Class Day is a school-specific ceremony during which individual students are recognized for their achievements. As their names are read, graduates process across the stage, are photographed, and receive their class pins. Seating is unlimited and no tickets are required for guests.

Commencement is a ceremony in which all undergraduate and graduate schools of Columbia University participate. No individual students are recognized. At Commencement, President Bollinger officially confers degrees. Seating is limited (tickets required), and each graduating undergraduate student may request up to four guest tickets when registering (online) to attend. For more information, please visit the Commencement website.