Entry and Tickets

Ticketing

All eligible graduates participating in Mailman School's Class Day are required to register online through Tassel. Following spring break, graduates will receive an automated activation email from Tassel to complete their registration. Once registered, each graduate may request up to six (6) guest tickets.

Additional tickets may become available closer to Class Day, based on the total number of graduates and ticket allocation. Additional tickets cannot be requested in advance. If extra tickets are released, graduates will be notified via email, and these tickets will be available in Tassel on a first-come, first-served basis. 

For information about requesting tickets to University Commencement, please visit the University Commencement website.

Accessibility or Disability Concerns

Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health is committed to providing an accessible and welcoming environment for students and their invited guests, and it encourages individuals with disabilities to participate in its programs and activities. Graduates will have the opportunity to provide any relevant accommodation information for themselves or their guests while completing the ticket request form. Helpful information (particularly around accessible seating) is available on our FAQ.

Entry Information

  • All guests over the age of five must have a ticket for entry to The Armory. 
  • Each guest needs an individual ticket; only ticketed guests will be allowed into the venue.  
  • For an efficient entry process, guests should have their ticket saved/loaded or printed and ready to be scanned at the door when you reach the entrance. Each ticket can only be scanned once, and ticket QR codes cannot be shared with another guest. 
  • Guests with disabilities, limited mobility, or the elderly needing assistance do not need special tickets. Event host staff will have wheelchairs available to help escort guests needing assistance to the designated seating area. 
  • Tickets do not allow for re-entry; no re-entry is allowed to the Armory once a graduate or guest leaves.
  • For the safety of all guests, aisles must be kept clear at all times - please refrain from standing in the aisles once inside.
  • Water is available for guests inside the venue. 
  • Face coverings are not permitted unless required for religious or medical reasons
  • By participating in the University Commencement ceremony and/or your school-specific ceremony, all participants are giving consent to being photographed, filmed, and recorded. Please note that these photos and recordings may be shared publicly or on social media at the discretion of the University, and an archived video will be made available online for viewing after the event.
  • Photo ID is required for guest and graduate entry. Graduates should bring their CUID for entering the Hammer Health Science Center at graduate check-in.
  • Graduates and guests are strongly encouraged to leave ALL bags at home to facilitate a quick and easy entry into the Armory.
    • The Armory does not have a storage area or coat/bag check. Items cannot be left behind by graduates in the Hammer Health Science Center
    • Any items that are brought must meet the requirements below. All items are subject to security screening. If you or a guest are bringing a medical or parenting bag, please be prepared to open the bag for screening at building entry. 
    • Acceptable Items
      • Clear bags 
      • Medical bags and parenting bags (with child present)  
      • Medically needed items, such as mobility equipment 
      • Strollers for infants 
      • Cameras 
      • Flowers 
      • Umbrellas (that can be folded/placed under the seat) 
      • Pre-filled, reusable water bottle 
    • Prohibited Items - Guests that arrive with unacceptable items, including oversized bags, will not be admitted to the Armory. Guests will need to return prohibited items to their vehicles/home, or discard items to enter the Armory. 
      • Obstructive or Disruptive Items
        • Signs, placards, or banners of any kind
        • Flags
        • Balloons or sky lanterns
        • Any item that obstructs views or interferes with amplified sound
        • Noise-making devices, including airhorns and cowbells
        • Any item that may interfere with or distract graduation speakers, graduates, or guests
        • Mortarboards, stoles, or other regalia should not contain language, symbols, or imagery that could violate University policies.
      • Dangerous Items
        • Weapons of any kind, including pepper spray or mace
        • Glass bottles or projectiles
        • Lighters, matches, or flammable materials
        • Sharp objects or laser pointers
        • Any other item deemed dangerous, inappropriate, or in violation of University policies
  • GRADUATES
    • Should not bring any bags, their items must fit in their pockets. Graduates cannot carry bags/items to seats or onstage, as items at seats may create a tripping hazard for other graduates. Graduates should wear comfortable footwear and a fully charged phone (maybe even an external battery). 
    • Must arrive with regalia unzipped, as checks may take place before entry or during lineup.

 

Conduct Disclaimer

Commencement season is a time to celebrate and enjoy the accomplishments of our graduates. To honor the spirit and significance of this occasion, we do not permit the interruption of speakers or audience disruptions. We ask that graduates communicate these expectations to their guests in advance.

All participants and guests attending Commencement season events understand and agree to follow the responsibilities outlined in University policies, including the Rules of University Conduct, Anti-Discrimination and Discriminatory Harassment Policy, and Standards and Discipline. Those found in violation will be asked to discontinue and may be asked to leave the venue.

University Delegates and Public Safety officers will be on site and may intervene if activity arises that may conflict with the provisions of the Rules. Members of the University community are reminded of their obligation to comply with Delegate directives pursuant to Section 443.a(16)-(20). For additional updates regarding these rules, visit the Rules Administrator webpage.