Know before you go
Ceremonies
Graduation consists of two complementary ceremonies: University-wide Commencement and smaller recognition ceremonies grouped by college and academic unit. To get the full CSU graduation experience, students and their supporters should plan to attend both ceremonies.
CSU’s University-wide Commencement offers a shared, traditional experience for all CSU graduates and their guests. The 90-minute ceremony includes a processional into Canvas Stadium, remarks from CSU leadership, and a keynote speaker to celebrate the milestone of college graduation.
Graduates must RSVP for University-wide Commencement and recognition ceremonies.
Tickets
University-wide Commencement is not ticketed. However, recognition ceremonies require tickets for guest entry.
Graduates can receive up to six (6) guest tickets for each recognition ceremony with the ability to request more via the RSVP form. The University Honors Program ceremony is limited to three (3) guests per graduate.
Additional tickets are not guaranteed as they are based on final RSVP numbers; graduates will find out if their additional requests have been granted in the weeks leading up to commencement events as digital tickets are distributed to graduates’ CSU emails.
Please note for planning purposes that all are welcome at University-wide Commencement since tickets are not required.
What to Wear
Graduates
Traditional regalia should be worn at Unviersity-wide Commencement and recognition ceremonies.
All participating graduates will dress in traditional regalia based on degree level, available for purchase through the Alumni Association’s Grad Packs (Orders open Jan. 20, 2026). Ordered regalia will be ready for pick up at Grad Fest. Photo ID required for pick up!
Beyond regalia, graduates should wear business or business casual attire with comfortable footwear. The University-wide Commencement ceremony will take place outside, rain or shine, so attire should be weather appropriate. Ponchos will be distributed to graduates in case of rain.
Guests
Guests may wear whatever makes them comfortable. Comfortable footwear and planning for the weather is recommended.
Where to Go
Processional
Student processional line up for University-wide Commencement begins one (1) hour before the ceremony, when gates open to the stadium, so you and your families can arrive on campus together. You will join your peers in lot 473, directly north of Canvas Stadium and the Alumni Center.
Seating
Seating at all ceremonies is general admission and first-come, first-served. Accessible seating is available at all events. Review accessibility & accommodations.
Connecting after the ceremony
Guests will not be permitted on the Canvas Stadium field after University-wide Commencement.
Graduating students will leave Canvas Stadium at the conclusion of the ceremony and should arrange a meeting place with family and friends nearby. Flags identifying colleges will be located around Canvas Stadium to provide a focal gathering point for graduates and guests.
Food & Concessions
Canvas Stadium concessions will be open and food will be available for purchase during University-wide Commencement. Outside food and drink is not permitted. Empty soft-sided water bottles are permitted, and water fill stations are present throughout the stadium.
Lory Student Center Dining offers a variety of dining options, the majority of which will be open on Friday. A smaller selection will be available on Saturday and Sunday.
There are also dozens of dining options within 10 minutes of campus (walking), including coffee shops, casual dining, and full-service restaurants.
Moby Arena concessions will not be open during recognition ceremonies taking place at the arena.