a seat at the stadium.

Where am I permitted to park on campus on Commencement weekend?
You may park in any legal space or where directed by Public Safety officers. More information is available in the Accommodations section of the Commencement website.

Can I bring my dog if it's on a leash?
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed in the stadium or on the campus. Please leave your pet at home.

How should I dress for Commencement?
Dress in layers, so that you're comfortable no matter what the temperature. We also suggest comfortable shoes for walking from the parking lots to the stadium and around campus.

Should I bring anything with me to Commencement?
Because of bleacher seating at the stadium, you may want to bring a cushion or blanket to sit on. We also suggest bringing appropriate outdoor accessories, such as sunscreen, a windbreaker, rain gear, an umbrella, and mittens. Concessions are not available at the stadium, so you may also want to bring refreshments with you. (Please note that glass is not permitted in the stadium.) Coffee will be available on campus

Can I bring champagne for my graduate?
Alcoholic beverages are not allowed in the stadium during Commencement. We suggest you reserve that celebration for your post-Commencement meal or party.

Can I view the Commencement ceremony from somewhere other than the stadium?
Yes. The Commencement ceremony will be broadcast on cable at various indoor viewing areas across the campus, as well as off campus. Guests who may be affected by excessively hot or cold weather or who have other limitations may want to use this service. More information is available in the Cablecast/Webcast section of the Commencement website.

Is a video of Commencement available for purchase or download?
A video of Commencement is not available for purchase. However, if we have permission from the speaker, we leave the broadcast of the ceremony on the Commencement website through the summer. If we don't have permission from the speaker, we edit out that portion of the ceremony.

Do you offer handicapped seating?
Handicapped seating and parking are available. You must register in advance for a parking permit and tickets for the handicapped seating area. Arrangements for special seating must be made by the Friday immediately preceding Commencement. Please call the Office of Public Safety, weekdays from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., at 607-274-3756 to register.

Are restrooms available in the stadium?
Portable restrooms are available for guests on the field level of the stadium and near the stadium in adjacent parking lots.

Whom can I ask for help the day of Commencement?
Ushers, wearing gold vests for easy identification, will be available in the stadium to assist guests and answer questions.

Where can I buy flowers or balloons for my graduate?
A number of florists and grocery stores are available in the area for such purchases. The Ithaca/Tompkins County Convention and Visitors Bureau can provide you with a current list of names and locations.

Do you have a question not answered here?
Please submit it to commencement@ithaca.edu.