Here’s everything you need to help you feel prepared and excited for the big day.

Where and when is the main University Commencement ceremony?  

The main University Commencement ceremony is on Saturday, May 17, at 10 a.m. on the Rose Hill Campus. At this ceremony, all degrees are officially conferred by the president and students from each school are recognized as a group by their dean.

Do I need a ticket to attend the ceremony? 

Tickets are not required for entrance to the Rose Hill campus for the University Commencement ceremony on Edwards Parade. Most school diploma ceremonies take place outside and also do not require tickets. 

However, tickets are required in the event of severe weather, should the ceremonies move indoors. In the case of severe weather, there is a two-ticket limit per graduate.

Will there be a separate diploma ceremony for my college or school? 

Yes! After the University Commencement ceremony, there will be individual diploma ceremonies for graduates of each of Fordham’s schools and colleges. Some will be on the same day as the main ceremony, while others will not. Visit our commencement website for more information on diploma ceremonies and other commencement-related events. 

Do I need to line up somewhere specific before processing in the University Commencement ceremony?

Yes! All graduates should arrive at the appropriate lineup sites no later than 9:30 a.m. with their cap, gown, and if you’re a master’s or doctoral graduate, don’t forget your hood, which is required for participation. Signs will be posted that day to assist you in finding the exact location for your college or school. Be sure to check out the Commencement Day campus map–it has everything you need to know about where to line up by college or school, diploma ceremony locations, and where to go in case of severe weather.

How should I get to campus for the main commencement ceremony?

The University Commencement brings more than 20,000 people to the Rose Hill campus, making parking extremely limited. With Fordham’s largest graduating class ever crossing the stage this year, we strongly encourage the use of public transportation to get to campus on May 17. It’s the easiest and most efficient way to join the celebration without the stress of finding a parking spot. Visit our commencement website for more travel information, including a list of local hotels. 

What can I bring to the ceremony?

Backpacks and other large containers will not be permitted on campus and should be left at home. All bags are subject to screening upon entry to Fordham’s campus. Alcoholic beverages, including champagne, are not permitted at the University Commencement or diploma ceremonies.

Where/when can I pick up my cap and gown? 

Pickup locations and times differ depending on your school. Find the list.

Who is the commencement speaker? 

Award-winning actress and Fordham alumna Regina Hall will address the Class of 2025 at the University’s Commencement on May 17. In recognition of her exceptional career and commitment to using her platform for good, Fordham will present her with an honorary doctorate of fine arts at the ceremony.

Are the ceremonies accessible?

All ceremony locations are accessible, and all accessible restrooms will be clearly marked. There is no designated wheelchair seating at the ceremonies. However, you can pull up your wheelchair to any row at the ceremonies for seating. Find more information. 

What is the severe weather plan? 

Because we do not have one indoor facility that is large enough to hold all of our graduates and guests, we will hold the University Commencement ceremony outside if at all possible. Please be aware that if there is just a little rain or periodic showers, the ceremony will likely remain outside.

The decision regarding the severe weather plan will be made on the evening before the ceremonies. Two guest tickets are required if the ceremony moves indoors. Students can claim tickets beforehand. Find more information about the severe weather plan. 

I hear the Empire State Building will be lit Fordham maroon for the class of 2025. How can I join in the celebration? 

New York’s Empire State Building will glow Fordham maroon on May 16—the evening before commencement, to honor the Class of 2025. Learn how to join the celebration on social media and how to catch the remarkable view, even if you’re out of town. 

I can’t make it to campus for Commencement. Where can I watch the ceremonies?   

The University Commencement ceremony and each of the college and school diploma ceremonies will be livestreamed on our commencement website.

What events are happening during Senior Week? 

The 2025 Senior Week Committees and the Offices for Student Involvement at Rose Hill and Lincoln Center are proud to sponsor the Senior Week 2025 events for eligible graduating Seniors at each campus. Learn more and see the full schedule.

What hashtags or handles should I use when sharing photos or posts on social media? 

Join the celebration by using the hashtag #Fordham2025, and don’t forget to tag us @fordhamuniversity with all social posts. We can’t wait to see your photos and celebrate this special day with you! For all remaining commencement-related questions, visit our commencement website.

The maroon lights will be visible starting at dusk. Share your pictures of this special tribute and don’t forget to tag us or use #Fordham2025! Won’t be there in person? Watch it on the Empire State Building’s live cam.

Learn more about Fordham’s 180th Commencement, which will be held at the Rose Hill campus on Saturday, May 17.