Frequently Asked Questions

Eligibility
Who is eligible to attend the NYU Shanghai 2026 Commencement?

Seniors who are getting degrees conferred in Spring 2026 (i.e. 128 credits by graduation) and received approval from the Academic Office and seniors who are getting degrees conferred in summer/fall 2026 (by earning a minimum of 112 credits and receiving approval from your academic advisor with a degree completion plan) and Fall 2024 Graduates who didn’t attend the Class of 2025 Commencement are eligible to attend the commencement.

Can I attend the NYU Shanghai 2026 Commencement if I am finishing in the Summer/Fall of 2026?

For Summer/Fall 2026 candidates, by earning a minimum of 112 credits and receiving approval from your academic advisor with a degree completion plan, the answer is yes, you can. Of course, this will be only a formal ceremony of you walking on the stage. Please make sure to apply separately with the Registrar for graduation to receive your diploma.

Ceremony Information
What happens at the Commencement Main Ceremony?

The Commencement Main Ceremony begins with a procession of Class of 2026 graduates, faculty members, and the platform party. The Commencement will include remarks by university leadership, a keynote address, speeches from student representatives, the ceremonial passing of the university torch, the conferring of degrees, and the conclusion with the Alma Mater.

Are individual names read at the Commencement Main Ceremony?

With the growing size of the graduating class and to ensure that families and guests can witness the recognition of each graduate, the reading of individual names will take place during the academic area ceremonies on May 17th.

Will the event be livestream, and where can I watch it?

Yes, the ceremony will be livestreamed to share this exciting day with friends and family who cannot be in Shanghai, the University will provide a Live Webcast of the ceremony. 

Tickets
How many Guest Tickets can I order?

Each participating student may request up to 2 guaranteed guest tickets for the main ceremony and up to 4 tickets for the academic area ceremony. You can also request extra tickets, which will be allocated by lottery. 

What if I no longer need some of my Guest Tickets?

Please only order the number of tickets you need. If you no longer require some of your allocated tickets, please let shanghai.seniorclass@nyu.edu know ASAP so your tickets can be offered to others who want to attend.

Can I give my spare tickets directly to classmates who need extras?

Seating zone will be assigned, so if you give your spare tickets to your classmates, their guests will be seated with your block of tickets. Please return spare tickets to the event organizers so that your tickets can be redistributed and families can be seated together (see above).

When can I collect my tickets?

Students will be able to collect their tickets during the graduation package pick-up two weeks before the ceremony. You will be notified by email of the confirmed date. Graduating students must present their student identification (Student ID card/Net ID number) to receive their guest tickets.

May I ask someone to pick up my gown and tickets?

Yes. That person will need to have an email or handwritten note indicating that you have asked them to pick up the items on your behalf. 

Do children need a ticket?

All guests must have a ticket.

Academic Attire
When will I receive my academic attire?

Every effort has been made to keep costs to a minimum. The academic attire will be provided as a rental for 150 CNY (with a 500 CNY deposit, refunded upon returning the gown) and purchased for 650 CNY; the cap and tassel will be given to you as a gift. The academic attire will usually be distributed during the graduation package pick-up day.

Do I have to wear academic attire at Commencement?

Yes, academic attire is required to attend Commencement.