Two students in cap and gown holding a stuffed animal tiger

Commencement Events

April 9, 2026 - Commencement Kickoff

Let the countdown to Commencement begin! Commencement Kickoff showcases the first day for which graduates (Bachelor’s, Master’s and Advanced Certificates) can pick up their guest tickets and purchase caps, gowns and accessories in the bookstore.

Electronic Ticket Distribution

Starting April 9th at 10:00 am, tickets will be available for electronic reservation for all three ceremonies. Eligible students will receive an Electronic Ticketing email with instructions to reserve up to five tickets. Please note that the redemption code is your Banner ID. Questions, contact the commence@buffalostate.edu. 

Kickoff Fun

  • Selfie stations will be available so graduates can take pictures with their friends and celebrate their achievements.
  • Representatives from Alumni Affairs, Career and Professional Education Center, Graduate Studies and Academic Affairs offices will answer questions and provide information at the resource tables.

Can't Make It?

Candidates may receive guest tickets, and purchase their caps, gowns, hoods, stoles, and cords in the bookstore until Friday, May 15, during regular store hours. Bring photo I.D. to register and receive guest tickets.

May 14 - Class of 2026 Senior Send Off

Thursday, May 14, 2026, from 7:00-9:00 p.m.

at the Jacqueline Vito LoRusso Alumni & Visitor Center (between STAC and Campus Walk)

It's time to celebrate your achievements and bid farewell to your time at Buffalo State University! Join us for a Senior Send-Off party hosted by the Alumni Association! Celebrate with an evening full of fun, featuring music from a live DJ, and a photo booth. 

Free food will be served and make sure to grab your glass of champagne in your souvenir flute for the Class of 2026 senior toast. Any student who wants a drink must be at least 21 years old and present a valid state-issued photo ID. No school IDs or picture of IDs will be accepted!

The first 300 graduating students to check-in to Senior Send-Off will receive an EXCLUSIVE Class of 2026 Senior Send-Off t-shirt. You will have the opportunity to vote on which design is printed! 

 Voting for this t-shirt will begin in April 2026 at Commencement Kick-Off!

 Don't miss out on this amazing chance to celebrate with your fellow graduates!

 Register  for this event through Bengal Connect

May 16 - 154th Commencement

Ceremonies by Academic Schools and Degree/Certificate. 

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 Certificate Candidates from the School of Education and Applied Professions and School of Arts and Sciences