Graduation 2026

SIPA Graduation (also known as Class Day) will take place on May 21. On Class Day, we will recognize all SIPA’s master’s and PhD graduates and degree candidates from May 2026, February 2026, and October 2025. At the University Commencement on May 20, Columbia will officially confer academic degrees on graduates from every school.

2026 Graduation Information

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Thursday, May 21, 2026
11:00 a.m. (ET)
South Lawn, Columbia University’s Morningside Campus
(map)

Reception to follow

Graduates Assemble: 9:00 a.m.
Guest Seating Begins: 10:00 a.m.

VIEW THE PROGRAM

2026 Graduation Speaker

Know Before You Go

Transportation

For most people, New York City's subway system will be the best way to get to and from Columbia University during Commencement season.

BEST OPTION: NYC subway

Take the 1 Train. The 1 Train runs every few minutes during the day and early evening hours and serves the entire length of Manhattan’s west side. It connects many key locations including Midtown, Penn Station, Times Square, Lower Manhattan, Upper West Side, West Harlem, and Washington Heights to 3 of Columbia’s campuses.

*Please note that not all subway stations are wheelchair accessible. Use this link to view the full list of accessible stations.

Parking is extremely limited during Commencement season. We strongly encourage guests to use public transportation. 

Tickets

Tassel will be the central hub to reserve guest tickets. 

All guests must have tickets for entry. Guests will need to show a government-issued ID. Students must bring their Columbia ID and wear official Columbia University academic regalia (cap and gown, with gown unzipped) for entry. 

Parents and Guardians

Stoller parking is available on the Hamilton Lawn to the right of the ceremony space. Strollers must be retrieved prior to leaving the South Lawn for the reception at Ancell Plaza. There is also a lactation room available in Carman Hall, just past Butler Library. 

Columbia University Commencement: Graduate Ceremony

Wednesday, May 20, 2026
10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Columbia University, Morningside Campus
116th Street and Broadway, New York, NY 10027

Visit Columbia’s Commencement website for the latest information about the all-University ceremony.