Frequently Asked Questions - Graduation

When is Commencement?

Commencement 2023 will take place on Friday, May 19 – Sunday, May 21, 2023. You can view the full schedule of events here.

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.

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. No tickets are required for the individual degree ceremonies.

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.

When and where can I purchase my cap and gown?

Regalia is available for purchase through the Chapman University Campus Store.

Online orders will be available for pickup at the Commencement Fair on April 6 & 7, 2023. Orders can also be purchased in person at this time.

For questions about regalia, please contact: (714) 997-6718

Can I decorate my cap?

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

If I can’t attend, will you refund the money I spent on regalia?

No. The regalia is sold by an outside vendor, so we are unable to process refunds or changes.

How many guests am I allowed to bring to Commencement?

Guest tickets are required for the University Commencement Ceremony on Friday, May 19. Students can reserve up to (6) guest tickets.

There is no limit to how many guests you may invite to your Degree Ceremony, and tickets are not required. 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.

How long will ceremonies last?

The ceremony lengths are listed on the Commencement schedule on the homepage.

Do my guests need tickets to attend?

Guest tickets are required for the University Commencement Ceremony on Friday, May 19. Students can reserve their guest tickets through Chapman Ticketing beginning on March 1.

No tickets are required for Degree Ceremonies.

What precautions are being taken by the university in relationship to COVID-19?

Chapman University is following all current health guidelines. Please visit the CUSafelyBack website for the most up to date information.

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 2023.

Where will my ceremony take place?

All ceremonies will take place on Wilson Field.

How do I get my Commencement photos?

For more information click here!

Where can I find the most up to date information?

We will distribute the information to all necessary channels, including the Chapman University website, email, social media, and the Commencement webpage https://graduation.chapman.edu/