Updated May 2, 2023

How do I petition to graduate?
If you have not already done so, we advise you to Petition to Graduate by visiting this page on the SCU Registrar's website.  Be sure to notice deadlines related to your projected Commencement date.

What is the Commencement format?
Santa Clara University will host traditional Commencement ceremonies for undergraduates and graduates in Stevens Stadium on the Santa Clara University campus.

The Commencement stage crossing will be livestreamed for all to view and the link will be posted on the Commencement website.

Undergraduate Ceremony:
Saturday, June 17, 2023, 8:30 a.m.

Graduate Ceremonies:
Friday, June 16, 7:30 p.m. - Graduate Program in Pastoral Ministries and the School of Education and Counseling Psychology

Saturday, June 17, 4:30 p.m. - School of Engineering 

Saturday, June 17, 7:00 p.m. Leavey School of Business

How many tickets do I receive?
Each graduate will receive (8) eight guests tickets for the Commencement ceremony.  Should you need additional guest tickets, we suggest you ask other graduates if they have tickets they don't plan to utilize. (Children 2 and under do not require a ticket).

How do graduates get their Commencement GradPass and Guest Ticket(s)?
In mid-April, eligible graduates will receive an email from commencement@scu.edu detailing how to obtain their GradPass and Guest Ticket(s) via MarchingOrder. Graduates will be required to provide their guests’ name and email address. Guests will be able to access their tickets via email and will be required to have a screenshot or printed copy of their ticket to be admitted to the ceremony.

How do I order my Academic Attire?
Use this link to order your Academic Attire through Oak Hall. The deadline to order is May 21, 2023.

Will there be ADA seating at Undergraduate Commencement on Saturday, June 17?
An ADA tent will be located on the north end of Stevens Stadium which will offer shaded seating and extended aisles and rows. These seats will be available on a first come, first-served basis. It is highly recommended for guests to arrive when gates open at 7:15 a.m. 

In addition, there will also be a cooling center located in the Locatelli Center which is fully indoors and will also broadcast the Commencement ceremony.  A Livestream of Undergraduate Commencement will be hosted on the Commencement website on June 17th.

Where should I park?
On campus parking information will be updated as we get closer to the event. We are expecting large crowds at Commencement and strongly recommend using Rideshare.

I am receiving multiple degrees. Do I cross the stage twice?
Each student walks across the stage one time. Students with multiple degrees will be recognized in the Commencement Program, but must choose with which department to sit and walk. Your hood color will reflect the school or college chosen. 

When will I receive my diploma?
On stage, you will receive only your portfolio (diploma case). Your diploma will be mailed to you by the Office of the Registrar once the completion of academic requirements has been verified. Mailings begin 3-4 months after the degree completion date.

Where do I pick up my honor cord?
University honor cords are provided for undergraduate students who have achieved a cumulative grade point average of 3.500 or higher by the end of Winter Quarter. Undergraduates who have met these requirements will be notified by email in late April detailing honor cord pick up instructions.

What time will the Undergraduate Commencement gates open?
Gates will open at 7:15 a.m. on Saturday, June 17, 2023.

How long with the Undergraduate Commencement last? 
The Undergraduate Ceremony should last approximately 3 hours.

Will graduates be professionally photographed?
Graduates will have their photo taken by a professional photographer as they cross the stage.  These digital proofs will be emailed to graduates after Commencement with the opportunity to purchase photos.

Are guests allowed to bring a bag into Commencement?
The University will be adhering to the NFL Clear Bag Policy. No large purses, backpacks or bags will be allowed at Commencement. The policy states that each guest can bring one large clear bag – either a one-gallon Ziploc style bag or the 12" by 6" by 12" clear bag – plus a small clutch. A small clutch will be allowable as it provides privacy for small personal items, while also being easily searched.

Are guests allowed to bring water into Commencement?
Guests may bring an empty reusable water bottle and/or a clear unopened water bottle to the ceremony. Water filling stations will be made available to guests at Commencement. All graduates will have a small unopened bottle of water at the base of their chair at Commencement.

Will there be a Campus Liturgy before Commencement?
Graduates and their families are invited to participate in a student-planned Liturgy on Friday, June 16 at 4:00 p.m. in Stevens Stadium. All are welcome to attend.

What if I have questions about the Undergraduate Grad Bash?
The Alumni Association will host an Undergraduate celebration at Bellomy Field on Friday, June 16 from 5:30 - 8:30 p.m., immediately following the Campus Liturgy. Tickets are $50 per person, which includes a reserved table, food, drinks, games, and music. Children 12 and under are free. Please visit Grad Bash & FAQs for more information and to purchase tickets.

What precautions will you take for COVID-19?
Commencement ceremonies will be held in accordance with state and county Covid-19 protocols at the time of the event. We encourage guests to take a rapid antigen test the day of the event and only attend if the result is negative. Visit PreparedSCU for the latest information.