Due to the rapidly evolving COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on us as a university, Commencement ceremonies will no longer be taking place in its traditional manner. For more information, please refer to commencement.columbia.edu/announcements for the most current updates. The University Commencement ceremony of the 266th academic year will take place outdoors on the Morningside campus, rain or shine. It is a centuries-old tradition in which the President of Columbia University grants degrees en masse to graduating students from eighteen schools, colleges, and affiliated institutions. All eligible May 2020 degree candidates, and February 2020 and October 2019 graduates, from all schools and colleges affiliated with Columbia University are encouraged to attend. 8:00 a.m. Graduating students begin assembling with their school at their designated location on upper campus, utilizing the Earl Hall Gate, Chapel Gate, Wien Courtyard Gate or 120th Street Entrance to enter campus. 8:00 a.m. – 8:45 a.m. Graduating students can participate in optional GradImages photo booth stations located throughout designated upper campus line-up areas. Early arrival is encouraged for participation. 8:30 a.m. Gates open for general admission. 9:00 a.m. Candidate Procession begins. 10:30 a.m. University Commencement ceremony begins. 12:15 p.m. University Commencement concludes.