Convocation Information for Guests
The following information will help to ensure that you have an enjoyable and memorable experience with your graduate.
Tickets are required for students and guests, and can only be obtained in advance by the graduating student. All tickets will be distributed electronically and must be shown to enter the event, and graduates are responsible for distributing tickets to their guests directly. Please refer to the Convocation FAQ page and consult the Ticketing & Registration dropdown tab for more information.
Directions
The Visitors Center website includes comprehensive directions for traveling to campus via car or public transportation.
Parking
Parking is extremely limited during Commencement week. For more information, see this page on the University Commencement website.
International Visitors
If you will be traveling to Columbia from abroad, please have your graduate consult these instructions from the International Students and Scholars Office (ISSO).
Several local hotels offer discounted rates to visitors to Columbia University. Visit the University's Travel Portal for more information. We recommend making reservations as far in advance as possible.
Two Columbia affiliates have a limited number of guest rooms available.
Union Theological Seminary Landmark Guest Rooms
3041 Broadway (at 121st Street), New York, NY 10027
(212) 280-1313
Teachers College Guest Housing
517 West 121st Street, New York, NY 10027
(212) 678-3235
Leave Luggage and Valuables Behind
Columbia University asks graduates and guests to travel light. Bags of any type and gifts are not permitted for GSAS Convocation and University Commencement. Wallets and small clutches are allowed but subject to screening upon entry. Exceptions for ADA, nursing, and medically necessary items will be permitted following inspection. Any item requiring additional screening may delay entry.
We strive to create the best environment for our graduates and guests as we celebrate this momentous occasion. Columbia University has determined that a no bag policy will allow the University to continue to provide the best guest experience at Commencement and expedite entry for all guests.
Entering the Ceremony
Each guest has been assigned an entry queue, either Broadway and 120th St. or Amsterdam Ave. and 120th St. Please confirm your entry queue on your ticket. Volunteers and staff will be positioned around to assist with wayfinding and help direct you.
Guests with disabilities or limited mobility, older individuals needing assistance, or those in need of sign language interpretation should enter campus through the designated gate located at 116th Street/ South College Walk and Amsterdam Ave.
General admission guests line up no earlier than 30 minutes before gates open. (MA: gates open at 7:30 am for the 8:30 am Procession. PhD: gates open at 11:30 am for the 12:30 pm Procession.)
Please refer to this map for guest resources on South Lawn.
Visit Nous Espresso Bar
While on campus, we encourage you to visit Nous Espresso Bar in the Graduate Student Center (301 Philosophy Hall), which will be open to the public on Convocation Day, beginning at [time TBD]. The café offers food and beverages for purchase, including Blue Bottle Coffee, Rishi Tea, pastries, sandwiches, and more.
Guests with disabilities or limited mobility, older individuals needing assistance, or those in need of sign language interpretation should enter campus through the designated gate located at 116th Street/College Walk and Amsterdam Ave. Please refer to these maps for accessible routes on campus.
Commencement season is a time to celebrate and enjoy the accomplishments of our graduates. To honor the spirit and significance of this occasion, we do not permit the interruption of speakers or audience disruptions. Currently, all participants and guests attending Commencement season event(s) understand and agree to follow the responsibilities set forth in University policies, including the Rules of University Conduct, Anti-Discrimination and Discriminatory Harassment Policy, and Standards and Discipline. Those found in violation will be asked to discontinue and may be asked to leave the venue. If there are any future updates or changes, we will communicate directly to all registered guests and graduates.
By participating in the University Commencement ceremony and/or your school-specific ceremony, all participants are giving consent to being photographed, filmed, and recorded. Please note that these photos and recordings may be shared publicly or on social media at the University's discretion. An archived video will also be made available online for viewing after the event.