We are excited to celebrate with you in May for the 2026 Siena Commencement! At Siena, we have one ceremony each year, celebrating our August, January, and May graduates. Depending on the degree you are completing, you will attend one of two ceremonies:
This website is being updated with important dates for the Class of 2026. Please check back here for updates.
Prospective graduates must fill out a degree application.
August 2025 Graduates:
You must fill out a degree application by August 18.
January 2026 Graduates:
You must fill out a degree application by November 12.
May 2026 Graduates:
You must fill out a degree application by November 12.
There are several steps you need to complete before Commencement. Be sure to use our checklist to make sure you are on track!
Be sure to check out our Commencement Weekend events schedule
Prospective graduates who will not complete all degree requirements prior to Commencement can still participate in the ceremony. Be sure to check the Commencement Participation Policy and complete the Commencement Participation Application by February 20, 2026.
Please refer to the MVP Arena's policies for information about what can be brought into the arena.
The MVP Arena (formerly Times Union Center) manages a parking garage -- easily accessible via Market St. -- behind and attached to the arena. The garage has a clearance of 6'6". Daily parking rate is $8.
Street parking is typically available on nights and weekends. MVP Arena has no control over the prices charged on the street or at unaffiliated parking garages. Those prices are set by the independent companies that manage the garages.
If you feel that there may be difficulty in pronouncing your name, a voice mailbox has been set up for you to record your name the way you would like it announced at commencement. Please call 518-782-6874 by April 10 and record the following:
1. The spelling of your last name
2. Your student ID number
3. Say your full name the way you would like it pronounced
Regalia must be purchased by the graduate. Undergraduate regalia can be purchased through the Siena Bookstore or online. Master's regalia can be purchased in the bookstore or online.
Regalia will be available for purchase starting in the first week of March. Be sure to purchase before April 10 to avoid paying late fees.
2026 Pricing:
Bachelors Set: $92.50+tax (includes cap, gown, hood, tassel)
Items can also be purchased a la carte - Cap: $8.00, Gown: $33.00, Hood: $35.00, Tassel: $16.50
Master's Set: $99.50+tax (includes cap, gown, hood, tassel)
Items can also be purchased a la carte - Cap: $8.00, Gown: $37.00, Hood: $38.00, Tassel: $16.50
Below is a list of hotels and restaurants in close proximity to Siena.
Seniors have the opportunity to take their senior portrait! The photo selected will be submitted to the yearbook to be printed for you and your loved ones to enjoy. Students will have the opportunity to purchase any photos they like through Legacy Studios. Check your email for sign up times.
To help ensure that the procession of graduates moves to and from the stage in an orderly fashion and to comply with safety codes, NO personal photography will be allowed near the stage or on the arena floor. Please be considerate of other guests in your seating areas for "long-range" attempts at personal photography.
A professional photographer will take pictures of the individual graduates. The photos will be made available to you and your guests to order and purchase. The photography firm will contact you directly by mail at your permanent home address.
Senior Week is Sunday, May 10 through Saturday, May 16, 2026. Seniors will have the opportunity to participate in a variety of activities leading up to Commencement!
Now that you are a Siena University Graduate, you may want to add some new alumni gear to your collection of Green and Gold. Be sure to stop by the Saints Bookstore for apparel, merchandise and gifts during Commencement Weekend.
The Saints bookstore is located in the basement of the Sarazen Student Union. For Commencement Weekend, the Bookstore will be extending its hours on Saturday from 9:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M.