Commencement Kickoff
Thursday, April 10, 2025
Commencement Ceremonies
Saturday, May 17, 2025
Buffalo State Sports Arena
School of the Professions - 9:00 a.m. (doors open at 8:00 a.m.)
School of Arts and Sciences - 1:00 p.m. (doors open at 12:00 p.m.)
School of Education, including Individualized and Multidisciplinary Studies - 5:00 p.m. (doors open at 4:00 p.m.)
Tickets are required to attend. Ticket information will be sent to students who have applied for graduation. Alternative viewing options are available. The Commencement website has complete information for students, families, faculty and staff.
Please refer to the Code of Responsibility that applies to all participants and attendees. The Code of Responsibility outlines safety policies, and includes a list of prohibited items. By accepting a ticket to Commencement you agree to abide by the Code.
How do I obtain tickets for Commencement?
Students who have applied for graduation will receive communication about Commencement Kick Off and the ticket distribution process in late March. Commencement tickets are distributed at the Barnes & Noble Bookstore at Buffalo State located inside the Campbell Student Union beginning on Commencement Kick Off day.
Can I have more than the allotted number of tickets?
Unfortunately, we do not have more than the allotted number of tickets per student available. On the day of Commencement, you can check at the Guest Services booth outside of the Sports Arena to see if there are any extra tickets. There is also live streaming available in the in the Social Hall, second floor of the Campbell Student Union. This is an excellent option for guests without tickets, including those with small children. Seating is comfortable and the venue is air conditioned. Following the ceremony, graduates can meet with their families and guests at the reception on the first floor of Campbell Student Union. The ceremonies will also be live streamed on Buffalo State's You Tube Channel.
Do children and/or babies need a ticket?
Yes. Everyone needs a ticket to count towards capacity in the Sports Arena. Those with young children may find the viewing in the Social Hall more comfortable as it is air-conditioned and children can move around easier. No ticket required.
I can't make it to Commencement Kick Off, can someone pick up my tickets for me?
No. Commencement tickets can only be released to the graduating senior. Tickets will continue to be distributed at the Barnes & Nobel Bookstore up until Wednesday, May 15 during regular business hours. For those out of town or unable to get to the bookstore you can email to request your tickets be held at Guest Services for pick up on commencement day. Please include your name and Banner ID in your email.
Can I have my tickets mailed to me?
No. Please contact commence@buffalostate.edu with your name and Banner ID if you are an out-of-town graduate. Arrangements can be made to have your tickets held at the Guest Services booth located outside the Sports Arena on the day of commencement.
Where can we park for Commencement?
Parking on campus will be free and ample on commencement day. Once on campus, signage will direct you to general parking, accessible parking, barrier-free entrance drop-off, and building entrances for guests, graduates, and barrier-free access. Guest parking for Commencement is available in Lots G-20, 22, 24, R-13, I-39. Campus Map.
My guests require special accommodations.
There is a barrier-free drop off and entrance for the Sports Arena at the westernmost doors (closest to Parking Lot G-24), there will be signage. Wheelchairs are NOT provided. Hearing/interpretive assistance will be provided at all ceremonies. Requests for large-print program must be made by email at least one week prior to the ceremony.
Where do I get my cap and gown?
Caps, gowns and other Commencement related items can be purchased at the Barnes & Noble Bookstore at Buffalo State beginning at Commencement Kick Off. Purchases can be made right up until commencement day, however, the longer you wait the less size availability you will have.
What time should my guests arrive?
Seating begins one hour prior to the start of each ceremony. Seating is first come first serve and you should allow extra time to pass through security checkpoints.
How long is the ceremony?
The ceremony is approximately two hours long.
Is there any type of reception?
Yes, following each ceremony there is a reception in the lobby of the Student Union. It is free and everyone is welcome to attend.
