Student Resources

Commencement 2026

Commencement Ceremony 

We will host our 2026 Commencement Ceremony on Friday, May 1, 2026. The event will begin at 3:30 p.m. and will take place at Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Hall and Museum, 4141 Fifth Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213. 

Event Details 

Students are required to RSVP for the ceremony for themselves by completing the online form which will be emailed to them. Additional details including a detailed timeline will be released in the coming months. We do not require tickets for this event. Guest seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Paid parking is available in the Soldiers and Sailors parking garage

Guests with physical disabilities can enter the building via the ramp and accessible entrance located on the University Place side of the building (west side, or left side if looking from 5th Avenue). Restrooms for visitors with physical disabilities are located on the third level, accessible via two elevators. 

Livestream 

The ceremony will be livestreamed for those unable to attend in person. The recording will also be available on SPIA's YouTube channel following the live event. 

Academic Regalia 

All participating students are required to purchase and wear regalia. The only exception is for graduates in military uniform. Please note, graduates will enter & exit the stage by way of five stairs. Plan footwear accordingly. Regalia can be purchased through the University bookstore here

Additional Resources and Events 

Graduating students can visit the main Pitt events website at www.commencement.pitt.edu for more University-wide commencement resources. Check back for relevant information as it is updated. Please tag us in your shares #SPIA or @pitt_spia - we want to celebrate with you! 

Prepare for Commencement
Eligibility & Diploma Application

Review your eligibility and understand the difference between graduation and commencement.

Hotels & Lodging

Check out this list of properties that offer a University of Pittsburgh discount.

More Ways to Celebrate

School & College celebrations, pop-up photo spots, free celebration graphics, and dining reservations on campus.