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Commencement

#OswegoGrad

Congratulations, Graduates!

We look forward to honoring our graduates at the 164th Commencement Ceremonies, held on Saturday, May 17, 2025, at the Deborah F. Stanley Arena and Convocation Hall in the Marano Campus Center.

Commencement Ceremony

  • College of Liberal Arts and Sciences: 9 a.m.
  • School of Business: 12:30 p.m.
  • School of Communication, Media and the Arts & School of Education: 4 p.m.

Important Information

Tickets required

All guests must present a valid ticket to enter. Tickets are required for both floor and general seating. No re-entry will be permitted without a ticket. Graduates will receive six tickets with the purchase of regalia. Request additional tickets.

Early arrival encouraged

Doors will open one hour prior to each ceremony. Guests should arrive at least 30 minutes before the start time to allow for check-in and seating.

Bag checks and security protocols

Bag checks will be conducted at all arena entrances. Please avoid bringing large bags, signs, balloons, noisemakers or other items that violate campus policy. Items not in compliance are not permitted into the arena.

Signs must be no larger than 8.5 x 11 inches and cannot be made of metal or hard plastic.
You can review the full Event Signage and Expression Policy in advance.

Entry and seating reminders

  • Accessibility seating is available both on the floor and in the arena bowl. Guests needing accommodations should plan to arrive early. As always, those needing accommodations to attend should email Accessibility Resources, [email protected] in advance to reserve specific seating.
  • Beyond that, floor seating is first-come, first-served and available until the processional begins.
  • Once floor seating is full, entry to that area will close.
  • Lower arena doors will close once the platform party enters.

Cap and Gown Price

Academic regalia is an integral part of the graduation ceremony. The different colors and styles denote the achievements of the wearers. Since graduation is the most important of SUNY Oswego’s academic ceremonies, it is vital that all candidates for graduation are appropriately attired. 

The cost of regalia is as follows:

  • Bachelor units are $95.99 for students in Liberal Arts and Sciences, School of Business and School of Education.
  • Bachelor units are $110.99 for School of Communication, Media and the Arts students.
  • Master units are $116.99. 

Please call 315-312-5900 for additional prices. Post-Baccalaurate (graduate) certificate candidates should purchase a Bachelor’s gown (only exceptions are if you are ALSO receiving a Master’s Degree) at the price listed, and will not wear a hood.

SUNY Oswego does not charge a mandatory graduation fee. In many schools, this would be added to each student’s last tuition bill regardless of whether the student attended the ceremony. Instead, the cost of certain items that are critical to staging the ceremonies is included in the price of your cap and gown. Some examples of these expenses include the reception after the ceremony, programs, diploma covers, and flowers. SUNY Oswego takes pride in providing a pleasant opportunity for graduates and their families to celebrate graduates’ achievements with faculty members and university staff.  

Questions?

Email us at [email protected]