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 a specific bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree.
Graduation is managed and coordinated by the Graduation Office. The Graduation Office evaluates graduation applications and other educational records, including graduating with honors, for the purpose of awarding degrees.
Diplomas are mailed to the students by the Graduation Office once their final grades have been verified after their graduation term.
For more information on how to apply to graduate, please visit the Apply for your Degree website of the Graduation Office.
Participating in Commencement is optional and not mandatory. If a student chooses to not participate, it does not affect their eligibility to graduate from the University. In addition, participation in Commencement does not automatically mean that the student has graduated.
Commencement is a separate process from graduating. Eligible graduating candidates can register to participate in Commencement in mid-spring. When a student confirms participation in Commencement, Cal State LA will reserve a seat for the student at the ceremony and provide a select number of guest tickets.
The Commencement team (University Events and Protocol) produces and manages the Commencement ceremonies and activities.
Additional Resources
Graduation Office >>>
APPLY FOR YOUR DEGREE
The Graduation Office manages and coordinates the graduation process for students, staff, and faculty. They provide services including: academic record maintenance, graduation application forms, degree evaluation, baccalaureate honors designation, and diploma mailing.
Cross Cultural Centers >>>
CULTURAL GRADUATION CELEBRATIONS
The Cross Cultural Centers manage and coordinate the Cultural Graduation Celebrations. These celebrations are great opportunities to acknowledge your academic achievements, honor your families, and to celebrate the cultural influences that have contributed to your academic success.
Alumni Association >>>
STAY CONNECTED
The Alumni Association provide official representation of more than 250,000 alumni in matters that affect the general welfare of the University. Through involvement in the Alumni Association, graduates keep in contact with each other and assist the University through a network of various affiliate groups.
Social Media
All information, including dates and activities, are subject to change.
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Commencement website last updated: July 17, 2025