Monmouth University’s January 2026 Commencement Ceremony will be held on Tuesday, Jan. 13, 2026 (snow date of Wednesday, Jan. 14), at 1 p.m. in the OceanFirst Bank Center on the Monmouth University campus.
- Is there a fee for Commencement?
- There is no fee to participate in the Commencement Ceremony.
- What time do graduates have to be at the ceremony?
- Graduates are asked to be at the student lineup at least 45 minutes prior to the ceremony (12:15 p.m.). Signs and staff will direct you to this area. The graduate procession will begin at approximately 12:50 p.m.
- What time will the doors open for guests?
- Guests will be permitted to enter the venue approximately 45 minutes before the ceremony begins. Please note that the ceremony will begin promptly at 1 p.m. The graduate procession will begin at approximately 12:50 p.m.
- How many guest tickets do graduates receive?
- Graduates are limited to ten (10) guest tickets each. Graduates do not need a ticket. Seating is general admission
- A link to request up to an additional four (4) tickets is included in the RSVP email that was sent to graduates.
- Do children need tickets?
- If a child is walking, a ticket is needed. Children are not permitted to sit on a lap in lieu of a ticket. Strollers and carriers are not permitted in the OceanFirst Bank Center in accordance with fire safety regulations.
- How do I receive my ten (10) guest tickets?
- Electronic guest tickets will be emailed to the graduates closer to the Commencement date.
- When and where do I pick up my cap and gown?
- Cap and gowns may be picked up in the lobby of the OceanFirst Bank Center on Monday, Dec. 15, between 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. After that, cap and gowns may be picked up in the University Store in the OceanFirst Bank Center beginning on Tuesday, Dec. 16, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Cap and gowns may not be picked up on the weekends.
- Please note: Beginning Tuesday, Dec. 23, 2025, through Friday, Jan. 2, 2026, the University Store will be closed for cap and gown pickup. The University Store will reopen on Monday, Jan. 5. Pick up will resume on Monday, Jan. 5, through Monday, Jan. 12, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. On Tuesday, Jan. 13, the day of Commencement, graduates may pick up in the University Store until 11:30 a.m. After that, they may pick up their cap and gowns at graduate lineup in Boylan Gym.
- When will I receive my diploma?
- Diplomas will be mailed to your address on file by an outside vendor approximately three to four weeks after your graduation date. Diploma cases will be distributed on stage to each graduate. All financial obligations (including fines) to the University must be satisfied prior to diplomas being released.
- Will a photographer be at Commencement?
- Yes. GradImages, a professional photography service, will be at Commencement to photograph students as they are recognized on stage. Your proof will be mailed to your home address and sent via e-mail to your student account.
- You may pre-register your e-mail address on the GradImages website to ensure an accurate address is on file. By pre-registering, you will receive a coupon for 20% off your order of $50 or more.
- Are there any accommodations for disabled guests?
- ADA Seating: Disability seating will be available on a first come basis. Seating is for the person with the disability and one person may sit with them. Disability seating tickets are part of the ten (10) tickets allotted to each graduate. Please request disability seating upon arrival to the OceanFirst Bank Center. Please note that accommodations are limited.
- ADA Parking: will be available but vehicles must have an authorized handicapped parking hang tag or license plate. You may also drop off near the entrance to OceanFirst Bank Center and then park.
- Is there a rehearsal for graduation?
- There is no rehearsal for graduation. Detailed instructions will be emailed to the student’s email.
I hope this information is helpful. If you have any additional questions, please call the Office of Student Life at 732-571-3417.