For Graduates

Graduates walking across football field

Commencement is a big day during a stressful time as you try to wrap up your schoolwork, have fun, say goodbye, and plan your future — all at once. To ensure you have an easy, memorable experience, visit this page for the latest on everything you need to know.

Spring 2024 Ceremony
Date
May 11, 2024
Time
10:30 a.m.
Other Details

Check back in the spring for details.

FAQs for Graduates

Do I need to register for Commencement?

Yes. Commencement is free for graduates, but you must register by April 12 to have your name printed in the program. If you miss that deadline, you can still participate, but your name won’t be listed. Please contact us if you do not receive an email.

Do guests need tickets to attend Commencement?

Yes. Each graduate can purchase a maximum of four guest tickets. All guest tickets are reserved seating and range from $10 to $15 each. As of March 12, we are sold out of club tickets. The ceremony will also be livestreamed on commencement.berkeley.edu.

What can graduates expect during the ceremony?

Graduates need to be at Witter Rugby Field (near Gate 8) at 8:30 a.m. You will begin entering California Memorial Stadium at 9 a.m., and the ceremony starts at 10:30 a.m.

Graduates who require disability access can be dropped off at Underhill Garage, where an ADA shuttle will take them to Gate 6 at the stadium. ADA golf carts will also be available at the stadium if you need assistance there.

If you would like to sit with your friends during the ceremony, stand in line together, as seating is unassigned. Please be patient and follow staff instructions.

The ceremony lasts about 90 minutes and includes the keynote speaker, student speaker, and the official conferring of degrees by the Chancellor.

How do I get my name in the program?

Graduates must register by Friday, April 12, 2024 to be listed in the printed program. If you miss that deadline, you can still register for the ceremony, but your name won’t be listed in the program.

What do I wear?

Purchase your cap, tassel, stole, and gown — including an eco-friendly rental option — at the Cal Student Store. You may also dress in business casual or cocktail attire. (The university does not provide stoles, leis, and other items for the campuswide ceremony.) We recommend that you NOT wear high heels, as graduates will be seated in the steep stands.

Will my name be called?

Graduate names are called during the winter ceremony only.

The spring ceremony is too large to call out every graduate’s name. However, many departments and student groups hold smaller, more personal graduations during the spring semester that may include the calling of names. Visit the Department Graduations page to contact your department, school, or college directly.

Will I receive my diploma at Commencement?

No. The Office of the Registrar mails diplomas four months after graduation. (Visit their website for information on transcripts, diplomas, and other academic records.) Graduates receive a commemorative certificate at most department graduations.

How do I sign up for Commencement emails?

If you are a current student who plans to participate in the campuswide Commencement on May 11, 2024, and would like to receive emails about registration, guest tickets, and more, first check all email inboxes, including your spam and promotions folders, for emails from “commencement@our.berkeley.edu” or “commencement@berkeley.edu.” If you haven’t received an email from this address, fill out this form to make sure you’re included. This email list is for graduates only and will be deleted after Commencement. Parents and other guests, please contact your student directly for details about the day.

How do I participate in social media?

Use #CalGrad in your social media posts, whether you’re a graduate sharing a favorite memory, a proud parent congratulating your child, or an alum offering sage advice. You can also upload photos and videos directly into the Social Media page.

How do I stay connected to UC Berkeley?
  1. Become a member of the Cal Alumni Association (CAA). 2024 graduates are eligible for a complimentary one-year membership.
  2. Check out other ways to engage with your UC Berkeley community all year long.

Department Graduations

Two male graduates and one female graduate, all in regalia, stand smiling in front of the steps leading to Memorial Stadium.

In addition to the campuswide Commencements in May and December, which are sponsored by the university, many departments and student groups hold smaller, more personal graduations in the spring semester only. Each group’s plans, registration, and tickets are handled independently. Graduates can choose to attend the campuswide Commencement, department graduation, or both. Ask your loved ones about their plans.

See all Department Graduations