Congratulations and Thank You, Class of 2026! - A message from President Berenecea Johnson Eanes.
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
May 26, 2026
Summer Intersession Begins
June 15, 2026
Fall 2026 Graduation Application Deadline for Graduate and Doctorate Degrees
Eligible for Commencement 2027 participation
June 19, 2026
Juneteenth; University Closed
July 3, 2026
Independence Day (observed); 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 manage and coordinate the Cultural Graduation Celebrations. These celebrations are great opportunities for graduating students to acknowledge their academic achievements, honor their families, and to celebrate the cultural influences that have contributed to their academic success. Please visit the event website for additional information. Application deadline to participate in the Cultural Grad Celebrations is on Monday, February 9, 2026.
Alumni Association >>>
Stay Connected
The Alumni Association officially represents approximately 260,000 alumni in matters concerning the overall welfare of the University. Through participation in the Association, graduates stay connected with one another and support the institution through a wide network of diverse affiliate groups. These communities provide ongoing engagement, professional connections, meaningful volunteer opportunities, and resources that help alumni remain active members of the University long after graduation.
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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: May 29, 2026
This site is maintained by University Events and Protocol.