UCNJ COMMENCEMENT INFORMATION FOR GRADUATES
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is a GradFest? GradFest is UCNJ’s exciting one-stop shop to help you get ready for the commencement ceremony. See enclosed flyer for more information.
Where do I get a cap and gown?
Caps and gowns for all graduates may be picked up at GradFest or in the College Bookstores on the Cranford or Elizabeth Campuses. You do not need to order your cap and gown ahead of time; however, you must be eligible and have applied for graduation. You may pick up your cap and gown with a picture identification starting on Wednesday, April 30, 2025. Visit the bookstore’s website for pick-up times after GradFest: www.ucccranfordshop.com or www.uccelizabethshop.com.
Where should graduates report on Commencement Day?
Commencement will be held outdoors (rain or shine) on the Cranford Campus. All graduates should report to the Cranford Campus one (1) hour prior to the ceremony. Graduates should follow signs to the Check-In location. Staff will be on hand to assist you.
| Degree Designation | Ceremony Time | Report Time |
| Associate in Science – A.S. | 10:00 a.m. | 9:00 a.m. |
| Degree Designation | Ceremony Time | Report Time |
| Associate in Arts – A.A. | 3:00 p.m. | 2:00 p.m. |
| Associate in Applied Science – A.A.S. | 3:00 p.m. | 2:00 p.m. |
| Certificate of Achievement – C.T.A. | 3:00 p.m. | 2:00 p.m. |
| Certificates – C.T. | 3:00 p.m. | 2:00 p.m. |
How do I obtain tickets for the ceremony?
Graduates may receive up to six (6) commencement tickets and can pick them up at GradFest on Wednesday, April 30, 2025. If you are unable to attend GradFest, you may pick up tickets Monday – Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. in the Dean of Students Office on the Cranford Campus or the Office of College Life in Elizabeth. At the Plainfield Campus tickets can be picked up Monday-Wednesday from 8:30AM-4:30PM from the Office of College Life. The last day to pick up tickets is Friday, May 16th. Any tickets not picked up by May 16th will be distributed among those asking for extra tickets. If your family will not be needing all six tickets, we ask that you only get the ones you need so that we have extra tickets to distribute. Please note: the ceremonies will be streamed live at https://livestream.com/UCC–TV.
How can I request additional tickets?
For additional tickets for the 10AM ceremony please complete the form at https://forms.office.com/r/Hgz849KmKx.
For additional tickets for the 3PM ceremony please complete the form at https://forms.office.com/r/GWCRTRrNUR.
The forms will become available on April 30th during GradFest and will close on
May 18th, 2025.
What if someone attending requires disability accommodations?
Ushers will be available at the ceremony to assist with any accommodations.
Will there be a commencement rehearsal?
Yes, a Commencement Ceremony rehearsal will take place on Tuesday, May 19, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. All participating graduates are strongly encouraged to attend. The rehearsal will be followed by a Graduation Social for graduates only.
What will happen if my guests show up without a ticket?
All guests must have a ticket to enter the commencement area, including children two (2) and older.
What should I wear to the Ceremony?
Graduates are encouraged to be comfortable and should understand that they may be standing for long periods of time. Commencement will be held outdoors, therefore please be prepared in case of inclement weather.
Why should I attend Commencement?
Commencement is a graduation ceremony to celebrate this memorable moment of your academic journey. We urge all to attend. However, if it is not possible, your diploma will be mailed to your address on file.
What do I need to bring to the ceremony?
Students must arrive with their cap, gown, and tassel as well as any academic/participation stoles or chords you have been awarded.
Will I have an opportunity to obtain a professional photograph as I walk on stage?
Yes. Once commencement is over, the photographer will send you information to the email address provided on the Name Card that will be provided to you during check-in. The email will include instructions on how to view photo proofs and place orders. Graduates and guests are invited to take pictures with our President, Dr. Margaret M. McMenamin, after the ceremony, free of charge.
When will I receive my diploma?
Your diploma will be mailed ten weeks after commencement to the address on file as long as you do not have any outstanding financial obligations and all graduation requirements have been met approximately 8-10 weeks after the ceremony.
Are strollers and balloons allowed in the commencement area?
Due to space and viewing restrictions, strollers and balloons will not be permitted in the commencement area. Please leave strollers and balloons in your vehicles.
Can I bring flowers into the ceremony?
Yes, flowers are permitted.
Can I walk in the commencement line with a bag?
Graduates are encouraged to bring very limited or no personal items into the area. If you must carry a purse/tote, please carry one of compact size that can be worn under your gown. You will not be allowed to walk across the stage holding anything in your hands. Please make sure your phone fits in your pocket. Staff will not be responsible for any personal belongings left at the check-in location.
Where can I meet my family and guests after the Ceremony?
At the conclusion of the ceremony, graduates will recess out of the ceremony area and can meet their guests in the back of the parking lot. All guests will be required to remain in their seats during the recession of the graduates.
What if there is inclement weather?
The Ceremony will take place outside rain or shine. There will be a plan in place in case of thunder/lightning.
Who can I speak to if I have additional questions?
Questions about eligibility to graduate should be directed to Deadra Holman at graduation@ucc.edu.
Questions about the ceremony should be directed to the Dean of Students Office at commencement@ucc.edu.
