The tassel has been passed... Class of 2027, it's your turn to shine!
Starting in Fall 2026, we'll begin rolling out information for Commencement 2027, with new updates added throughout the semester. The complete commencement schedule, ceremony details, and key dates will be available at the start of Spring 2027.
Visit the Commencement website often to stay up to date on the latest announcements and everything you and your guests need to celebrate this milestone.
Graduation vs Commencement
Graduation and Commencement are two different things. Graduation is when the student has officially completed all their bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degree requirements. Commencement is the ceremony in which degrees are conferred and celebrates the achievement of the students who have graduated or will soon graduate during the academic year.
To officially graduate from Cal State LA, students must satisfy all University, college, and departmental requirements for their specific bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree.
Graduation is managed by the Graduation Office, which is part of the Registrar's Office. The Graduation Office evaluates graduation applications and other educational records, including honors eligibility, for the purpose of awarding degrees.
Diplomas are mailed to students by the Graduation Office once final grades have been verified after the graduation term.
For more information on how to apply for graduation, please visit the Graduation Office’s, please visit the Apply for Your Degree website of the Graduation Office.
Participation in Commencement is optional, not mandatory. Choosing not to participate does not affect a student’s eligibility to graduate from the University. Additionally, participating in Commencement does not automatically indicate that a student has graduated.
Commencement is a separate process from graduating. Eligible graduation candidates may register to participate in Commencement in mid-spring. When a student confirms participation, Cal State LA will reserve a seat for the student at the ceremony and provide a designated number of guest tickets.
The Commencement Office plans, coordinates, and manages all Commencement ceremonies and related activities, including registration, ticketing, and the distribution of honors cords.
On the Calendar
August 8, 2026
Summer Intersession Ends
August 12, 2026
Summer Intersession Grades Due
August 21, 2026
Fall Semester Begins; University Convocation
August 24, 2026
First Day of Classes; Fall Instruction Begins
September 7, 2026
Holiday - Labor Day; University Closed
Additional Resources
Graduation Office >>>
Apply for your Degree
The Graduation Office manages and coordinates the graduation process for students, staff, and faculty, ensuring a smooth and accurate transition toward degree completion. They provide services including academic record maintenance, graduation application forms, degree evaluation, baccalaureate honors designation, and diploma mailing, while also offering guidance, timelines, and support resources to help graduates navigate each required step with confidence.
Cross Cultural Centers >>>
Cultural Graduation Celebrations
The Cross Cultural Centers oversee and coordinate the Cultural Graduation Celebrations, providing meaningful opportunities for graduating students to recognize their academic accomplishments, honor the support of their families and loved ones, and celebrate the cultural identities, traditions, and communities that have shaped their educational journeys and contributed to their success. For additional details, event dates, and participation information, please visit the event website.
Alumni Association >>>
Stay Connected
The Alumni Association officially represents approximately 260,000 alumni and supports the overall welfare of the University. Through its diverse network of affiliate groups, graduates stay connected with one another and the institution while accessing professional networking, volunteer opportunities, community engagement, and valuable resources that encourage lifelong involvement with the University beyond graduation.
#calstatelagrad
Join us on social media to celebrate and congratulate our Golden Eagles!
All information, including dates and activities, is subject to change.
If you are attending Commencement, please read the audio and visual media release disclaimer.
Commencement website last updated: August 7, 2026