Has a formal decision been made regarding Commencement for the Class of 2021?

Yes, President Salovey announced that the university will celebrate all graduates in May through in-person gatherings if public health conditions permit. You can read his full message here.

What are the plans for Commencement 2021?

We will celebrate our graduates in May through in-person gatherings if public health conditions permit. Families and guests may not attend in person are invited to participate virtually. This website will be updated with information as plans develop.

Can graduating students who are not in residence come to New Haven?

Yes, students graduating in 2021 who are not currently in residence can attend their Commencement ceremony provided that they comply with strict university health and safety protocols. Plans will be announced shortly.

Can families and guests come to campus?

Families and guests will not be able to join us on campus but are invited to participate virtually. This website will be updated with information about how we will celebrate our graduates and how families and guests can be involved.

If I have received my vaccination, can I come to campus?

No. Because some students and staff on campus will not have been vaccinated and/or fully protected by mid-May, we cannot welcome any guests to campus, even those who have been vaccinated. Our guests come from all over the country and the world. Until we can be confident that we have reached herd immunity through exposure and vaccination , it would not be fair for some students to be allowed guests when others are not.

What should families and guests do about previously booked travel and accommodations?

If you have made a reservation at a local hotel, please contact the hotel directly and indicate that Yale has cancelled Commencement Weekend in May. Please contact the Commencement Office for a written notice of cancellation if such documentation is required to cancel your reservations or travel.

How will graduates receive their diplomas?

The 2021 conferral date for all earned degrees is June 4, 2021. Diplomas will be mailed or distributed to graduates after that date.