Am I eligible to graduate?
You must apply to graduate through MYCSULB Student Center to be eligible to graduate.
If you have applied to graduate for Winter 2019, Spring 2019, Summer 2019 or Fall 2019 (before the published deadlines), you will be invited to the May 2019 ceremonies and your name will be listed in the program.
If you did not apply to graduate for Fall 2019 by the March 1st deadline, your name will not be included in the program. If you have not applied to graduate for Winter 2019, Spring 2019, Summer 2019 or Fall 2019 by May 1, 2019, you will not be able to attend the Spring 2019 ceremonies.
Do I need to sign up to attend?
If you have applied to graduate through MYCSULB for Winter 2019, Spring 2019, Summer 2019 or Fall 2019 you will be invited to the May 2019 ceremonies. There is no additional registration required.
If you did not apply to graduate for Fall 2019 by the March 1st deadline, your name will not be included in the program. If you have not applied to graduate for Winter 2019, Spring 2019, Summer 2019 or Fall 2019 by May 1, 2019, you will not be able to attend the Spring 2019 ceremonies.
What ceremony do I go to if I’m graduating in December?
If you are a Fall 2019 candidate, you are part of the 2018-2019 academic class and you will be invited to the 2019 ceremony and your name will be listed in the 2019 program.
If you applied to graduate for Fall 2018 and would like to attend the 2019 Commencement Ceremonies, please notify us at commencement@csulb.edu by March 1, 2019 so that your name will appear in this year's program.
How do I get my name in the program?
If you have applied to graduate through MYCSULB Student Center for the terms of Winter 2019, Spring 2019, Summer 2019 or Fall 2019 before the published deadlines, your name will be listed in the program.
If you did not apply to graduate for Fall 2019 by the March 1st deadline, your name will not be included in the program.
Will my name be announced during the ceremony?
Yes, every graduate will have their name read as they cross the stage, regardless of whether it is listed in the program.
How many tickets do I get and how do I pick them up?
All Graduates will receive 8 tickets so that all attendees have a pleasant experience. Commencement tickets are complimentary and will be first distributed along with your Cap and Gown at the Bookstore.
Distribution Event
The Distribution Event date is coming soon.
All walk up orders for gowns and tickets will start Friday, May 10th and go through Commencement, during regular bookstore hours. Even if you are not picking up a cap and gown for your ceremony, you can receive your guest tickets from the Bookstore. You must present either your CSULB ID card or picture ID, along with your student ID number, to obtain tickets. A friend or family member may pick up your tickets if he/she shows your identification card, if you are unable to come during Bookstore hours.
If you do not pick up your tickets by the times mentioned above, we cannot guarantee you will receive your full number of commencement tickets.
Every person attending the ceremony will need a ticket - including children. No additional tickets will be provided and it is recommended that you ask classmates if you can have their unused tickets. No tickets will be required to watch the live stream of the ceremony in the Walter Pyramid. Extra guests are encouraged to watch the ceremony from this location. If you plan on bringing small children, it is recommended that you view the ceremony in the live-streaming room. Please note, CSULB does not authorize the sale of complimentary tickets.
First-come, first-served seating is available for your guests in folding chairs and grandstands.
GUESTS: TICKETS WILL BE REQUIRED FOR ENTRY TO THE VENUE. PLEASE SEE AN USHER BEFORE EXITING TO RECEIVE A HANDSTAMP.
How do I get my cap and gown?
Cap and gown rental is handled by the University Bookstore.
How do I know if I am graduating with honors?
GPA honors are not recognized at the ceremony. (GPAs are not calculated until your degree has been granted, several weeks after the end of the semester.)
To inquire about honors in the major, go to the major department office.
Where are the ceremonies held?
The Intramural Field on lower campus. Folding chairs and grandstand seating will be available for the graduates and guests.
What time should I get there and where do I go?
Graduates should arrive on campus at least one hour prior to the start of the ceremony to check in and line-up.
At least one hour prior to the ceremony is recommended for guests as well. Guests attending the prior ceremony will be exiting campus as others are arriving. Large crowds are expected, please allow at least one hour to park and walk to the ceremony site.
Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis. Approx. 12,000 guests will be in attendance for the large Colleges. All ceremonies are held outdoors. Folding chairs on grass and grandstand seating will be available.
Where do I park?
All parking structures and student parking lots on lower campus, off of Atherton, will be open to the public for free parking during the ceremony. The lots on upper campus are designated for faculty and staff.
Parking information: Office of Parking and Transportation 562 985-4146
Do I need to check in when I get there?
Yes, you should arrive on campus at least one hour prior to the start of the ceremony. Check-in will take place at the entrance to the Track & Field, closest to CBA.
Are there special arrangements for the disabled?
Diabled guests should park in lot G12 (in front of the Carpenter Center)Please contact the Office of Parking and Transportation for assistance and directions to special parking lots and drop off locations: 562 985-4146.
The university does not provide wheelchairs and it does not reserve seating for any guests. Staff will be available to assist guests in wheelchairs to the appropriate seating area. For elderly guests and others who are unable to sit outside, the ceremonies will be broadcast live indoors, adjacent to the ceremony site at the Walter Pyramid. No ticket will be required to watch the ceremony from the live streaming room.
Please contact Disabled Student Services at 562.985.5401 if you would like more information on the amenities for senior or disabled guests.
What kind of seating is available?
Folding chairs on grass, surrounded by grandstands. Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis.
For elderly guests and others who are unable to sit outside, the ceremonies will be broadcast live indoors at the Walter Pyramid. The university does not provide wheelchairs and it does not reserve seating for any guests.
Staff will be available to assist guests in wheelchairs to the appropriate seating area.
GUESTS: HANDSTAMP WILL BE REQUIRED FOR REENTRY TO THE VENUE. PLEASE SEE AN USHER BEFORE EXITING.
How do I get pictures?
Professional photographers will be stationed on and around the stage. Proofs of the photos will be emailed to you within three days.
Guests will not be allowed to stand in the aisles or to approach the stage to take pictures. Tripods and large video equipment are not allowed.
What will the weather be like?
Typically, it is damp and foggy in the mornings, warm or hot in the afternoons, and breezy and cool in the evenings after 5:00pm. Rain is uncommon. Light layers are recommended. Most guests will be sitting in the sun.
Sun shades and umbrellas will not be allowed to block the view of others.
How long is the ceremony?
Approximately two hours.
Is there a list of local Long Beach Hotels?
The University Housing site offers a list of local hotels and accomodations.
Where do I return my cap and gown?
Gowns and hoods, if applicable, are to be returned at the venue as you exit, at the Bookstore, or at The Beach on 2nd Street in Belmont Shore.
How do I get my diploma?
Degree clearing takes place in the Office of Enrollment Services during a four to eight week period following the end of your last semester. You will be notified by email when your degree has been granted, and you’ll be given diploma information at that time. Enrollment Services: 562.985.5471.
Who can I call for more information?
Each college is responsible for the logistical coordination of its own ceremony. For information regarding your college's ceremony, please contact the appropriate coordinator.