Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I’m eligible to graduate and participate in Commencement?
Eligibility to participate in the All-University Commencement ceremony for the Class of 2023 is limited to students who have graduated or will graduate during the 2022-23 academic year. This includes:
- Those who have earned degrees or advanced certificates of study in September 2022
- Those who have earned degrees or advanced certificates of study in January 2023
- Those who are candidates for a degree or advanced certificate of study in May 2023
Visit the University Registrar's website for information regarding:
I’m expected to graduate in May 2023. Do I need to apply for graduation?
Yes, for May 2023 candidates to participate in Commencement-related activities, the deadline to apply for graduation for graduation will be Monday, February 15, 2023. In addition to your application deadline, you will have to meet the requirements deadline of May 16, 2023. All requirements associated with your graduation status must be satisfied by this date.
I won’t complete all of my credits in May 2023 to fulfill my degree requirement. Can I participate in graduation ceremonies?
Candidates for September 2023 graduation who have up to two courses remaining to complete their degree requirements (which must be completed by the end of summer) may request permission to participate in May 2023 Commencement-related activities from their school’s designated academic officer as a Dean's Exception.
My guests and/or I need visas to travel to the United States to attend Commencement. How do I request an invitation to include in a visa application?
If you or your guests need US visas to attend Commencement and/or your school ceremony, visit the Office of Global Services’ international visitors webpage and other recommended documentation for international visitors arriving for Commencement, which includes how to request an NYU Commencement letter of invitation.
What happens at the All-University Commencement ceremony?
The All-University Commencement ceremony recognizes each year's graduates from all of NYU's schools. The program will include remarks by leadership and select student speakers, the awarding of honorary degrees, the presentation of student representatives from each school, the traditional Ceremony of the Torch, and the conferral of degrees. Before the ceremony begins, there will be a procession of faculty members and of the platform party.
Are individual names read at Commencement?
With over 18,000 graduates in each class, individual candidate names cannot be read at the All-University Commencement. Instead, a student representative from the graduating class at each school will receive a symbolic diploma on behalf of their classmates.
How long is the Commencement ceremony?
The All-University Commencement Exercises will be approximately 90 minutes to two hours long.
When can I order a cap and gown?
Academic attire will become available in mid-March 2023 to graduates.
How do I get tickets for Commencement?
In mid-March 2023, an invitation to Commencement will be sent to all graduates and ticketing will launch at that time. Tickets will be required for all graduates and their guests for entry.
I'm graduating with departmental and Latin honors. How are these recognized?
Details about Latin honors, including the GPA cutoffs, are on the University Registrar's Graduation Honors page. The University does not distribute tassels or cords for Latin honors.
Some schools might distribute cords for certain internal honors. Please reach out to your school with questions about departmental honors.
I am a University Honors Scholar (Founders Day Scholar). How do I receive my recognition?
University Honors Scholars receive a certificate and a gold tassel that they may wear at Commencement and other graduation events. The University Registrar will contact any University Honors Scholars with more details about their tassel and certificate.
When will I receive my diploma?
Diplomas are mailed to graduates 6-8 weeks after graduation. Make sure to update your mailing address in Albert. For further information, visit the Registrar’s website.
How do I update my contact information for future alumni communications?
Keep your contact information up to date in Albert and through Alumni Relations at nyualumni.com/new-grads.
What is GradBot?
GradBot is an AI chatbot that can answer questions related to the All-University Commencement. Graduates and Commencement attendees can opt into GradBot to get Commencement information. GradBot will go live in mid-March. Details on how to opt in to GradBot will be posted at that time.