Frequently Asked Questions - Graduation

Ceremony Details

When is Commencement?

Commencement 2025 will take place on Friday, May 23 – Sunday, May 25, 2025*. You can view the full schedule of events here.

*Note that this is Memorial Day Weekend. Please plan accordingly.

What is the difference between the University Commencement Ceremony and Degree Ceremonies?

The University Commencement Ceremony is the university wide celebration of all graduates. Students from all the schools and colleges come together to celebrate as an entire graduating class. There will be a keynote speaker, students will turn their tassels, and everyone is invited to a celebratory toast afterwards in the Aitken Arts Plaza. Guest tickets are required for the University Commencement Ceremony. Students can reserve their guest tickets beginning February 25.

Degree Ceremonies are specific to each school and college. Students will have their names called and walk across the stage to receive their diploma cover at their Degree Ceremony.

Do I get to walk across the stage to get my diploma cover?

Absolutely! Students will have their names called and walk across the stage at their school/college Degree Ceremony.

Will every name be called?

All graduates in attendance will have their name called as they walk across the stage during their Degree Ceremony.

How long will ceremonies last?

The estimated duration of each ceremony can be found on the Commencement schedule on the homepage.

Will I still get my diploma if I don’t participate in Commencement?

Yes. If you have completed the necessary requirements, you will receive your diploma in the mail in summer of 2025.

Where will my ceremony take place?

All ceremonies will take place on Wilson Field.

View Commencement Map >>

How do I get my Commencement photos?

Graduates will be emailed a link to their personal gallery of photo proofs after Commencement.

If you are attending multiple degree ceremonies, you will receive a separate link for each ceremony.

Tickets and Guest Information

How many guests am I allowed to bring to Commencement?

Guest tickets are required for the University Commencement Ceremony on Friday, May 23. Students can reserve up to (6) guest tickets.

There is no limit to how many guests you may invite to your Degree Ceremony.

In case you have guests who cannot attend in person, Chapman provides a livestream of the ceremony that can be viewed at several locations on or off campus.

Do my guests need tickets to attend?

Guest tickets are required for the University Commencement Ceremony on Friday, May 23. Students can reserve their guest tickets through Chapman Ticketing beginning on February 25.

Do kids need tickets?

Lap-sitting children under the age of 2 do not need a ticket. All other guests will need a ticket for the University Commencement Ceremony on Friday, May 23.

No guest tickets are required for the Degree Ceremonies.

Are strollers allowed?

Yes, strollers are permitted on Wilson Field so long as they do not impede any aisleways.

Strollers may be subject to inspection upon entry.

What do I do if my guest has accessibility concerns?

We strive to host inclusive, accessible events that enable all individuals, including individuals with disabilities, to engage fully.

To request an accommodation, or for inquiries about accessibility, please email commencement@chapman.edu, or call 714-997-6740.

Regalia

How can I purchase my cap and gown?

Regalia will be available for purchase beginning at Graduation Fair on February 25 & 26 in Argyros Forum 209 ABC.

Students who do not purchase their cap and gown at Graduation Fair can purchase online or in-person at the Agora Gift Shop in Argyros Forum.

*Pharmacy and Law Students – check with your department for regalia instructions

How do I know what to order?

Our team of experts will be at Graduation Fair to help you select everything you need for Commencement!

Graduates are required to wear a gown, cap, and tassel. Masters and Doctoral students will also need to wear the appropriate hood for their major.

Stoles are optional and can be purchased at Graduation Fair, or at the Agora Gift Shop.

Can I purchase honors cords?

Undergraduate Seniors who are candidates for “Latin Honors at Commencement” have a 3.50 overall GPA (comprised of two components, a 3.5 Chapman GPA AND a 3.5 cumulative GPA including transfer work), have accumulated 54 Chapman-in-residence units taken for a letter grade and have applied for graduation. These students are eligible to purchase a university Honors Cord. One cord signifies all levels of honors.

Can I decorate my cap?

Yes! Students are welcome to personalize their cap as long as the message and/or images are appropriate.

What color should my hood be?

All Chapman hoods have red and white lining, showcasing the colors of the school from which the degree was received. The velvet edging of the hood indicates the subject of degree.

View Chapman Hood Colors

Is there a way to give back my gown after Commencement?

Yes! You can donate your cap, gown, tassel and/or stole to the Office of Sustainability as part of the Regalia Reuse Program.

Help a future graduate and the environment!

Drop off locations to come.