Frequently Asked Questions
Ceremony Details
*Note that this is Memorial Day Weekend. Please plan accordingly. [/accordion_son][accordion_son titlemargin=”” title=”What is the difference between the University Commencement Ceremony and Degree Ceremonies?” bgclr=”#f6f2e8″]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.
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. [/accordion_son][accordion_son title=”Do I get to walk across the stage to get my diploma cover?” bgclr=”#f6f2e8″]
[/accordion_son][accordion_son title=”Will every name be called?” bgclr=”#f6f2e8″]All graduates in attendance will have their name called as they walk across the stage during their Degree Ceremony.[/accordion_son][accordion_son title=”How long will ceremonies last?” bgclr=”#f6f2e8″]The estimated duration of each ceremony can be found on the Commencement schedule on the homepage.[/accordion_son][accordion_son borderwidth2=”0px 0px 1px 0px” title=”Will I still get my diploma if I don’t participate in Commencement Weekend?” bgclr=”#f6f2e8″ borderclr2=”#dddddd”]Yes. If you have completed the necessary requirements, you will receive your diploma in the mail in summer of 2026.[/accordion_son][accordion_son borderwidth2=”0px 0px 1px 0px” title=”Where will my ceremony take place?” bgclr=”#f6f2e8″ borderclr2=”#dddddd”]All ceremonies will take place on Wilson Field.
View Commencement Map >>[/accordion_son][accordion_son borderwidth2=”0px 0px 1px 0px” title=”What should I wear?” bgclr=”#f6f2e8″ borderclr2=”#dddddd”]Dressy casual attire is recommended. Graduates will wear a cap and gown over their outfits. Please avoid stilettos or any shoes that are difficult to walk in.
It is very bright on the field during the day, so we recommend sunglasses for all attendees. It cools down at night, so don’t forget a sweater or jacket for any evening ceremonies![/accordion_son][accordion_son borderwidth2=”0px 0px 1px 0px” title=”How do I get my Commencement Weekend photos? ” bgclr=”#f6f2e8″ borderclr2=”#dddddd”]Graduates will be emailed a link to their personal gallery of photo proofs after their ceremony.
Register with our Commencement Photographer in advance to receive your photos faster!
If you are attending multiple degree ceremonies, you will receive a separate link for each ceremony.[/accordion_son][/accordion_father]
Tickets and Guest Information
There is a limit of (5) guest tickets for the University Commencement Ceremony. There is no limit to the number of guest tickets for Degree Ceremonies, but groups larger than 20 will need to submit a form with all guest names.
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.[/accordion_son][accordion_son title=”Do my guests need tickets to attend?” bgclr=”#f6f2e8″]Guest tickets are required for all Commencement Weekend Ceremonies.
Guest tickets will be distributed to students based on their RSVP information in Tassel. Tickets will be emailed to graduates the week before Commencement. [/accordion_son][accordion_son title=”Do kids need tickets?” bgclr=”#f6f2e8″]Lap-sitting children under the age of 2 do not need a ticket. All other guests will need a ticket. [/accordion_son][accordion_son title=”Are strollers allowed?” bgclr=”#f6f2e8″]Yes, strollers are permitted on Wilson Field so long as they do not impede any aisleways.
Strollers may be subject to inspection upon entry. [/accordion_son][accordion_son title=”What do I do if my guest has accessibility concerns?” bgclr=”#f6f2e8″]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.[/accordion_son][/accordion_father]
Regalia
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[/accordion_son][accordion_son title=”How do I know what to order?” bgclr=”#f6f2e8″]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, online, or at the Agora Gift Shop. [/accordion_son][accordion_son title=”Can I purchase honors cords?” bgclr=”#f6f2e8″]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.
Order Here: Honor Cords[/accordion_son][accordion_son title=”Can I decorate my cap?” bgclr=”#f6f2e8″]Yes! Students are welcome to personalize their cap as long as the message and/or images are appropriate.[/accordion_son][accordion_son title=”What color should my hood be?” bgclr=”#f6f2e8″]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.
Chapman Hood Colors[/accordion_son][accordion_son title=”Is there a way to give back my gown after Commencement? ” bgclr=”#f6f2e8″]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. [/accordion_son][/accordion_father]