F.A.Q.'s

1. When is cap and gown distribution?   
Tuesday and Wednesday, May 14 and 15, 2013
10am - 7pm at The Court (731 S. Plymouth Court).

2. When and where can I pick up my diploma?
At your commencement ceremony, you will only receive the diploma cover. After commencement, diplomas may be picked up on the appropriate date listed below in the Office of Degree Evaluation, 623 S. Wabash, 3^rd floor, room 316:

• Fall 2012 graduates may pick up their diplomas on or after March 18, 2013
• Spring 2013 graduates may pick up their diplomas on or after August 19, 2013
• Summer 2013 graduates may pick up their diplomas on or after November 4, 2013

You are technically required to pick up your diploma, however you may request to have it mailed for a $7.00 fee. Diplomas will only be issued once academic and financial obligations have been satisfied.  Please contact The Office of Degree Evaluation at 312.369.7923.

4. Are there tickets for commencement?
Yes! Each graduate may receive up to 6 tickets for their specific commencement ceremony, reserve your tickets through the ticket reservation system. You will be notified of dates and times via your loop email. You will need to bring your student I.D. and sign for your tickets in order to claim them. Tickets cannot be mailed, and there is no will call. You may send a representative to pick up your tickets for you. Please print and complete the proxy pick up form and have your representative bring the form to Ticket Distribution.

Please note the Chicago Theatre’s policy is that all children who have reached their second birthday require a ticket to gain admittance.

5. How long is each ceremony?
Each ceremony will last approximately 2 hours.

6. What parking lots are nearby?  How much does parking cost?
There are a number of parking garages surrounding the theatre, with the Randolph Wabash Self-Park being the closest, located just around the corner from the entrance to The Chicago Theatre. For parking information, please call 312.986.6863. Prices range anywhere between $30.00 to $40.00 and sometimes more depending on how long you use the parking garage and which parking garage you choose. 

7. What public transportation is available to the Chicago Theatre?
The Chicago Theatre is easily accessible via CTA busses and “L” trains. 

8. How do I get fitted for my cap and gown?
Your gown is ordered based on the height and weight that you provide on the graduation application.

9. How do I opt in or out of walking in the ceremony?
Students opt in for the ceremony when they apply for graduation and give their height/hat sizes. There is no opting out procedure.  Students just don't show up!

10. How can I arrange for special assistance for myself or one of my guests?
If you are a guest with special needs, the ushers at the Chicago Theatre will be ready and waiting to assist you to sit comfortably with your party. If you are a graduating student and have special needs or require any type of assistance at the venue during the Commencement Ceremony, please contact Marvin Cohen at mcohen@colum.edu.

11. How can I stay connected after I graduate?
Join the alumni network!

14. Does Columbia recommend any specific hotels for visiting family and friends?
Yes! The following hotels are special partners.