Commencement 2026

SUNY Buffalo State University's 154th Commencement will take place on Saturday, May 16, 2026, in the Sports Arena.

Livestreaming Available 

three students seated at commencement ceremony

For Students

Congratulations! Learn everything you need to know about obtaining your tickets, caps and gowns, and more for Commencement Day.

Information for Students Commencement Policies Graduates Prepare Regalia Information Events
Graduate with their family celebrating their accomplishment

For Families

Warmest wishes and congratulations to the Class of 2025! We look forward to celebrating and recognizing the extraordinary accomplishments of our graduates with you.

Information for Families
Faculty members lining up for commencement processional

For Faculty and Staff

Faculty and staff are invited and encouraged to celebrate the Graduating Class of 2025 by marching or volunteering on Commencement Day.

Information for Faculty and Staff Marchers Registration Form Volunteers Registration Form Submit Student Awards

Ceremonies

To Graduates:

Please let your family, friends, and guests who are unable to attend Saturday's Commencement at Buffalo State University know that a livestream of the Commencement ceremonies can be viewed here.

When the Commencement ceremonies begin at 9:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m., a new livestream will be made available.

You can also check back the next week to access a full recording of each ceremony.

9:00 a.m.

School of Education and Applied Professions Ceremony

Bachelor's Degree Candidates

1:00 p.m.

School of Arts and Sciences including Individualized Studies Ceremony

Bachelor’s Degree Candidates

5:00 p.m.

Master's and Advanced Graduate Certificates Ceremony

Master’s and Advanced Graduate Certificates from the School of Education and Applied Professions and School of Arts and Sciences

Helpful Contacts

Registrar's Office

Website: Registrar's Office
Phone: (716) 878-4811

  • Graduation preparation (Bachelor's and Master's)
  • Graduation application status
  • Degree Works
  • Diploma status

Academic Affairs Office

Website: Academic Affairs Office
Phone: (716) 878-5550

  • Commencement Invitation Letters
  • Early Commencement Ceremony Participation 
  • Student Awards
  • Honors Status
  • Commencement Committee 
  • Commencement Policies

Events Management Office

Website: Events Management Office
Phone: (716) 878-6114

  • Ceremony format, logistics, accessibility, and hearing/interpretive assistance.
  • Commencement Code of Responsibility
  • Requests for large-print programs (request within one week prior to the ceremony).
  • Ticket information