FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
FOR PARTICIPANTS
WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN COMMENCEMENT AND GRADUATION?
The word “Commencement” refers to the official ceremony that recognizes students’ academic accomplishments with College faculty, administration, trustees, and staff, as well as with students’ friends and family. Students who are close to completing their degree requirements are invited to participate in this ceremony. However, participation in the ceremony does not mean that the student has graduated, nor will students who participate in Commencement receive their official diploma during the ceremony.
“Graduation” is the term that refers to the formal completion of a five-step process, to qualify for a degree or certificate, you must be:
- Matriculated and have completed all course requirements for the degree or certificate program with a minimum GPA of 2.00
- Satisfied all financial obligations at the time of graduation
- Earned at least 50% of the degree or certificate at the College
- Been recommended by the faculty for the degree
- Ready to apply for graduation in myCayuga at least one semester before graduation
The Registrar’s Office will mail diplomas to members of the graduating class.
WHO CAN PARTICIPATE?
Students completing a degree and/or certificate requirements in December, January, May, and August are eligible to participate in Commencement. Students who have reached 30 credits (institutional and transfer) and have a minimum 1.75 GPA will be able to apply for graduation through the online student portal, MyCayuga.
HOW DO I ORDER AND PICKUP MY CAP AND GOWN?
You can order your cap and gown by phone, email or in-person.
- Email: sm8041@bncollege.com
- Phone: 315-294-8686
- In-Person: At the Auburn Campus Bookstore ONLY
The following information is needed at time of order:
- Full name
- Email address (not Cayuga email)
- Phone number
- Approximate height and weight
- Cap size (regular or large)
- Where you would pick up your order (Auburn Campus or Fulton Campus)
No orders will be accepted after Friday, March 15.
IS THERE A COMMENCEMENT REHEARSAL?
There is not a rehearsal, but check your college email address regularly for updates regarding arrival time/location prior to the ceremony.
WHAT TIME SHOULD I ARRIVE AT THE COMMENCEMENT CEREMONY?
Details will be available soon. Check your college email regularly for updates regarding arrival time/location prior to the ceremony.
WILL I RECEIVE MY DIPLOMA AT COMMENCEMENT?
No, graduates participating in Commencement will receive a diploma cover at the ceremony. Diplomas are mailed to graduates.
DO MY FAMILY AND FRIENDS NEED TICKETS TO ATTEND COMMENCEMENT?
No. Tickets are not required to attend Commencement. There is no limit on the number of guests per graduate. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
WHERE IS PARKING AVAILABLE FOR COMMENCEMENT?
There are several parking lots located next to Falcon Park. Each of these will be open for the ceremony. There will be signage and individuals directing traffic as well.
DO YOU OFFER SPECIAL SEATING AND ACCOMMODATIONS FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES?
Yes. If family members or other guests have a need for limited mobility access, contact Liz Gallo at egallo@cayuga-cc.edu, as soon as possible so that we can be sure to accommodate them.
Special requests for students with disabilities for the Commencement ceremony should be made to Karen Grella by emailing karen.grella@cayuga-cc.edu.
WHAT IF I STILL HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT COMMENCEMENT?
If you still have questions about commencement, contact Liz Gallo at egallo@cayuga-cc.edu.