Get Ready for Commencement 2025
Congratulations on reaching this incredible milestone! St. Louis Community College is thrilled to honor your hard work and dedication at the upcoming commencement ceremony.
- Date: Sunday, May 18, 2025
- Time: 7:00 p.m.
- Location: Chaifetz Arena, Saint Louis University
RSVP by March 1st
To attend the ceremony, you must RSVP by March 1, 2025.
If you missed the deadline, contact commencement@stlcc.edu. Late RSVPs may not be included in the printed program.
Get a sneak peak at what's in store for you at the commencement ceremony:
Graduation Requirements
What is the difference between graduation and commencement?
- Graduation: Completing all degree requirements and receiving your degree.
- Commencement: The celebration ceremony where graduates wear caps and gowns.
Who can participate in commencement?
You can participate in the commencement ceremony if you:
- Graduated in summer 2024 or fall 2024.
- Are eligible to graduate in spring 2025.
- Plan to graduate in summer 2025 with fewer than six credit hours to finish during the summer session.
For more information on graduation requirements, check the graduation guidelines.
Preparing for Commencement
As commencement approaches, here's what you need to know to make the most of this milestone moment.
Purchase Your Cap and Gown
Your cap and gown can be purchased online or in person from any campus store for $23. Phi Theta Kappa stoles and printed announcements are also available for an additional cost.
We recommend purchasing your cap and gown as soon as possible and trying them on right away to ensure a proper fit.
Join the Cap Contest
Decorate your graduation cap to showcase your creativity and join our grad cap contest for a chance to win a prize!
To enter, share a photo of your decorated cap with #STLCCGradCapContest on Instagram or Facebook, or email it to social@stlcc.edu. All entries must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. on commencement day.
Accommodations
If you have accommodation needs, please contact FVAccess@stlcc.edu or 314-513-4551 at least two working days prior to the event date.
Day of Commencement
The big day has arrived, and it’s time to honor your achievements surrounded by family, friends and fellow graduates.
Important Details
- Tickets: No tickets are required for commencement, so feel free to invite as many guests as you like.
- What to Wear: Be sure to wear your regalia to the ceremony.
- Rehearsal: Don't worry about attending a rehearsal — you will receive instructions when you arrive at the warm-up area.
- Personal Items: You are responsible for any personal items you bring into the student waiting area and arena, as there will be no secure storage available.
- Where to Go: When you arrive at Chaifetz Arena, you'll find signage posted to direct you to the graduate warm-up room. After the ceremony, graduates will meet their guests outside the main gates.
- Venue Policies: Chaifetz Arena has a clear bag policy and is a cashless venue. Please review Saint Louis University’s Safe Arena Policy to ensure a smooth experience.
Commencement Timeline
The timeline for the commencement ceremony is outlined below.
- 5:30 p.m. Students and faculty may begin to arrive
- 6:00 p.m. Doors open to guests
- 7:00 p.m. Ceremony begins with an expected duration of approximately 90 minutes
Map and Directions to Chaifetz Arena
Visit the Chaifetz Arena website for parking details and directions to help you prepare.
Note: The area around Chaifetz Arena can get busy, so plan ahead, arrive early and give yourself plenty of time.
Share on Social Media
Share your graduation moments with us! Use the hashtag #STLCCGrad on Instagram and Facebook and tag us to show how you're celebrating.