Please review the FAQs below for answers to questions you may have. Questions not addressed below can be directed to commencement@pacific.edu, or the individual school Commencement Coordinators:

College of the Pacific, cop.commencement@pacific.edu
Conservatory of Music, conservatory@pacific.edu
Benerd College, benerd@pacific.edu
Thomas J. Long School of Pharmacy, pharmacyevents@pacific.edu
School of Engineering and Computer Science, soecsevents@pacific.edu
Eberhardt School of Business, jnavarro2@pacific.edu
School of Health Sciences, shsevents@pacific.edu
McGeorge School of Law, mcgeorgealumni@pacific.edu
Dugoni School of Dentistry, sf_deansoffice@pacific.edu

Information is subject to change.

Is cap and gown regalia required for the Commencement or Diploma and Hooding ceremonies?

Yes, university approved regalia must be worn. To purchase regalia, you will find details on the Commencement Shopping page.


Is a hood required for my ceremony?

Hoods are not required for the all University Commencement and Degree Conferral ceremony. All graduates, Bachelors, Masters and Doctorate, require a hood at their Diploma and Hooding ceremonies.


When and where do I purchase my Regalia?

Regalia may be purchased online or at the Commencement Grad Fair in either Sacramento or Stockton. For more information, please visit Commencement Shopping page.

Students graduating from the Dugoni School of Dentistry or the McGeorge School of Law should contact their Commencement Coordinators at:

Dugoni School of Dentistry, kpatchett@pacific.edu
McGeorge School of Law, mcgeorgealumni@pacific.edu


How do I know which color Tassel and Hood to order?

The online purchase process will ask you to select your degree earned and the correct tassel and hood will be included in your regalia package.


I forgot/lost my tassel or stole. What do I do?

You may stop by the Bookstore to purchase these items. Quantities are limited and may not be available on Commencement Day.


I qualify for special honors at graduation. Does Pacific provide honor cords?

Departments and programs may provide additional recognition to graduates by distributing honor cords. To learn if your department provides honor cords, please contact the department chair or your professor.


I have earned all University Latin honors (cum laude, magna cum laude, summa cum laude). How will I be recognized?

Graduates receiving a bachelors degree who have confirmed eligibility for these honors at time of printing will be designated in the Commencement program.

These honors are contingent upon final grade point average calculations at the completion of all relevant degree requirements. The official list of graduates and honors awarded is maintained by the university registrar.

What is the difference between the all University Commencement and my School’s Diploma and Hooding ceremony?

The President, Provost and deans will present the graduates and confer degrees at the all University Commencement ceremony. Remarks will be given by the Commencement speakers and the Order of the Pacific will be awarded. Distinguished faculty awards and honorary doctoral degrees are presented as well as the recognition of the 50th reunion class.

During the School Diploma and Hooding ceremony, graduates will have the opportunity to process across the stage, hear their name announced, receive their diploma covers and have photos taken by a professional photographer.


I am graduating from a program based at the Sacramento/San Francisco campuses, how can I find out what my campus program is doing?

Graduates from all our various programs and campus locations are welcome to participate in the May 11 Commencement. Please also watch for news from the dean of your school for information about your Diploma and Hooding ceremony and other special events specific to your program or school.


How long are the ceremonies?

Commencement and Diploma and Hooding ceremonies vary, but most are approximately 60-90 minutes in length.


Can family and friends attend the Commencement ceremony?

Yes! Family and friends are welcome and encouraged to attend. Seating is available on a first come, first served basis.


Will tickets be required?

No, tickets are not required. Seating is available on a first come, first served basis.


Is there accessible seating?

Yes, there is a designated area for accessible seating on the paved center walkway; additional seating in that area is designated for one attendant. We encourage guests to arrive early. There will be specific drop-off zones for guests with special needs.


Is there a limit on the number of guests I can bring?

No, you may bring as many guests as you like. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis.


Can I bring my dog or other pet if the event is outside?

Only Certified Service Animals are allowed at the Commencement and Diploma and Hooding ceremonies.


What should I wear to the all University Commencement and my Diploma and Hooding ceremony?

Celebratory attire is always suggested. Uneven surfaces such as stairs, concrete paths and lawn areas are common on campus. Late spring weather is variable. Typically, the month of May is cool in the morning and very warm in the afternoon. We also recommend sunscreen for our outdoor ceremonies.


Where do I park?

On-campus parking is available and Public Safety Officers will direct traffic on the day of commencement. Shuttles will be in service, and available at any marked campus shuttle stop. Carpooling is recommended due to possible traffic delays.

We suggest you park in the first available spot you find. Wear comfortable shoes as some lots are located on the opposite side of campus from the event. Download a map here, or view the interactive digital map


Is accessible parking available?

Special parking arrangements have been made for guests with accessibility needs. These vehicles will be directed to these locations by Public Safety officers. You are required to have a state-issued Accessible Parking placard to take advantage of this parking.


How much does it cost to park?

Parking is free but extremely limited. You can utilize our free shuttles from designated parking locations.


Can I bring and refill my water bottle on campus?

Yes! There are many water refilling stations on our campus. As part of Pacific’s commitment to sustainability, we encourage everyone, graduates and guests, to bring a refillable water bottle. Learn more about our efforts to create a campus culture committed to advancing a sustainable future here.


Can I bring signs, balloons, noise makers, or other celebratory items to the ceremony?

The following is a list of prohibited items at Commencement and Diploma and Hooding Ceremonies:

  • Coolers and containers
  • Signage of any kind
  • Balloons
  • Plastic or metallic confetti
  • Packages (e.g., gifts, boxes)
  • Large umbrellas
  • Tobacco and e-cigarettes
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Weapons
  • Fireworks
  • Noisemakers

For safety reasons, all bags are subject to search by University Police.

Is there accessible seating?

Yes, there is a designated area for accessible seating on the paved center walkway; additional seating in that area is designated for one attendant. We encourage guests to arrive early. There will be specific drop-off zones for guests with special needs.


Is accessible parking available?

Special parking arrangements have been made for guests with accessibility needs. These vehicles will be directed to these locations by Public Safety officers. You are required to have a state-issued Accessible Parking placard to take advantage of this parking.


Are wheelchairs available for use at Commencement?

The university does not provide wheelchairs. However, you are able to rent them at these and other local businesses:

Ability Access | 209. 944.7427 (ask for Bruce or Jaime) or email abilityaccessllc@yahoo.com

Medical Market | (408) 266 2369 | gomedicalmarket.com


Who do I contact if I have a special need or accommodation?

Please contact the Commencement Coordinator for your school at:

College of the Pacific, cop.commencement@pacific.edu 
Conservatory of Music, conservatory@pacific.edu
Benerd College, benerd@pacific.edu
Thomas J. Long School of Pharmacy, pharmacyevents@pacific.edu
School of Engineering and Computer Science, soecsevents@pacific.edu
Eberhardt School of Business, jnavarro2@pacific.edu
School of Health Sciences, shsevents@pacific.edu
McGeorge School of Law, mcgeorgealumni@pacific.edu
Dugoni School of Dentistry, sf_deansoffice@pacific.edu

How do I apply to graduate?

If you have questions about applying for your degree, please contact the Registrar’s office at registrar@pacific.edu. After submission, if you would like to make a change to your Application for Degree (date, term, name or diploma address), please contact the Office of the Registrar directly.


How do I register for Commencement?

By the end of February, the Office of the Registrar will reach out to undergraduates to confirm if they will participate in Commencement and Diploma and Hooding Ceremonies. Please watch for this email message and check your spam folders regularly. Graduate students will register for Commencement when they complete their Application for Degree.


I won’t finish until Summer 2024. Can I still participate in the Commencement and Diploma and Hooding Ceremonies?

Yes. Please contact your School’s Commencement Coordinator for inclusion in the Commencement and Diploma and Hooding Ceremonies. Please note: Inclusion in the Commencement Program reflects both actual and potential degrees completed for the 2023-2024 academic year. The official list of degrees completed is maintained by the University Registrar.


I would like to change my Commencement attendance status or register for Commencement and graduation. How do I do this?

In mid-February, the Office of the Registrar will message all those who completed their degrees in December 2023 and those who are on track to be eligible for degree completion in Spring 2024 and Summer 2024 to double check your ceremony attendance status. If you did not receive this message, please email registrar@pacific.edu

Office of the Registrar-Stockton 
209.946.2135
registrar@pacific.edu 
Knoles Hall, 1st Floor

You can review and submit your application for graduation through MyPacific. For instructions on how to apply for graduation, please visit the Office of The Registrar. If you would like to make a change to your graduation information (date, term, name or diploma address), please contact the Office of the Registrar directly.


I have not completed all the requirements of my program to graduate in Spring or Summer 2024. However, I would like to be at the graduation ceremony with my classmates. I plan to graduate in Fall 2024. Can I still participate in the Commencement and the Diploma and Hooding Ceremonies?

All students are welcome to participate in the May 11 Commencement event at 9 a.m.

Due to the unique programs at the following schools, students should contact their Commencement Coordinator directly regarding your Diploma and Hooding Ceremony.

Dugoni School of Dentistry, pr@pacific.edu
School of Health Sciences, shsevents@pacific.edu
McGeorge School of Law, mcgeorgealumni@pacific.edu

For all others, if you are applying to graduate in the Fall, you will be included in the subsequent Spring/Summer commencement ceremony. If you would prefer to participate in the commencement ceremony in the Spring/Summer prior to your Fall graduation, you must petition your school.

Please contact the Commencement Coordinator for your school:

College of the Pacific, cop.commencement@pacific.edu
Conservatory of Music, conservatory@pacific.edu
Benerd College, benerd@pacific.edu
Thomas J. Long School of Pharmacy, pharmacyevents@pacific.edu
School of Engineering and Computer Science, soecsevents@pacific.edu
Eberhardt School of Business, jnavarro2@pacific.edu

When can I expect my diploma to arrive?

The Registrar’s Office mails diplomas to the address filed with your application to graduate after students are approved to graduate, approximately 12 to 16 weeks after the term ends. If your address changes, it is your responsibility to inform the Office of the Registrar at 209.946.2135 or registrar@pacific.edu.


How do I find my photos from my ceremony?

Photos are taken by our photography vendor, GradImages. Text “Grad24” to 888-299-0978 for more information or go to GradImages.com to view the professional photos taken of your grad. Browse through digital, print and gift options to find the package that works best for you.


How do I join the Pacific Alumni Association?

On behalf of the Pacific Alumni Association and its more than 80,000 members around the world, welcome to the Pacific Alumni family! You became Tigers the first day you stepped on campus. You are now a Tiger for life!

Your time as a Tiger is really just beginning, and that is why the Pacific Alumni Association is here. We connect new graduates with alumni throughout the world, keep you informed on what’s happening back on campus and are always ready to welcome you home at the Alex & Jeri Vereschagin Alumni House. Stay in touch to learn about upcoming events and reunions by keeping your contact information up-to-date. Find out more about your free lifetime membership in the Pacific Alumni Association. Congratulations, and Go Tigers!