Frequently Asked Graduation Questions

• How do I get my cap and gown for Graduation?
  Caps and Gowns will be distributed in the SNHU Bookstore at the end of March though May 13th. Stop in during normal business hours with the following information: Student ID, Degree, Height and Weight and we will be glad to provide you with your regalia. NOT able to make into the bookstore, you can email all the information to 0568mgr@fheg.follett.com or call us @ 603-645-9618 and we will be glad to ship your commencement package to you! If you have any questions about Caps & Gowns please do not hesitate to contact us!
  
• Do I really need a cap and gown to participate in Graduation?
  Yes.  To participate in the ceremony all ceremony participants are required to wear a cap and gown.
  
• Are children required to have a ticket to attend the ceremony?
  Generally, children under 3 years old are not required to have a ticket, unless they are going to use a seat.
  
• How do I get tickets?
  Tickets will be available for pick-up online at SNHU Tickets.  You will need to use your SNHU single sign-on username and password to pick-up your tickets.  More details can be found at the Graduation Ticket page.
  
• Is there special seating for those with disabilities?
  Yes. Please contact Hyla Jaffe, Coordinator of Disability Services, at 603.668.2211, ext.2386. for assistance.
  
• How do I get my Gold Key or Honors Chord?
  Gold Keys and Honors Chords will be distributed at the Academic Honors Program that is being held on Friday, May 14, 2010.  Details will be mailed to participants in April.

The Day of Commencement:

• Where should graduating students go and when should they get there?
  Students should enter by the side doors (Cedar/Auburn Street). If they happen to enter by the front doors, they should make their way to the backstage part of the arena to prepare for the ceremony. They should plan on arriving 60 minutes before the start of the commencement ceremony.
  
• How are the students lined up?
  Students process into the arena by school of study. Example: All School of Business students will be organized by Master’s level degree, then Bachelors level, then Associate level. Within those categories, students are asked to line up alphabetically, however, they may choose to sit with their friends regardless of their last name.
  
• What time do the doors open for general admission/guests?
  Doors will open no later than 10 a.m. on the morning of commencement.  It is open seating.
  
• Are there any elevators?
  Yes. Elevators are located to the right of the front lobby.
  
• How long is the ceremony?
  Typically, the ceremony will last approximately 2 ½ to 3 hours. Concession stands are open with refreshments.
  
• Can I leave the ceremony early?
  All participants are expected to be at the ceremony for its duration.
  
• Is there a professional photographer?
  Yes. The photographer will take two photos of each student (as they approach and cross the stage). Each student will be given order information as they return to their seat.
  
• May I approach the stage to take a picture?
  No. For traffic flow and safety purposes, the walkways need to stay clear.  However, families may wish to sit towards the front of the arena for best picture taking opportunities.

After Commencement:

• Is there a reception after the ceremony?
  Yes. The reception immediately following the ceremony will be held at Veteran's Park, a half a block from the Arena. In case of inclement weather, it will be held on campus in the small gym. SNHU welcomes everyone to stop by for light refreshments.
  
• Can I stay in the arena to take pictures after the ceremony?
  Yes. However, the Verizon Arena staff may need to clear the arena for another event, so please do so quickly. There will be ample opportunity to take pictures at the reception.
  
• What should I do if I get separated from my graduation party?
  It happens. Attendees may wish to decide, in advance, where their group will meet after commencement.
  
• Can I purchase a DVD of today’s ceremony?
  Yes. The SNHU Audio Visual studio is pleased to offer a professional quality DVD of today’s ceremony. Order forms are available at the Follett Bookstore table in the front lobby. The price is $20 plus $2.50 for shipping and handling.
  
• When will I get my diploma?
  Diplomas are not distributed at the Commencement Ceremony.  As long as you have completed all of your classes, are in good standing academically, you have settled your billing, and have completed Financial Aid exit counseling, your diploma will be mailed 2-3 weeks after the ceremony to the address provided on your Petition to Graduate