Top 5: Prepare for graduation events + order your cap and gown

Congratulations, Ram graduates!

You’re receiving this email because you have completed 90 or more credit hours or are a graduate student. CSU hosts commencement (i.e. the events to celebrate your graduation) once a year each Spring, and you may select which Spring commencement you’d like to participate in based on your schedule and preference.

What’s the difference between commencement and graduation, you ask? Good question! Commencement refers to the events celebrating your graduation. Graduation refers to the completion of your degree credits. Check out the glossary of terms.

What you need to know when it comes to academics/graduation/your diploma:

  • Undergraduates (bachelor students) should manage their degree completion and intent to graduate through RAMweb and the Office of the Registrar.
  • Graduate students (master’s and doctoral students) should apply to graduate through the Graduate School.
  • Diplomas are mailed after your academic degree is completed.

Top 5 things you need to know about the events to celebrate your graduation:

    1. COMMENCEMENT DETAILS + RSVP: Have you learned about the University-wide Commencement and found your respective recognition ceremony? All students who wish to participate in the Spring 2025 commencement events must RSVP
    2. CAP + GOWN DEADLINE: It’s time to purchase your cap and gown (also known as regalia) – Feb. 28 is the deadline to pre-purchase a Grad Pack.
      • If you believe you may be eligible for Latin Distinction, please look for an email from the Office of the Registrar by Feb. 10 so you can purchase the appropriate gown color.
    3. WHAT HAPPENS WHEN? Students and guests should plan to attend both events to get the full commencement experience.
      • University-wide Commencement is 4:30-6 p.m. on Friday, May 16 – it’s a chance for the entire graduating class and guests to celebrate and share in traditions.
      • Recognition ceremonies are grouped by academic unit and held Thursday, May 15 through Sunday, May 18 – at these events bachelor’s and master’s students have their names read, cross a stage, and receive a diploma cover. If you’re a doctoral student, the hooding ceremony is your recognition ceremony.
    4. TICKETS: Graduating students receive six (6) guaranteed tickets to University-wide Commencement and may request more via the RSVP form. Students should indicate attendance numbers for recognition ceremonies to assist with planning, but tickets are not required for recognition ceremony entrance. Learn more about tickets.
    5. MORE QUESTIONS? Check out the commencement website, share it with your guests, and while you’re there check out the answers to the most common student questions.
Home stretch, Rams – we’re so proud! Enjoy your semester, and don’t forget to RSVP for commencement events and order your cap and gown ASAP!
GO RAMS!