Commencement Checklist

Congratulations Class of 2024! 

Commencement 2024 details will be announced in January 2024.

The commencement checklist provides a rough outline of the actions a student must take, in advance, to participate. 


1. CONFIRM YOUR GRADUATION STATUS

Commencement is different from graduation. Commencement is the celebration that graduation has, or will soon occur. Graduation is the official acknowledgment that a student’s course of study is complete and, with that, a degree conferred. 

For undergraduates, you will apply to graduate with The Office of the Registrar.

For graduate students, connect with The Division of Graduate Studies regarding your graduation requirements.

Information regarding eligibility for commencement is located in the FAQ.

2. CAP AND GOWN (REGALIA) 

Regalia is not required to participate in commencement. If you wish to wear a cap and gown, a link to order will become available in February 2024. 

The ceremonies will take place outdoors. Please exercise caution when selecting attire and footwear - high heels are not recommended.  

3. UPCOMING EVENTS

Graduation & Commencement Virtual Information Session - Date and time TBA

Grad Fair - Date and time TBA 

4. COMMENCEMENT REGISTRATION

Commencement registration will open on April 1, 2024 and closes on May 13, 2024, at 11:59 p.m. PT. More information will be announced closer to the date. 

 

ADDITIONAL COMMENCEMENT INFORMATION

PROHIBITED ITEMS: Pets (ADA service animals are allowed), Drones, Confetti, Noise-Makers, Balloons, Alcohol, Smoking, or Other Drugs. 

ACCESSIBILITY ACCOMMODATIONS: UC Santa Cruz is strongly committed to making all of its programs and services accessible to students, campus employees, and members of the public. If students or guests need accommodations, it is the student’s responsibility to include this information when registering to participate. 

SUSTAINABILITY: UC Santa Cruz is deeply committed to sustainability and is striving to both reduce the amount of waste we generate, but also compost and recycle materials instead of sending them to landfills. For Commencement 2024, we're guiding to help support campus sustainability and zero waste goals.



ONCE A SLUG, ALWAYS A SLUG

Your connection to UC Santa Cruz does not end after graduation. You are now part of the Alumni Network which is over 140,000 strong. As an alumnus, you have access to events, benefits, services, and connections for life. Stay connected by updating your personal information if you move or use another primary email address. Join our alumni LinkedIn, Facebook, or Instagram channels, or find a way to give back and volunteer. No matter where you are, you’re always a Banana Slug.