Frequently Asked Questions

People often use these terms interchangeably, but they are different.

Graduation: Graduation refers to completing your degree or certificate program and earning your diploma. Your academic transcript will indicate that a degree or certificate has been conferred. 

Commencement: The University-wide celebration of all graduating students. It typically includes speeches from the president, honored guests and a student speaker who represents everyone.

YES. You have to file for graduation via SOLAR, preferably at the beginning of your last term. This triggers an audit so we can check and make sure you have met all of your requirements. While you can file for graduation later, please notes that there are deadlines associated with filing that may affect your ability to participate in commencement activities.

If you are taking your last class in the Summer and want to participate in Spring commencement activities, do not apply to graduate until you have registered for your Summer courses.

The University's Commencement  includes all graduates from every school in the University. It skews heavily toward the undergraduate population. It is a big production that involves thousands of people and usually has hig profile speakers. It is held in the football stadium (outside – rain or shine). Graduates get a limited number of tickets for their guests and they will not have their name called out on stage.

SPD's Convocation is a smaller, more intimate ceremony for graduates of all of the School's programs. Each graduate will have their name announced as they walk across the stage. This year, the event will be in the Arena, which will have ample seating for guests. 

If you have questions about Commencement, please visit the University Commencement website.

You can invite up to 10 guests. After you file for graduation and indicate you're coming to this event, Conference and Special Events will contact you with information about reserving tickets on their portal.

Yes. We need to know how many people are coming and if there are any special needs. Use this link to RSVP.

Yes. No matter which ceremony you choose to attend (the University or SPD ceremony), you must have regalia.

If you have a disability that might make it a challenge to process, walk up stairs, or hear instructions, please send us an email at spdcommunications@stonybrook.edu and we will get back to you.

If your guests have mobility challenges, please note that there is accessible seating as well as ramps and elevators in the SB Arena. They should plan to arrive soon after the doors open at 4:30 to find an event staff member to assist.

Get more details on Arena accessibility

The Stony Brook Arena is located on Toll Drive. The Wang Center is a short walk away. While there are multiple lots available, the best strategy might be to park in the LaValle Stadium lot, which is located between the two sites. View the parking map to see the other lots available, including handicap parking.

Of course, but it will be hard for them to get close to the stage. Guests are not allowed on the Arena floor. There will be a professional photographer taking pictures of each graduate.

This ceremony will be livestreamed.

Contact us at spd_graduationandcertification@stonybrook.edu.