Attending the Ceremony In Person

Health and Safety Protocols

In order to attend the Commencement ceremony, all in-person attendees ages 5+ must show either:

  • proof of full vaccination, or
  • evidence of a negative COVID-19 molecular (PCR)  or antigen test result  (see time constraints below), as well as
  • a government issued ID.

Full Vaccination
Full vaccination status is defined as having completed the COVID-19 vaccination series at least 14 days prior to the date of the event.

Federal Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved, and emergency use authorized, vaccinations are currently available for individuals aged 5 and older.

In addition to FDA vaccinations, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also considers World Health Organization (WHO) authorized vaccinations when applying public health guidelines for fully vaccinated individuals.

Fully vaccinated individuals may present proof of full vaccination status through paper form or digital application, including the New York State Excelsior App.

Negative Tests

Unvaccinated or partially vaccinated individuals aged 5 and older may present proof of recent negative diagnostic test result for COVID-19 using an FDA or Department of Health (DOH) authorized polymerase chain reaction (PCR) or other nucleic acid amplification test (NAATs) of comparable analytical sensitivity that was performed on a specimen (e.g., swab) collected within 72 hours of the event – or – an FDA authorized antigen test performed on a specimen collected within 6 hours of the event. 

FDA-approved home rapid tests are considered to be proof in this instance.

Children Under 5

Children under the age of 5 may accompany a parent, guardian, or other supervising adult who has provided either proof of full vaccination status or recent negative test result.

Masks

Wearing of masks is strongly encouraged, regardless of vaccination status. Extra masks will be available on site.

These protocols are current as of May 15, 2022. We are monitoring the ongoing COVID levels in the New York City area. We will continue to follow the guidelines of CUNY, New York City, State, and public health officials, and may add to these protocols as the situation changes. 

 

Arrival Time

Gates will open at 9:30 am for graduates and guests. Graduates should be on site between 9:30-10:00 am in order to find their designated major, receive their name reader card, and meet their fellow graduates, before lining up for the processional.

 

Bag Checks

All attendees, including graduates, will be subject to bag checks in order to enter Arthur Ashe stadium. Please minimize what you bring with you, in order to facilitate a fast, easy entrance for everyone.

 

Seating

Graduates will be seated in designated areas based on their degree type and major.

Guests will be seated in the upper levels, and may choose their seats based on where they feel most comfortable. There will be room for people to sit with distance between them if they choose.