Congratulations, Class of 2026!
St. Louis Community College is thrilled to honor your hard work and dedication at the upcoming commencement ceremony.
- Date: Sunday, May 17, 2026
- Time: 7:00 p.m.
- Location: Chaifetz Arena, Saint Louis University
View the Commencement Program
Day of Commencement
Important Details
- Tickets: No tickets are required for commencement, so feel free to invite as many guests as you like. Suites are available for purchase; reach out to the Chaifetz Arena Box Office at (314) 977-5000 for more details.
- What to Wear: Be sure to wear your regalia to the ceremony.
- Rehearsal: Don't worry about attending a rehearsal — watch the how to commence video and you will also receive instructions when you arrive at the warm-up area.
- Where to Park: Graduates can park for free at the Laclede Garage. Your guests can park in the Olive/Compton Garage for a $10 fee.
- 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.
- 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.
- Diploma Cover: You will receive your diploma cover on stage during the ceremony. Your official diploma will be mailed to you after graduation.
- 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. Concessions will be open for commencement.
Commencement Timeline
The timeline for the commencement ceremony is outlined below.
- 5:30 p.m. Students, faculty and guests may begin to arrive
- 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. The area around Chaifetz Arena can get busy, so plan ahead, arrive early and give yourself plenty of time.
Parking and Entry Information
Free parking is available for students in the Laclede Garage. Graduates should follow the marked path to the VIP doors at Chaifetz Arena. Guests may enter through Gates A, B or C. Gate D will be closed. Faculty entry is through the dock.
Note: Graduates may not be dropped off at the VIP doors in the Fred Weber Parking Lot.
Golf Cart Assistance
For guests who need assistance, golf cart pickup will be available at the Olive/Compton Garage and on Laclede Avenue near Hermann Stadium. Drop-off will be at Gate A of Chaifetz Arena.
For help reading these maps, please contact commencement@stlcc.edu.
Share on Social Media
Share your graduation moments with us on Instagram and Facebook.
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.
Preparing for Commencement
As commencement approaches, here's what you need to know to make the most of this milestone moment:
Please note a change to this year's ceremony:
You will receive your diploma cover on stage during the ceremony instead of at the
end of the event.
Purchase Your Cap and Gown
Your can purchase your cap and gown online or in person from any campus store for $25 plus tax. 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.
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.
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 2025 or fall 2025.
- Are eligible to graduate in spring 2026.
- Plan to graduate in summer 2026 with six credit hours or fewer to finish during the summer session.
For more information on graduation requirements, check the graduation guidelines.
Get a sneak peak at what's in store for you at the commencement ceremony:
RSVP for Commencement
Responses received after March 1 will not be included in the commencement program. However, students may still RSVP to attend the ceremony. Contact commencement@stlcc.edu if you have questions.