Dear Class of 2026,
As you approach the final stretch of your college journey, we’re excited to share details about an important milestone — Commencement. This special event is our opportunity to recognize the proud moment that college graduation represents, and to celebrate the incredible hard work, dedication, and perseverance you’ve shown in reaching this achievement. We look forward to honoring you and your fellow Ithaca College graduates!
Date and Time: Sunday, May 17, 2026, at 10:00 a.m.
Location: Glazer Arena, Athletics and Events Center
Arrival and Duration: Doors open at 9:00 a.m. Graduates should arrive no later than 9:15 a.m. and guests should be seated by 9:30 a.m. The ceremony is expected to end by 1:00 p.m.
Announcing Plans for May 2026 Commencement
Commencement is scheduled to be held on Sunday, May 17, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. ET inside the Athletics and Events Center's Glazer Arena.
RSVP for Commencement
In February, eligible graduates will receive an invitation to join Tassel, our official Commencement registration platform. Through Tassel, you’ll be able to:
- Confirm your participation in the ceremony or let us know you can’t make it.
- Submit pronunciation guidance for your name.
- Reserve and distribute guest tickets.
- Review additional next steps.
If you are expecting to graduate in May and do not receive any communication regarding your upcoming commencement by late February , please contact us at commencement@ithaca.edu.
Additional Details
To help you start your planning, below are some topics that we get asked about frequently.
Eligibility
Students are deemed eligible for Commencement once they have successfully applied for a degree through the Office of the Registrar. The May 2026 Commencement ceremony is offered to students who are graduating in December 2025, as well as May, July, August, October, and December 2026.
Regalia
Graduation regalia – cap and gown – is required for all Class of 2026 graduates planning to participate in the Commencement ceremony. Regalia is available through the Campus Store.
Guests
Once Tassel registration opens, we will begin by providing each graduate with up to FOUR guaranteed guest tickets. In April, any remaining tickets will be made available on a first come-first served basis with each graduate granted an opportunity to claim up to four additional tickets (for a total of eight) while supply lasts.
Livestream
In addition, the ceremony will be livestreamed, and an alternative viewing location will be set up on campus for any guests who cannot join us in the Glazer Arena.
Commencement Website
More information about Commencement Weekend can be found on the Commencement website, which will be updated periodically as the event date approaches. Please note that the website will be undergoing construction over the next few months and will debut a new look by February. We appreciate your patience as we enhance the site to better serve our graduates and their guests.
Class of 2026, it is our intention to offer you a meaningful, joyful moment that is reflective of all the magic that is Ithaca College. We cannot wait to celebrate with you and your loved ones in May!
Sincerely,
The Commencement Committee