Albany Technical College Spring Commencement
11:00 a.m. | Friday, May 1, 2026
Albany Civic Center | Flint River Entertainment Complex
100 W. Oglethorpe Blvd., Albany, GA 31701
Q: Is there a graduation rehearsal before the ceremony?
A: No. There is no rehearsal. Volunteers will be available on-site to guide graduates during the processional and when crossing the stage.
Q: Do guests need tickets to attend?
A: No tickets are required. Seating is first-come, first-served.
Q: What is the graduation application fee?
A: The graduation application fee is $65.
Q: Do I have to pay the application fee when I submit my application?
A: No, payment is not required at the time of submission. However, prompt payment is strongly recommended to avoid delays. Diplomas will not be mailed until the fee is paid.
Q: Is graduation regalia required?
A: Yes. All graduates must wear official Albany Technical College regalia (cap and gown) to participate.
Q: What should I wear under my gown?
A: Dark pants or skirts, dress shoes, and a tie (if applicable) are preferred. Comfortable shoes are strongly recommended, as there will be significant walking.
Q: What kind of shoes are appropriate?
A: Graduates must wear black or navy dress shoes. Jeans, tennis shoes, and boots are not permitted.
Q: Can I decorate my cap or gown?
A: No. Cap and gown decorations are not allowed. Sparkles, glitter, or embellishments will disqualify you from participating in the ceremony.
Q: Can I wear cords or stoles from outside organizations?
A: No. Only cords and honor stoles issued by Albany Technical College clubs or organizations are permitted. Unauthorized items may result in removal from the ceremony.
Q: When should graduates arrive?
A: Graduates should arrive by 9:00 a.m. for check-in. Line-up begins at 10:00 a.m., one hour before the ceremony.
Q: Are children allowed to sit in the graduate section or cross the stage?
A: No. Only graduating students may sit in the graduate section and cross the stage. Children and guests are welcome to attend and cheer from the audience.
Q: Are accommodations available for individuals with disabilities?
A: Yes. Accessible seating is available for ADA patrons and one companion or aide on a first-come, first-served basis. Graduates requiring accommodations should contact Mrs. Watts at 229-430-2854 or rwatts@albanytech.edu as soon as possible.
Q: Can I bring a purse or bag?
A: The venue enforces a Clear Bag Policy. Each guest may bring one clear bag up to 12” x 12” or one small non-clear clutch up to 4.5” x 6.5”. Larger bags are prohibited unless medically necessary and subject to search. There is no secure storage for personal belongings, so graduates should plan accordingly.
Q: Are flowers, balloons, or gifts allowed inside?
A: No. Balloons and wrapped packages are prohibited.
Q: What items are prohibited?
A: Prohibited items include weapons, outside food or drinks, glass or metal containers, signs or banners larger than 11" x 17", air horns, fireworks, laser pointers, smoking devices, illegal substances, professional cameras or tripods, balloons, beach balls, wrapped gifts, skates, hoverboards, scooters, and full-face masks. Guests with prohibited items will be asked to return them to their vehicles or dispose of them. Refusal may result in ejection or arrest. For a complete list, please visit the Flint River Entertainment Complex Policies page.
Q: Where do graduates exit after the ceremony?
A: Graduates will exit through the tunnels leading to the back parking lot.