Frequently Asked Questions

• Where is Graduate Commencement?

  Graduate Commencement will take place at the PeoplesBank Arena (Formerly XL Center) in Hartford, CT. 

• When is Graduate Commencement?

  Graduate Commencement will be held at 11:00am on Saturday, May 16, 2026. Graduates and Guests should arrive no later than 10:30am, if at all possible.

• What time does Graduation start?

  Hooding and commencement start promptly at 11:00am. The procession of graduates will occur shortly before 11:00am. 

• How long will Commencement last?

  We expect commencement to last approximately 90 minutes.

• Where can I find directions to Commencement?

  Location and directions to the PeoplesBank Arena can be found here.

• Where should I park?

  Please refer to the following link for information on parking at the PeoplesBank Arena. More information will be released over time. 

  Please email graduateadmission@easternct.edu if you require accessible parking.

• Is there a Commencement Speaker?

  Yes. The Commencement honorary speaker will be announced closer to the event date.

• What is appropriate attire for Commencement?

  Commencement is a joyous but dignified occasion. The University's policy is that all graduates participating in the ceremony must wear an approved cap and gown and hood of the correct color. Personal adornments (e.g., leis, stoles, or messages on caps) are not consistent with the spirit of the graduation ceremony. Graduates who appear at the Commencement lineup with unapproved adornment will be asked by student or faculty marshals to remove it. Faculty marshals have the authority to prevent anyone in unapproved adornment from processing.