Commencement FAQ
Q. When will the 2025 commencement be held?
This year’s Graduate and Undergraduate Commencement will take place at the Prudential Center (25 Lafayette St, Newark, NJ 07102), on Tuesday, May 13, at 8 a.m.
Q. How do I make accommodations for a guest with a disability?
Prudential Center guests can contact Guest Services at the Prudential Center at guestservices@prucenter.com using the Subject Line: Kean University Commencement ADA Accommodations or call (973) 757-6000.
Q. Do graduates need tickets?
No, graduates do not need tickets, however, all guests do need a ticket. After the graduate confirms their registration, they will be emailed e-tickets for their guests to enter the venue. The tickets will be scanned by printing a physical copy of the ticket or using a mobile device.
Q. How long is the commencement ceremony?
Commencement will last approximately three hours.
Q. Can my friends and family watch it online?
Yes, a livestream will be available on Kean.edu the day of Commencement. All in-person guests need a ticket.
Q. When should I arrive? What should I wear?
Please arrive at the venue, wearing your Kean University regalia (cap & gown) over your clothes, one hour before the ceremony. Please note that traffic may be heavy going into Newark, so we suggest you arrive early to have ample time to find parking and line up for the procession.
Q. How do I order and get my cap and gown?
All graduates participating in the commencement ceremony are required to wear Kean University regalia (cap and gown) and will not be allowed to participate or enter Prudential Center without the Kean University regalia.
The final deadline to apply to graduate and participate in the commencement ceremony was Saturday, April 19, 2025.
If you have questions regarding your commencement ceremony status, please contact the Office of the Registrar by email, graduation@kean.edu.
Cap & Gown Orders Status:
- Orders made by Tuesday, March 25, 2025, will be available for pick up at the Kean Ocean Grad Fair on Tuesday, April 29, 2025.
- Orders made by Friday, March 28, 2025, will be available for pick up at the Union (main campus) Grad Fair on Thursday, May 1, 2025.
- Orders made online by Sunday, April 13, 2025, will be shipped to your home address provided.
All honor cords are distributed by the individual schools and colleges, please contact them directly for updates.
Q. Will I be handed a diploma cover?
Graduates will receive their diploma cover at commencement.
Q. Can I bring a bag?
Select the relevant link below to view the bag policy for your venue:
Q. Can I leave after my name is called?
Graduates and their guests are asked to remain for the duration of the ceremony. Ushers will dismiss everyone in an orderly fashion.
Q. What if I have further questions?
If you have any further questions, email commencement@kean.edu. For more information, visit the Commencement website.