Convocation FAQs

Your Convocation Questions, Answered

Everything You Need to Know About Convocation

The College of Business Convocation is a special event that celebrates the achievements of our graduating students. We are excited to welcome graduates, families, and friends to this memorable occasion. Below, you'll find important information to help guide you through the ceremony and answer any questions you may have.

General Questions

• What is the difference between commencement and convocation?
  Commencement is the university-wide ceremony celebrating all graduating students and typically features speeches from university leadership and invited guests. Convocation is a more personalized ceremony hosted by individual colleges or departments, like the College of Business, where graduates are individually recognized and walk across the stage as their name is called.

College of Business Convocation Questions

• When is the College of Business Convocation?
  The College of Business Convocation is scheduled for Wednesday, May 20, 2026, at 4:00 PM, held at the Stony Brook Arena.
• What time should graduates arrive?
  Graduates should arrive by 3:00 PM for candidate check-in and line-up in Pritchard Gym. The procession begins promptly at 3:45 PM, and staff will be on hand to assist you upon arrival.
• What should I wear to the ceremony?
  Arrive dressed in your cap, gown, and hood, and wear sensible shoes as you'll be using stairs during the ceremony - elevator and ramp use will also be available.
• How do I order my regalia (cap and gown)?

  Undergraduate & Graduate Candidates!

  Order your regalia between January 19 - March 6, 2026, and have your regalia ready to pick up at SBU Campus Store April 22 - May 15, 2026 (During hours of operation only. Check the SBU Campus Store website for up-to-date information).

  Order regalia between January 19 - April 27, 2026, and have your regalia shipped to your home.

  Please contact the SBU Campus Store team at sbucampusstore_customerservice@stonybrook.edu with any questions regarding regalia.

  Pre-Order Your Regalia Today

Guest Questions

• Are there any restrictions on items guests can bring into the Arena?
  The following items are prohibited at commencement ceremonies: outside food/beverage, including thermoses, coolers, alcoholic beverages, backpacks, luggage, strollers, umbrellas, noise makers and balloons, weapons, laser pointers, fireworks, aerosol cans and non service pets. All bags are subject to search.
• Do guests need tickets to attend the ceremony?
  Yes, this is a ticketed event. All guests over the age of 1 must present a ticket for entry into the College of Business Convocation. Eligible candidates who complete the Apply to Graduate form and indicate participation in College of Business Convocation in SOLAR by April 15th will be eligible to claim guest tickets on the Commencement website beginning on April 28th. Unclaimed tickets are not guaranteed after the portal closes on May 12th. CoB candidates will receive 3 tickets each and be able to request 1 additional ticket. All tickets are free of charge - you will not be billed. Children aged 1 and older require a ticket. Candidates participating in the ceremony do not require a ticket to participate.
• What time do the doors open for guests?
  Guest doors open at 3:00 PM. Elevators and accessible seating options will be available, and staff will assist with accommodations.
• Where should guests enter the Arena?
  Guests should use the main entrance doors on John S. Toll Drive.
• Can guests access the arena floor?
  No, guests are not permitted on the arena floor before or after the ceremony.
• Is there accessible seating available for guests with disabilities?
  The Stony Brook Arena is equipped with accessible seating, ramps, and elevators. Guests requiring accommodations should arrive early to ensure availability.