Frequently Asked Questions

Are tickets necessary for Commencement or Convocations?

Tickets are not required for Commencement or Convocations. There is no limit on the number of guests per degree candidate.

See Tickets

What is the difference between a Convocation and Commencement?

The Dean of each SU school and college and SUNY ESF hosts a Convocation on the Saturday before Commencement during which each student walks across the stage for individual recognition. Each school presents its student awards.

Commencement is the all-university ceremony in the Carrier Dome on Sunday. Syracuse University Chancellor and President Nancy Cantor and State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry President Cornelius B. Murphy Jr., ceremoniously confer degrees at the Commencement ceremony.

What are the qualifications for participation in Commencement?

Bachelor’s and master’s degree candidates who plan to complete their coursework by August 2010 are invited to participate in the 2010 Commencement ceremonies.  Under extenuating circumstances, candidates who do not meet this requirement may petition their home college(s) for permission to participate.

Doctoral degree candidates must be certified by May 16, 2010 to participate.

It is the student’s responsibility to know and fulfill all degree requirements for graduation. Participation in Convocation and Commencement ceremonies does not indicate that degree requirements have been completed.

See Qualifications For Participation

How can I receive the Commencement information booklet?

The Office of Special Events mails the Commencement information booklets in March to SU students who complete the "File Diploma Request" process on MySlice by mid-February;  and to the parents of those undergraduate students who have filed their Diploma Request on MySlice; and to all eligible SUNY ESF students.

Where can SU students complete the "File Diploma Request" process?

SU undergraduates and graduate students may file the Diploma Request online at MySlice. 

I am an international student and I would like to invite a family member from a foreign country to attend graduation ceremonies.  How can I get an invitation letter?

Please follow the instructions on the website of the SU Slutzker Center for International Services(SCIS) at http://international.syr.edu/form_invitation_letter_request.htm.    Should you have any questions regarding this form, contact the SCIS at lescis@syr.edu. 

What hotels are in the area?

Visit the Lodging page for a detailed list of hotels and housing options. Central New York hotels generally require a two-day reservation during Commencement weekend. It is important to book early since area hotels often sell out.

Is campus housing available for guests?

A maximum of 500 beds will be available in residence halls on north campus for a weekend package only. Reservations for these rooms can be made beginning Monday, March 2.

See Lodging

When and where do degree candidates get caps and gowns?

All degree candidates participating in Convocations and Commencement are required to wear academic dress. The Syracuse University Bookstore coordinates cap and gown distribution. No preordering is necessary. Undergraduate degree candidates will be given their gowns free of charge. Master’s and doctoral candidates will rent their caps, gowns, and hoods.

See Cap and Gown

Where is parking available for Commencement?

Free parking is available in campus lots and garages. On Sunday, additional parking is available at Manley Field House with shuttle service to and from the Carrier Dome. Handicap accessible shuttle buses will also run between Manley Field House and the Carrier Dome on Sunday.

There is no shuttle bus service on Saturday, however public transportation through Centro is available. Check Centro for schedules.

See Parking

Do you offer seating for guests in wheelchairs or with mobility limitations?

Guests with mobility limitations or disabilities may sit in an accessible section of the Carrier Dome during the Sunday, May 10 Commencement ceremony.  Download and print the Special Needs Request Form from the Disability Information page.

For Saturday convocations, it is not necessary to request or prearrange seating for special needs. Ushers at each venue will assist you.   

See Parking and Disability Information

What time should degree candidates arrive to the Commencement ceremony?

Commencement is on Sunday, May 16, 2010.  Students should arrive before 9 a.m. and enter at Gate D.

See Commencement Schedule and Seating

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