Having commencement on the Saint peter's campus allows the entire University community to take pride in the university and the facilities it offers. The PNC Arts Center is geographically far for most of our families and it has no connection to the history, spirit or mission of the University. Holding commencement on campus also allows us to hold the Undergraduate and Graduate ceremonies as two distinct events on the same day.

Bringing commencement back to our campus this year provides an important opportunity for students and their families to return to the place that has been at the heart of their academic journey. In fact, some of our families had never had a chance to attend an event at the University, and this may be the only chance to do so. What a great opportunity to celebrate their loved ones at the institution! Celebrating this milestone on campus elevates the pride we feel in our students, in their accomplishments, and in the University itself. We will ensure that the venue is elegantly and thoughtfully decorated, creating an atmosphere that honors the occasion with dignity and joy.

Holding commencement on campus is a practice followed by many universities, because it highlights the importance of the alma mater and strengthens the connection between graduates, their families, the institution that has shaped their lives and the community we are proud of being. Being on campus will allow us to host two distinct ceremonies: one for undergraduates and one for graduate students, so that each group’s accomplishments are recognized with the attention and honor they deserve.

The Commencement Ceremony is Saturday, May 16, 2026. Undergraduate Ceremony is from 9:30 a.m. –  11:30 a.m. and Graduate and Doctoral Ceremony runs from 4:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.

The ceremony will be in The Victor R. Yanitelli, S.J. Recreational Life Center at Saint Peter’s University Jersey City, New Jersey 07306.

First, you need to “Apply for Graduation” by the deadline of February 25, 2026. You will know your graduation status once the Registrar’s Office sends you an official email with one of the following statuses:

• Official Graduation Status – Pending Successful Completion
  • This means you are on track to graduate, pending the successful completion of your remaining coursework.
• Official Graduation Status – Academic Requirements Complete
  • This means you have successfully completed all academic requirements for your degree.

Graduates are required to wear academic regalia (cap and gown). You can order your cap and gown through Keyplus.  The deadline to order regalia is March 2, 2026. No exceptions will be made.  Please note: Custom regalia is mandatory to participate in the commencement ceremony.

Each graduate can invite the following:

• 4 guests for the Undergraduate Ceremony
• 2 guests for the Graduate & Doctoral Ceremony

Each graduate will receive a designated number of guest tickets. If you need additional tickets, you may submit a request using the Extra Ticket Request Form. Please note that submitting a request does not guarantee additional tickets, as availability will depend on venue capacity and the number of requests received. Graduates will be notified if extra tickets become available.

Yes, the ceremony will be live-streamed for those who cannot attend in person. A link to the livestream feed will be made available on the University’s website.

• Undergraduate Ceremony: Graduates should Check-In starting at 7:30 a.m. (line up will begin at 8:30 a.m. and procession will begin at 9:00 a.m.)
• Graduate and Doctoral Ceremony: Graduates should Check-In starting at 2:30 p.m. (line up will begin at 3:30 p.m. and procession will begin at 4:00 p.m.)

No, there are no rehearsals before the ceremony.  The day of commencement, marshals will guide you on the flow of the ceremony.

Diplomas will be mailed to graduates who have completed all academic requirements and have no outstanding financial or other obligations to the university. Please review your Graduation Application on Self Service to verify that the address listed is where you would like your diploma delivered. Learn more about the diploma distribution process.

The university is accessible by public transportation, including buses and trains. Parking details will be provided closer to the event date.

Yes, designated parking areas will be available. Parking details will be provided closer to the event date.

The venue is wheelchair accessible, and special seating can be arranged. Contact commencement@saintpeters.edu for more information.

Yes, helium balloons, large bags and outside food and beverages are not allowed.

Yes, graduates are expected to remain for the entire duration of the ceremony.

Graduates should complete the Graduate RSVP form available on the Saint Peter's University Commencement webpage. Deadline: RSVP by March 2, 2026.

For further inquiries, please contact the Commencement Office at commencement@saintpeters.edu or call (201) 761-6035.

Yes! Graduates who would like to address their questions and concerns about Commencement are encouraged to attend Graduate Salute at Saint Peter's University on March 25, 2026. This event provides a dedicated space to receive important information, connect with campus partners, and ensure you are fully prepared for your big day.