Announcement

2025 University Commencement Week: Important Campus Operations and Access Information

May 16, 2025

As we prepare to celebrate our graduates, please review these important details about campus operations and access during this special time.

Campus Preparations and Activity

In preparation for the graduation ceremonies and celebratory receptions, the University's public safety, facilities, catering, and AV teams, along with external vendors, will be actively working across campus. You can expect higher than usual activity and noise levels and increased foot traffic from graduates' families and guests.

Restrictions to the Guest Registration Portal (May 17-21)

Student Guest and Alumni Access

  • Students will not be able to have guests access the Morningside campus beginning Saturday, May 17 at 12:00 p.m. through Wednesday, May 21 and alumni will not be able to access campus during this same time period
  • The guest registration portal will be suspended for students and alumni during this period, and all previously issued QR codes for student guests will no longer work for campus entry during this time
  • Commencement and Class Day guests should use their event-specific ticket to enter campus

Faculty and Staff Guests

  • No changes to guest registration policies for faculty and staff guests during this period
  • On Commencement Day (May 21), faculty and staff may have guests access campus after 12:30 p.m.

Regular campus access for student guests and alumni will resume Thursday, May 22 through the guest registration portal.

Commencement Day (May 21) - Enhanced Security Measures

Campus Access Points

  • Starting at 6:00 a.m., there will be no pedestrian crossover along College Walk between upper and lower campuses
  • Staff should use the following entry points only:
    • For offices in upper campus: Earl Gate on 117th and Broadway
    • For offices in lower campus: Taint Gate at 115th and Amsterdam

Important Reminders

  • Deliveries cannot be made to campus from 6:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
  • Columbia University ID is required to enter campus
    • If you do not have a University ID, bring a photo ID and a letter from your school on University stationery
  • Large bags are not permitted and all bags may be subject to search
  • Faculty and staff may request guest access beginning at 12:30 p.m. on Commencement Day

Event Attendance

If you have guests attending Commencement or your school's Class Day ceremony, please ensure they have their event-specific tickets ready for campus entry. These special events require separate ticketing from the standard guest access system.

Congratulations to the Class of 2025! We look forward to celebrating your achievements.

Columbia University Public Safety