Accessing your Stage Pass, when to arrive, where to park, what to eat, and so much more. You've got questions and we've got answers. Get ready to walk, grads.
We know there are a lot of questions about accessing your Stage Pass and transferring your tickets to your guests. We’ve created a special FAQ section with detailed instructions and information to help you get the info you need. We are still distributing tickets—if you registered late, keep checking your Tassel account.
We’re splitting up Commencement into TWO days this year, so please carefully note the day and time of your ceremony. You only need to attend one day. Graduating students should plan to arrive one hour before their scheduled ceremony start time. Graduates and guests with ADA needs should plan to arrive 1.5–2 hours prior to their ceremony start time. Most undergraduate students and families choose to attend both the Main Ceremony and their smaller school/college ceremony.
We’re splitting up Commencement into TWO days this year, so please carefully note the day and time of your ceremony. You only need to attend one day. Graduating students should plan to arrive one hour before their scheduled ceremony start time. Graduates and guests with ADA needs should plan to arrive 1.5–2 hours prior to their ceremony start time. Most undergraduate students and families choose to attend both the Main Ceremony and their smaller school/college ceremony.
Wednesday, May 20, 2026: Undergraduate Day*
*Sands College of Performing Arts graduate students are invited to join Commencement on this day
Thursday, May 21, 2026: Graduate Day
When arriving at the venue, all guests must show either a printed ticket or present their ticket on a mobile device for entry into the USTA complex at the Main Entrance at the East Gate.
Graduates won’t get their Stage Pass scanned at the East Gate, but they must check in in the East Plaza, showing either their printed Stage Pass or presenting it on their mobile device.
Be sure to access your Stage Pass and guest tickets via in advance to print or screenshot to show on a mobile device. We recommend forwarding guest tickets to your guests for them to print or screenshot to show on a mobile device of their own. For more information about accessing your Stage Pass and/or guest tickets, visit our special FAQ section.
If you or your guest(s) do not have a mobile device or printed ticket, you will still be able to enter. Speak to 91ÊÓƵ staff upon arrival.
Dress to the nines and make sure to bring your cap, gown, and hood! If you're feeling extra flashy, wear your graduation regalia to the venue. No idea how to put it on? We got you. 91ÊÓƵ staff will be onsite to help grads robe up. As a reminder: All graduates must wear academic regalia to participate in the main ceremony and school ceremonies.
Real talk: The venue is BIG. You’ll be doing a lot of walking (about three miles), so consider comfy shoes or at least a pair to change into.
Subway: The 7 train provides service from Grand Central Terminal to Mets-Willets Point Station, including connections for all Metro-North Trains from Westchester and Connecticut. Service is also available from the Port Authority Bus Terminal.
Long Island Railroad: LIRR provides easy service to Mets-Willets Point Station from Woodside, and convenient connections from Penn Station for New Jersey Transit customers. For guests with disabilities, get off the LIRR train at 61st Street-Woodside Station and transfer to the 7 train. Take the 7 train to Mets-Willets Point Station.
New Jersey Transit: Travelers from New Jersey will need to transfer in New York City to get to the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center. Take NJ Transit to New York Penn Station and transfer to either the Long Island Rail Road (see directions above) or the subway (see directions above).
, located next to the USTA complex. USTA recommends using Grand Central Parkway exit 9E or Whitestone Expressway Exit 13D for the shortest route to available parking lots.
Upon arrival, lot attendants will direct you to the appropriate area.
There is a charge for parking and cash is not accepted.
Some of our grads and their guests may have questions regarding ADA and accessibility. We’ve created a special FAQ section with detailed instructions and information to help you get the info you need.
for details on the venue’s policies on bags and outside food. (Note: There will not be bag storage facilities at the venue or outside of the entrances.)
Photos and video are permitted and there will be several celebratory backdrops set up throughout the USTA campus.
Food will be available for purchase in the USTA Food Village starting at 11:00 a.m.
Graduate gifts and flowers will be available for purchase at USTA on the day of Commencement. Official 91ÊÓƵ branded merchandise is available through Campus Spirit stores.
Commencement takes place rain or shine. Louis Armstrong stadium will be covered in the event of inclement weather, so grads and their guests can stay dry. Check the weather closer to the event date and bring an umbrella in case of rain.
Still don't have the info you need? Visit the Commencement website or full FAQ page.
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