Convocation FAQs

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.

The College of Business Convocation is scheduled for Wednesday, May 20, 2026, at 4:00 PM, held at the Stony Brook Arena.

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.

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.

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 reg

Pre-Order Your Regalia Today!

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.

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.

Guest doors open at 3:00 PM. Elevators and accessible seating options will be available, and staff will assist with accommodations.

Guests should use the main entrance doors on John S. Toll Drive.

No, guests are not permitted on the arena floor before or after the ceremony.

The Stony Brook Arena is equipped with accessible seating, ramps, and elevators. Guests requiring accommodations should arrive early to ensure availability.