UCNJ COMMENCEMENT INFORMATION FOR GRADUATES
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Commencement is a special occasion filled with tradition, pride, and joy. To make sure everyone can enjoy the day to the fullest, here are a few helpful reminders and expectations:
- No smoking, vaping, e-cigarettes, alcohol, drugs, or related items.
- Guests of any age will not be allowed to sit in the Graduate’s Area – If you have children, please arrange for someone to sit with them in the guest area.
- Please silence phones and devices so all can enjoy the moment.
- Out of respect for graduates and guests, the following items are prohibited: banners, flags, sign balloons, beach balls, confetti, confetti cannons, sparklers, noisemakers, air horns, and any other items that may be disruptive or obstruct views.
- An official photographer will take your photos as you cross the stage and again as you exit. Families will have the chance to purchase them later, so everyone can relax and enjoy the ceremony. Free candid shots of the ceremony will also be available in the college’s Flicker account therefore guests are asked to remain in their seats.
- Guests should plan to arrive at least 30 minutes early. When the formal entrance of graduates, faculty, and ceremony participants begins, doors will close temporarily, and late arrivals will need to wait until the procession is complete and doors reopen.
Remember, Commencement is a celebration of your hard work, your growth, and the bright future ahead. We’re so proud of everything you’ve accomplished and the determination it took to get here. Today is about honoring YOU and all that you’ve achieved.
Where do I get a cap and gown?
Caps and gowns for all graduates may be picked up at GradFest (12/3/25) or in the College Bookstores on the Cranford and Elizabeth campuses. You do not need to order your cap and gown ahead of time; however, you must be eligible and have applied for graduation. You may pick up your cap and gown with a picture identification starting on Wednesday, December 3, 2025. Visit the bookstore’s websites for pick-up times: www.ucccranfordshop.com or www.uccelizabethshop.com.
Where should graduates report?
All graduates should report to “We Are One New Jersey-Union County Center” at 1591 Irving St, Rahway, NJ at one hour prior to the ceremony. Graduates should follow signs to the check-in location. Staff will be on hand to assist you.
| Degree Designation | Ceremony Time | Report Time |
| Associate in Science – A.S. | 2:30 p.m. | 1:30 p.m. |
| Degree Designation | Ceremony Time | Report Time |
| Associate in Arts – A.A. | 6:00 p.m. | 5:00 p.m. |
| Associate in Applied Science – A.A.S. | 6:00 p.m. | 5:00 p.m. |
| Certificate of Achievement – C.T.A. | 6:00 p.m. | 5:00 p.m. |
| Certificates – C.T. | 6:00 p.m. | 5:00 p.m. |
How do I obtain tickets for the ceremony?
Graduates can receive up to three (3) commencement tickets and can pick them up at GradFest on Wednesday, December 3, 2025. If you are unable to attend the GradFest, you may pick up tickets Mondays – Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Office of College Life in Elizabeth or Cranford after the GradFest date.
The ceremony will be streamed live at https://livestream.com/UCC–TV and recorded for those who are unable to attend
How can I request additional tickets?
For additional tickets for the 2:30PM ceremony please complete the form at https://forms.office.com/r/Ci9qGtnkgB .
For additional tickets for the 6PM ceremony please complete the form at https://forms.office.com/r/YZ0ZLStbLv
If there are any additional tickets available, we will contact you on or after January 2, 2026. Please complete the form only once.
What if someone attending requires disability accommodations?
Ushers will be available at the ceremony to assist with any accommodations.
Will there be a commencement rehearsal?
Yes, a rehearsal will be held at the Union County Performing Arts Center on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. We strongly recommend all students to attend the rehearsal ceremony.
Where should I park?
Parking is available at the Rahway Parking Garage, and street parking.
Rahway Parking Garage 67 Lewis St.
Rahway, NJ 07065
What will happen if my guests show up without a ticket?
Due to capacity restrictions, all guests must have a ticket in order to enter the Union County Performing Arts Center, including children ages 2 and older.
What should I wear to the Ceremony?
Graduates should wear business casual attire under their gown.
Why should I attend Commencement?
Commencement is a graduation ceremony to celebrate this memorable moment of your success. We urge all to attend, however if it is not possible, your diploma will be mailed to your address on file.
What do I need to bring to the ceremony?
Students must arrive with their cap, gown, and tassel as well as any academic/participation stoles or chords you have been awarded.
Will I have an opportunity to obtain a professional photograph as I walk on stage?
Yes. Once commencement is over, the photographer will send you information to the email address provided on the Name Card included in this packet. The email will include information on how to view photo proofs and place orders. Graduates and guests are invited to take pictures with our President, Dr. Margaret McMenamin, after the Ceremony. These photos will be immediately available at no cost.
When will I receive my diploma?
Your diploma will be mailed ten weeks after commencement to the address on file as long as you do not have any outstanding financial obligations and all graduation requirements have been met.
Are strollers allowed in the theater?
Due to space restrictions strollers will not be permitted in the theater. Please leave strollers in your vehicles.
Can I bring flowers into the theater?
Yes. Flowers are permitted in the theater.
Can I walk in the commencement line with a bag?
Graduates are encouraged to bring very limited or no personal items into the area. If you must carry a purse/tote, please carry one of compact size that can be worn under your gown. You will not be allowed to walk across the stage holding anything in your hands, please make sure your phone fits in your pocket. Staff will not be responsible for any personal belongings left at the check-in location.
Where can I meet my family and guests after the Ceremony?
At the conclusion of the ceremony, graduates will recess out of the theater and can meet their guests outside. All guests will be required to remain in their seats during the recession of the graduates.
What if there is inclement weather?
In case of inclement weather, please check UCNJ’s website for information on closures or delays. In the event of a cancellation, the commencement ceremony will be held on Thursday, January 22, 2026.
Who can I speak to if I have additional questions?
Questions about eligibility to graduate should be referred to Deadra Holman at holman@ucc.edu. Questions about the ceremony should be sent to commencement@ucc.edu.