Frequently Asked Questions

Welcome to the University of La Verne Commencement FAQ page!

This page is designed to help graduating students and their families prepare for one of the most meaningful milestones in your academic journey, ULV’s Commencement celebration. Below you’ll find key information about participation, schedules, tickets, regalia, guest policies, accessibility, parking, livestream details, and more.

Whether you’re walking across the stage, planning travel for loved ones, or just curious about what to expect, this FAQ is your go-to resource for answers and guidance.

For any questions not covered here, please contact commencement@laverne.edu.

Question When is Commencement?

The Class of 2026 Commencement ceremonies will take place on Saturday, May 30, 2026 on the La Verne Campus at Ortmayer Football Stadium.

ALL Undergraduate Degrees: 9:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
ALL Master’s and Doctoral Degrees: 6:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Question How long will each commencement ceremony last?

Each ceremony will be approximately two and a half hours.

Question Will the ceremonies be livestreamed?

Yes. Both ceremonies will be livestreamed on the University of La Verne Commencement website.

Question What is required of me to wear at commencement?

All ULV graduates must wear official University of La Verne regalia, including a gown, hood, cap, and tassel.

Question How do I apply for graduation (commencement)?

The graduation application and fee are required of all students.

Undergraduate students should file an Application for Graduation with the Registrar’s Office two semesters prior to the anticipated completion date. Payment of the graduation fee must also be submitted, either online or in-person at Student Accounts in Woody Hall.

If you have a major in International Business and Language, Liberal Arts, Music, Social Science, or any other major not listed in the catalog, you must also submit a major contract – signed by your major advisor – with your application for graduation.

If you have a minor that is not printed in the catalog, you must also submit a minor contract – signed by your minor advisor – with your application for graduation.

Question How much does it cost to apply for graduation?

The graduation fee is currently set as follows:

Undergraduates: $140
Graduates (Masters): $160
Graduates (Doctoral): $300

This is required of all students, and covers the costs associated with the completion of a degree program, including your degree posting and diploma. For the most up-to-date information on graduation fees, please check Tuition and Fees for the current year.

Question What is the deadline to apply for graduation?

Deadline to apply for all graduate and undergraduate students is March 23, 2026.

Deadline to apply for all Doctoral students is May 1, 2026.

Question What are the requirements for me to be cleared for commencement this May?

You must have applied for commencement and paid the fee. Also, you must have met one (1) of the following conditions to be cleared for commencement:

completed all course and semester hour requirements and minimum GPA requirements in the prior fall academic term with or without January Intersession OR
demonstrated enrollment in final courses and have met all GPA minimums in spring academic term, OR
met all subject, semester hour, and GPA minimums through the spring academic term AND demonstrated proof of enrollment in “final” summer term courses if these are needed to complete the degree.

Question What do I need to do to make sure I can participate in commencement this May?

Once you are cleared, you will receive information from the Commencement Office through your student email address. You will need to purchase your required regalia (cap, gown, hood and tassel), and fill out the commencement participation/RSVP form. You will only be able to claim your guest tickets after you fill out the participation/RSVP form.

If you do not fill out the participation form, you will not receive your guest tickets or any other important information about commencement.

Question How do I know if I am cleared to participate in the commencement ceremony?

The Commencement webpage will post a cleared listed with all students that are cleared for each commencement ceremony. This will be updated every Friday starting March 6, 2026, until May 29, 2026.

Question Can I be cleared for commencement if I have missing requirements?

No, you cannot be cleared for commencement if you have outstanding requirements such as but not limited to:

Undergraduates: outstanding general education requirement(s) and/or outstanding major or minor requirements and/or not meeting minimum semester hour requirements in the major or minor or university minimums; missing grades (MG); less than 2.0 ULV GPA in the major, minor, or overall.

Graduate students: outstanding subject area requirements and/or not meeting minimum semester hours and/or not meeting the minimum GPA for the specific degree (each degree program has its own GPA minimums, check with your academic advisor or review your degree audit (MyDegree Tracker).

All students: review the question, “What are the requirements for me to be cleared for the commencement this May?” on this website to ensure that you meet the requirements to be cleared for commencement.

Question Can I be cleared for commencement if I must return in the fall semester?

No, you cannot be cleared for commencement if you have outstanding requirements that require you to return in the fall academic term. You must have completed all subject, GPA, and degree requirements through the summer to be cleared for that season’s spring commencement. Returning in the fall term for outstanding requirements puts you on track to complete the degree at the end of the fall term and makes you eligible for next year’s spring commencement.

Question I am graduating in Spring 2026 and have not received any information via email. How can I find out if I am on the mass email list?

Please email the Commencement Office and inform them that you have yet to receive any information. You can also check the cleared list on this website that is updated every Friday. Only students that have been cleared to participate in the commencement will be receiving email communications from the Commencement Office and will only be sent to your La Verne student email account. Also, review the question, “What are the requirements for me to be cleared for the commencement this May?” on this website to ensure that you meet the requirements to be cleared for commencement.

Only students that have been cleared to participate in the commencement will be receiving email communications from the Commencement Office and will only be sent to your La Verne student email account.

Question What is Grad Finale?

Grad Finale is a optional fair-like experience that brings multiple University Departments together for you to have a chance to speak with them regarding your graduation. Graduates will be able to shop for regalia, diploma frames, class rings, announcements, take photos with a backdrop and professional portraits, as well as speak with a variety of university departments to get information about commencement and career paths. Raffle tickets will be given to all students that check in for an opportunity to win a prize. Graduates are encouraged to bring family members to share in this experience alongside them!

Question When and where is Grad Finale?

Grad Finale will take place on Saturday, March 7, 2026, from 10:00am to 3:00pm in the SSAP Gym (the Tents) at the La Verne campus.

Question What will be available to purchase at Grad Finale?

You will be able to purchase your academic regalia (gown, hood, cap, tassel) needed to participate in your commencement ceremony. Additional accessories like stoles, souvenir tassels, and zipper pulls will also be sold. Diploma frames, ULV Alumni apparel, and other items will be available to purchase from the Campus Store. You can also talk to a Jostens representative to purchase class rings and announcements.

Question How do I know what to order?

Graduates MUST wear University of La Verne academic regalia (gown, hood, cap, tassel) to participate in the commencement ceremony. Stoles and additional accessories are optional.

Question Will doctoral regalia be available for purchase?

Yes. Basic doctoral regalia will be available for purchase at Grad Finale, with limited quantities available. Graduates may also place orders for custom doctoral regalia at Grad Finale with a Jostens representative.

Question Can I order my cap and gown online before Grad Finale?

Yes! Academic regalia (gown, hood, cap, tassel) is available for purchase online through Jostens. Please keep in mind that the last day to purchase regalia online is Friday, April 10, 2026. Regalia delivery can take up to seven weeks, so it is recommended that you purchase as soon as possible.

Regalia ordered through Jostens will not be available for pick up at Grad Finale.

Question What if I can't attend Grad Finale?

Grad Finale is optional to attend. Sashes, caps, and gowns are available for purchase online through Jostens. Please keep in mind that the last day to purchase regalia online is Friday, April 10, 2026. Regalia delivery can take up to seven weeks, so it is recommended that you purchase as soon as possible. You may also purchase additional alumni related items through the University of La Verne’s Campus Store.

Question Can I purchase academic regalia at the University Bookstore?

No. Academic regalia will not be sold at the University of La Verne Bookstore. For last-minute purchases, in-person regalia sales will be held on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, and Wednesday, May 13, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. in Leo’s Den, located in the Sara and Michael Abraham Campus Center. Inventory is limited and available while supplies last.

Question What time should I arrive to check in for the commencement ceremony?

Graduating students should arrive at least 90 minutes prior to the start of their ceremony to allow time for check-in and lineup.

Question Will I walk across the stage and receive a diploma cover?

Yes. All participating graduates will walk across the stage and receive a diploma cover during the ceremony. Diplomas are mailed after degrees are officially posted.

Question Will every graduate’s name be called?

Yes. Each participating graduate’s name will be announced as they cross the stage.

Question Will I receive my diploma if I do not participate in Commencement?

Yes. Participation in Commencement is optional and does not affect degree conferral.

Question Will I receive photos from the ceremony?

Grad Images will photograph each graduate on stage. They will contact you via your ULV student email with viewing and purchasing information.

Question How do I purchase my cap and gown?

Official ULV regalia may be purchased through the Jostens website. The last day to purchase regalia online is Friday, April 10, 2026.

Question How do I know what regalia to order?

Regalia is based on the degree you are earning (bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral). Please select the appropriate degree type when ordering.

Question What color should my hood be?

Hood colors vary by degree and academic discipline. Please refer to the Academic Regalia Guide – Hood and Honor Cord Sheet – 2025-2026 or contact Jostens for assistance.

Question Can I decorate my cap?

Yes. Cap decorations are permitted as long as they are appropriate and do not obstruct the view of others.

Question Are customized stoles allowed?

Yes, with prior approval. Please email a photo of your customized stole to commencement@laverne.edu for approval. Stoles containing vulgar, offensive, or obscene language or imagery will not be approved.

You may now purchase a custom-made stole on the Jostens website. Up to 8 different sections can be customized with your College, ULV, University of La Verne, Campus, Logo etc.

Question What if I do not have regalia on the day of Commencement?

Limited regalia will be available for purchase at the Information Booth on the day of Commencement.

Question How do I purchase doctoral regalia?

Doctoral graduates may purchase basic regalia online through Jostens. For custom doctoral regalia, please contact Jostens representative Jackie Springer for assistance. For department-specific guidance, please contact the head of your academic department.

Question I completed my degree in Fall 2025. Would I be considered Class of 2025 or 2026, and what will my tassel have?

Your degree will be posted after completion of all degree work, and you will receive an email stating that your degree has been posted. Your tassel will represent the class you are graduating from which would be 2026.

Question Who should I contact from Jostens for questions or concerns about regalia?

Please contact Jostens representative Jackie Springer.

Question How many tickets does each graduate receive?

Eligible graduates may claim up to eight (8) guest tickets beginning Monday, April 13, 2026. No additional tickets will be available.

As a reminder, the ceremonies will be livestreamed from the Commencement page.

Question Do guests need tickets?

Yes. All guests attending in person must present a ticket to enter Ortmayer Stadium.

Question Do children need tickets?

Children age two and older require a ticket. Children under two may sit on a lap without a ticket.

Question Is there ADA-compliant seating available?

Yes. ADA seating is available on the field in designated tented areas on a first-come, first-served basis. Seating is limited to the individual needing accommodation and one guest.

Question Can I bring food or drinks into the stadium?

Only sealed water bottles are permitted. Filtered water refill stations will be available. No food or other beverages are allowed.

Question Are strollers, balloons, or posters allowed?

No. Items that may obstruct views or pose safety concerns are not permitted.

Question Are stiletto heels or pointed heels allowed at Commencement?

Stiletto heels or heels that come to a point are not permitted on the Ortmayer Stadium football field, as they may damage the turf. Graduates and guests wearing footwear that can puncture the field surface will be denied access to the field. We recommend wearing flat shoes, wedges, or block heels.

Question What items are prohibited at Commencement?

To help ensure a safe and enjoyable Commencement experience for all attendees, the University of La Verne asks that graduates and guests observe the following policies for all Commencement-related activities. The items listed below are not permitted inside Ortmayer venues. Policies are subject to change.

The following items are prohibited:

Food and beverages (with the exception of sealed water bottles)
Balloons
Large bags, backpacks, or oversized purses
Firearms, knives, explosives, or weapons of any kind
Coolers or containers, except for medically necessary items with proper documentation
Artificial noisemakers, including air horns or megaphones
Large signs, flags, poles, banners, or laser pointers
Pets, with the exception of trained service animals

University of La Verne staff and security personnel reserve the right to prohibit any item deemed a safety or security concern. All guests may be subject to security screening, including inspection of permitted bags, upon entry.

Question What security measures will be in place?

All guests are subject to security screening upon entry. University staff and security personnel will be present throughout the event to ensure a safe environment.

Question Where can guests park?

Guests may park in university lots and parking structures. Parking permits are not required on Commencement day.

Do not park on residential streets and restricted parking areas. Surrounding streets may be available for parking, however, we recommend that you follow all street signs and restrictions. La Verne Police department will issue tickets if time limits are not followed.

Question Will accessibility parking be available?

Yes. Accessibility parking is available on a first-come, first-served basis. A valid DMV placard must be displayed.

Parking Lot A will be the designated accessibility parking lot on a first-come, first-serve basis. Individuals who need to be dropped off can utilize the drop-off location in front of Miller Hall on C Street and park in another area.

Question When do gates open?

Gates will open 60 minutes prior to the start of the ceremony.

Question What should guests expect for entry and security?

Guests should allow extra time for parking, walking to the stadium, and security screening. Gates will open 60 minutes prior to the ceremony.

Question What happens if it rains?

Commencement ceremonies are held rain or shine. Guests are encouraged to plan accordingly and check the Commencement website for any weather-related updates.

Question What is the Multicultural Graduation Celebration?

The Multicultural Graduation Celebration is a cultural recognition event honoring graduates from historically underrepresented communities. Participation is optional and open to all graduating students.

The Multicultural Graduation Celebration will take place on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at 9:30 a.m.

Question What is the Blessing of the Graduates (Baccalaureate)?

Blessing of the Graduates (Baccalaureate) is a multifaith, spiritually-inspired ceremony honoring our graduates. This will be an uplifting event featuring an inspirational keynote speaker, diverse readings and music, and a special blessing for each graduate (undergraduate and graduate students welcome).

The Blessing of the Graduates will take place on Friday, May 29, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. at the Church of the Brethren.

Question What are Hooding Ceremonies?

Hooding ceremonies are separate, college- or program-specific events recognizing graduate and doctoral students. Details will be shared by individual departments.

Question Where can I find information about Commencement Programs?

Commencement programs will be available digitally on the day of Commencement. Up to two physical programs will be mailed after Commencement to each graduate who has requested them on the participation/RSVP form.

Question Who receives an honor cord at Commencement?

Honor cords are only distributed to undergraduate students. A bachelor’s degree student must have taken at least 84 semester hours for letter grades and 44 semester hours in residence to be considered for honors. Honors at graduation are based on GPA according to the guidelines below:

Cum Laude (Honors) – a minimum GPA of 3.60
Magna Cum Laude (High Honors) – a minimum GPA of 3.75
Summa Cum Laude (Highest Honors) – a minimum GPA of 3.85

Students must earn the designated GPA in courses taken at the University of La Verne and in all coursework applicable toward the bachelor’s degree (all combined La Verne and transfer coursework).

Printing of Undergraduate Honors in the Commencement list will be based on the previous semester’s cumulative GPA. The posting of the honors to the student’s academic history and diploma will be based on the GPA at the time of degree posting.

Question What is the difference between University Honors and Departmental Honors?

University Honors are awarded based on a student’s cumulative GPA and institutional criteria and are recognized at Commencement with an honor cord. Departmental Honors are awarded by individual academic departments for outstanding achievement within a specific discipline.

Question Where can I purchase Graduation Announcements?

Graduation Announcements are available for purchase online through Jostens.

Question Where can I purchase a class ring?

Class rings are available for purchase online through Jostens.

Question Where can I purchase flowers, leis & bouquets?

Flowers, leis, and additional gifts will be available for purchase with debit and credit card only at the stadium entrance gates through The Commencement Group. Guests who place online orders in advance may pick them up on site on the day of the ceremony.

Question Will the University Bookstore be open?

Please refer to the University Bookstore website for current hours of operation. On Commencement day, the bookstore will host an on-site booth near the stadium offering a limited selection of items for purchase.

Question Which airports are closest to the University of La Verne?

The closest airport serving the University of La Verne is Ontario International Airport (ONT), located less than 30 minutes from campus.

Additional nearby airports include:

Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
San Bernardino International Airport (SBD)
John Wayne Airport (SNA)
Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR)

Travel time from these airports is approximately one hour, depending on traffic.

Question Are there hotels near the University of La Verne?

Local hotel accommodations are available in Pomona, Claremont, San Dimas, Diamond Bar, Chino Hills, and Montclair.

Nearby hotels include:

Sheraton Fairplex Suites & Conference Center – 601 W McKinley Ave, Pomona, CA 91768
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Pomona – 3200 W Temple Ave, Pomona, CA 91768
Hotel Casa 425 + Lounge – 425 W 1st St, Claremont, CA 91711
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Claremont – 555 W Foothill Blvd, Claremont, CA 91711

Frequently Asked Questions

Welcome to the University of La Verne Commencement FAQ page!

Congratulate Your Grad!