Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply for graduation?

Filing deadlines for students to submit their graduation application online through CUNYfirst for the 2011 - 2012 period are as follows:

*Students applying for summer graduation must file a graduation application by April 1 to have their name included in the Commencement Program Booklet. The Commencement Ceremony is held only once a year—at the end of the SPRING semester. If you do NOT file by April 1, you can still take part in the ceremony; however, your name will appear in next year's program.

The term Commencement refers to the ceremony, which will be held on Thursday, May 31, 2012.

How do I RSVP for the Commencement Ceremony?

Candidates who submitted their graduation application online through CUNYfirst will be receiving postcards containing instructions on how to RSVP for the Commencement Ceremony and related information. An RSVP link will also be available on computer kiosks throughout the campus and on this website.

When does the ceremony begin, how long does it last, and where is it held?

The ceremony begins at 9 am, is roughly 2 hours long, and is held on the College Quad rain or shine.

When should graduates arrive?

8 am

Where do graduates report on Commencement Day?

There are only two reporting areas (assembly areas):

• Department of Social Sciences will assemble outside of the Student Union
• Arts & Humanities, Education, and Math & Natural Sciences assemble outside Kiely Hall, north side (facing Klapper Circle and playground)

NOTE: Print the Reader's Card from the link that you received in your QC email confirmation from your online RSVP and bring it on Commencement Day.

Where do I get my cap and gown?

Preorders for caps and gowns are being accepted before midnight, April 3. Preordered caps and gowns will be available for pick-up and payment at the Student Union bookstore starting May 7. You may also wait until May 7 to purchase your regalia at the bookstore.

Preordering ensures the following:

• Quick checkout at the bookstore.
• Ensure you will have the correct type and size gown.
• Ensure the bookstore will carry the correct master's/doctorate hood.

Preorder now!

• Bachelor's candidates must wear a black cap, tassel and bachelor's gown.
• Master's candidates wear black cap, tassel, master's gown and appropriately colored hood. (Bookstore knows color).

Important Notes:

• If you have a black cap and gown, you do not have to purchase another set.
• Bachelor's gowns are NOT the same as master's gowns.
• Cap tassels are worn on the right front side of the cap, and are switched to left at conferral of degrees.
• Caps tend to slip. Hair pins will help.

If you have any questions or concerns, you may contact bookstore staff at 718-997-3573 or email them at queens@bkstr.com.

Do I need tickets for Commencement or any of the departmental ceremonies?

Seating for guests at Commencement and all department ceremonies is on a first-come, first-served basis; no tickets are required. There is no limit on the number of guests allowed. The only exception is for the ceremony held by the Division of Education. For more information on obtaining education tickets, please visit the Division of Education Commencement website.

Where is my department ceremony?

Click here for locations.

Where do I park?

Parking is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Parking is available on lot numbers 5, 6, 14, and 15. All lots will be open at 7 am and remain open until filled. Please note that parking is extremely limited and public transportation is recommended.

When do I get my diploma?

The Registrar's Office will mail your diploma approximately 12 to 15 weeks after your date of conferral. Be sure the Registrar's Office has the correct address on file; you may verify your mailing address on CUNYfirst. Undeliverable diplomas will be returned to the Registrar's Office and will be kept on file for a limited time. Please call the Registrar's Office or email them if you do not receive your diploma. 

Fall 2011 and Winter 2012 graduates who would like to view their unofficial transcript and grades may do so by accessing their CUNYfirst account.

How about the Silhouette yearbook, graduation photos, and class rings?

• Graduation photos
  • www.ouryear.com (School code 87135) 800-687-9327
• Class rings
  • collegerings.herffjones.com 800-837-4235
  • www.jostens.com 800-854-7464
  • www.balfour.com 877-225-3687
• Yearbook
  • www.jostensyearbooks.com ($75) 877-767-5217

When will my name be called?

Individual names are called at the departmental ceremonies, when the graduates walk across the stage, but not at the college-wide Commencement Ceremony.