When you apply to graduate, this does not automatically register you for Commencement. For more information, visit the Registrar's Office website.

May 2026 graduates who have completed a degree application will receive an email with instructions on how to register for Commencement from Tassel on or before early April 2026.

Students who graduated in August or December 2025 who did not receive an email from Tassel should update their email address online.

All graduates need to confirm their Commencement plans by Sunday, April 19th, 2026 11:59pm.

You can order your cap and gown from the Josten's website. 

If you wish to participate in the early May pickup event, order online no later than Friday, March 27, 2026.
If you want the regalia shipped to you, order online no later than Thursday April 9, 2026. 

For additional questions, reach out to: RPI@bkstr.com

Bachelor degree students graduating Summa Cum Laude, Magna Cum Laude, and Cum Laude will receive honors cords at Commencement. These cords can be picked up at the Registrar's Office in Academy Hall on Thursday, May 14, and Friday, May 15. They will also be available on commencement morning at graduate check-in on Harkness Field. The cords will be distinguished by three colors: Gold (Summa Cum Laude), Silver (Magna Cum Laude), and Bronze (Cum Laude).

You can order your rental cap and gown from the RPI Collegiate Store. The rental fee is $129.00.

Degree candidates that will be participating in the May 2026 Hooding and Commencement ceremonies should place their rental order by Friday, March 20, 2026 to ensure that they will have regalia. 

Once the order is received, it will be processed and payment will be confirmed. The rental regalia sets will be available for pickup during the week of Commencement. Candidates who requested to have their order shipped will receive them during the first week of May.

Please read the website listing carefully and completely. Degree candidates will need to provide their major (Enter Your Degree) to ensure their regalia set has the correct patch color. Candidates will also need to measure their head accurately to provide their cap size as well. The Beefeater tam is a fixed brim and there is no elasticity to the cap. Exact measurement is essential.  

For additional questions, reach out to: RPI@bkstr.com

Sunday, May 10th - Off Campus Trips 

Monday, May 11th - Presidential Block Party 

Tuesday, May 12th - Commencement Rehearsal and Zero Year Reunion

Wednesday, May 13th - 

Thursday, May 14th - School Dinners and Award Ceremonies

Saturday, May 16th - Commencement!!

A rehearsal for the Commencement ceremony will take place at ECAV on Tuesday, May 12, 2026 beginning at 11 a.m. Stay tuned for additional details.

Information will be released soon.

• On Commencement day, graduates should arrive at the East Campus Athletic Village lobby at 7 a.m. for check-in. There will be signs and volunteers at the line-up area to direct students.
• For Commencement activities and the President’s Picnic, please wear comfortable, flat shoes and avoid high heels, as the event will take place on uneven surfaces, including turf and grass. 
• No backpacks or large bags are allowed at Commencement.
• Only service animals specifically trained to assist a person with a disability are permitted on campus during Commencement. For the safety of your pet and all guests, please leave your pet at home.
• It is important to stay for the entire ceremony to show respect and avoid disruption for other graduates and their families. Graduates are not permitted to leave the ceremony early.