ZUCKER SCHOOL OF MEDICINE
Where the Journey into Medicine Takes Shape
The White Coat ceremony is a significant moment in a medical student’s career. This ceremony creates a psychological, intellectual, and ethical contract between the student and the profession, with the goal to promote empathy in the practice of medicine from the very start of medical training. Established in 1993 by the Arnold P. Gold Foundation, the White Coat Ceremony is a traditional rite of passage celebrated by medical schools throughout the country and represents a major step in the careers of medical students, marking their transition from students to medical professionals.
Read About Last Year’s White Coat Ceremony
Ceremony Details
Friday, October 16, 2026
This year’s ceremony will take place at the David S. Mack Sports & Exhibition Complex starting at 2 PM EST.
Information for Class of 2030
Please be sure to check your email for details on RSVP
- On the morning of the ceremony, students are expected to attend classes.
- Ceremony Attendance – Be sure to RSVP via link in email.
- Coat Distribution – provided during ceremony
Students are expected to attend morning classes on October 16 and arrive at Hofstra’s Physical Education Building (PEB) by 1pm.
- By 1:00pm: MS1 students report to staging area and pickup their White Coat (Physical Education Building or PEB, next to the Arena)
- 1:15pm – 1:25pm: MS1s addressed by leadership
- 1:25pm – 1:50pm: Group photo & final reminders.
- 1:50pm – 2pm: Students line up & procession.
The Ceremony will start at at 2:00 p.m and is expected to last approximately 60 to 90 minutes
Read more about parking information and ADA accommodations.
- Dress code is business attire: Keep in mind, you will be walking up and down stairs during the ceremony and your white coat needs to fit comfortably over your outfit; choose your shoes and outfits accordingly. We recommend you not wear a blazer or sweater.
- Please leave personal belongings with your family members or in your car. You will not be permitted to process in carrying anything but your White Coat. Be sure to come to the staging area without coats, bags, etc.
Guests of Class of 2030
Your student will RSVP on your behalf
Absolutely no large posters, confetti makers, noise makers, etc. On-site public safety may or may not confiscate items.
Details for local hotels can be found here.
Parking Instructions & Maps
For details on how to reach Hofstra University, please visit https://www.hofstra.edu/visitors/directions-maps.html
Please join us at the Zucker School of Medicine for a reception following the ceremony.
Faculty & Leadership
(ZSOM, Hofstra & Northwell Leadership)
The 2026 White Coat Ceremony Faculty and Leadership Brochure provides helpful information, answers to frequently asked questions, and important details for faculty and leadership participating in the ceremony. Please save a copy and refer to it as the ceremony approaches.
Accessibility Planning
Hofstra University is committed to accessibility and ensuring equal access for all attendees at our milestone ceremonies. Information regarding accessibility initiatives and resources are detailed below. If you or any of your guests require accommodations, please have your student submit this request when they RSVP.
David S. Mack Sports and Exhibition Complex: This facility is accessible on the main level, and accessible seating will be available for guests. One family member may accompany those who require accessible seating in this area during the ceremony. Upon entrance to the arena, please contact a staff member, who will be happy to escort you.
Communication Access Realtime Translation (CART) captions will be displayed on large screens during the ceremony. American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters will sign in the reserved section on the main floor of the David S. Mack Sports and Exhibition Complex.
ADA-accessible parking is available. If you are traveling by car with someone who uses a mobility device or has difficulty walking long distances, we recommend arriving early to drop them off near the main entrance of the David S. Mack Sports and Exhibition Complex before parking.
The White Coat Ceremony will be broadcast live. You may find the link here.
Accessible restrooms are available inside the David S. Mack Sports and Exhibition Complex.
Service animals, as defined by the ADA, are welcome at the White Coat Ceremony. They must remain under the control of their handlers at all times and should not disrupt the proceedings. Event staff reserve the right to relocate guests if a service animal violates fire safety standards or cannot be accommodated in the assigned seating area.
Please note that emotional support animals (ESAs) are only permitted in residential areas and are not recognized as service animals under the ADA.
Share Your White Coat Moment
Celebrate With Us on Social Media
We love sharing your stories and celebrating this milestone with you. Tag @ZuckerSOM and use #ZuckerMedMilestones and #ZuckerSOMoments for a chance to be featured on our social channels.
For specific details regarding upcoming ceremonies, for guests, or scheduling, please contact the Office of Student Affairs: 516-463-7347