USC Commencement 2026: Graduation Dates, Schedule and Complete Guide

USC Commencement 2026 celebrates the achievements of thousands of graduates from the University of Southern California.

The Class of 2026 will gather at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum for the main ceremony, continuing a tradition that brings together the Trojan Family for this milestone celebration.

Overview of USC Commencement 2026

The spring semester graduation includes multiple ceremonies across the USC University Park Campus.

Academic school ceremonies honor graduates from each college and school, while cultural graduation celebrations recognize diverse student communities and their achievements.

International students, veterans, and first-generation college graduates receive special recognition during commencement week.

USC Commencement 2026 features the traditional Fight On celebration, cardinal and gold regalia, and the beloved Tommy Trojan statue serving as a backdrop for graduation photos.

Alumni network events connect new graduates with the extended Trojan community, combining academic tradition with modern celebration to create lasting memories for graduates and their families.

Expected attendance includes over 20,000 graduates receiving bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctoral degrees.

The PhD hooding ceremony provides special recognition for doctoral students completing their dissertation defense. Each graduate receives their diploma and joins the ranks of USC alumni worldwide.

USC Commencement 2026 Dates and Spring Ceremony Schedule

Main Ceremony Details

USC Commencement 2026 takes place during the spring semester 2026, typically scheduled for mid-May. The Main Stage Commencement ceremony occurs at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, the historic venue that has hosted USC graduations for decades. The specific date for USC Commencement 2026 will be announced in the USC fall 2025 academic calendar.

The main ceremony begins at 8:30 AM with processional music and the academic procession. Graduates march into the coliseum wearing their academic regalia, including the distinctive USC Shield embroidery. The ceremony includes:

• Invocation and national anthem performance
• Keynote speaker presentation
• Degree conferral
• Alma mater singing and traditional recessional

Academic School Ceremonies

Academic school ceremonies follow the main celebration throughout the weekend:

Saturday Events:

• USC Viterbi School of Engineering – Galen Center, afternoon
• USC Marshall School of Business – Bovard Auditorium, Sunday morning
• USC Price School of Public Policy – Expo Hall

Weekend Schedule:

• USC Annenberg School – Features media recognition and communication excellence awards
• USC Keck School of Medicine – Celebrates healthcare achievements and medical research
• USC Dornsife College – Recognizes liberal arts and sciences graduates
• USC Thornton School of Music – Includes live musical performances by graduating students

Special Ceremonies

The PhD hooding ceremony provides special recognition for doctoral students who have completed their dissertation defense.

This intimate ceremony typically occurs on Friday evening before the main commencement weekend. Faculty members place the doctoral hood on each graduate, symbolizing their entry into the academic community.

Pre-Commencement Activities

• Graduation rehearsal sessions for all participating students
• Cultural graduation celebrations throughout the week
• Trojan Family activities, including alumni receptions and networking events
• Student-athlete graduation ceremonies recognizing athletic and academic achievements
• Greek life graduation events for fraternity and sorority members

Digital Access

The schedule accommodates various time zones for livestream broadcast viewing. International families can watch ceremonies online through digital ceremony access, with recording options available for preserving graduation memories.

USC Commencement 2026 Tickets: Guest Registration and Distribution

Ticket Distribution Process

USC Commencement 2026 tickets are provided free through the online guest ticket distribution system.

Each graduate receives a specific number of guest tickets based on the ceremony venue capacity. The Main Stage Commencement at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum typically allows 4-6 guest tickets per graduate.

Registration Timeline

• Registration opens: 6-8 weeks before USC Commencement 2026
• Notification method: Email notifications with registration links
• Requirements: Graduate student identification numbers and ceremony selection preferences
• Variations: Academic school ceremonies may have different ticket allocations based on venue size

Additional Ticket Options

Guest ticket limits ensure fair distribution among all graduates. Families exceeding the ticket limit can request additional tickets through the waitlist system. Special accommodations exist for:

• Large families
• Military personnel
• Accessibility needs
• International families requiring pickup assistance

Ticket Collection

Pickup locations: USC bookstore, student union, and designated campus centers.

Requirements: Valid identification and confirmation numbers

Deadline: One week before the ceremony dates.

Late pickup: Available with advance notice

Digital Features

• Mobile access through the graduation ceremony app
• Electronic tickets reduce paper waste and offer convenient access
• QR codes enable quick venue entry and reduce wait times
• Real-time updates through the app

Additional Information

Parking information accompanies ticket distribution materials. Security protocols require guests to present valid identification and ceremony tickets. Health guidelines may include temperature checks or health screenings, depending on current public health recommendations.

USC Academic School Graduation Ceremonies 2026

Engineering Excellence

USC Viterbi School of Engineering graduation ceremony celebrates technical innovation and engineering excellence. The ceremony takes place at the Galen Center with approximately 2,000 graduates receiving degrees in computer science, electrical engineering, and biomedical engineering. Industry leaders serve as keynote speakers, addressing future technology trends and career opportunities.

Business Achievement

USC Marshall School of Business commencement honors business achievement and entrepreneurial success. Bovard Auditorium hosts the ceremony featuring MBA graduates, undergraduate business students, and executive program participants. Alumni network events connect graduates with successful business leaders and potential mentors.

Public Service Leadership

USC Price School of Public Policy degree conferral ceremony focuses on public service and policy leadership. The ceremony recognizes graduates entering government careers, nonprofit organizations, and public administration roles.

Distinguished policy experts deliver keynote addresses about current issues and future challenges.

Communication Excellence

USC Annenberg School graduation celebrates communication excellence and media innovation. The ceremony honors journalism, public relations, and communication students. Media industry professionals share insights about digital transformation and storytelling evolution.

Healthcare Dedication

USC Keck School of Medicine commencement represents healthcare dedication and medical research achievements. The ceremony includes MD graduates, PhD recipients, and medical research program participants. The white coat ceremony symbolizes professional commitment to healing.

Liberal Arts and Sciences

USC Dornsife College graduation ceremony encompasses liberal arts and sciences achievements. The largest academic school ceremony celebrates diverse academic disciplines, including psychology, biology, economics, and international relations.

Musical Excellence

USC Thornton School of Music graduation features live musical performances by graduating students. The ceremony combines academic recognition with artistic celebration, with student ensembles performing classical pieces, jazz compositions, and contemporary works.

Venue Information

• Bovard Auditorium: Medium-sized ceremonies with excellent acoustics
• Galen Center: Larger gatherings with modern facilities and accessibility features
• Expo Hall: Flexible space for special events and receptions

Each school features specific keynote speakers, honorary degree recipients, faculty recognition ceremonies, and networking opportunities tailored to their academic discipline.

USC Graduation Requirements and Diploma Process for Class of 2026

Participation Requirements

USC Commencement 2026 participation requires completion of all degree requirements by specified deadlines. Students must submit their graduation application through the USC student portal several months before their intended graduation date.

Application includes:

• Degree verification
• Academic clearance confirmation
• Ceremony participation preferences

Academic Clearance

• Transcript verification and final grade submission
• Completion of required coursework with satisfactory grades
• Resolution of incomplete grades before graduation eligibility
• Academic advisor review of degree requirements

Financial Obligations

Outstanding financial obligations must be cleared before graduation application approval:

• Tuition balances
• Library fines
• Parking tickets
• Emergency financial assistance available for students facing hardship

Degree-Specific Requirements

Bachelor’s Degree:

• Completion of major requirements
• General education courses
• Minimum credit hours
• Satisfactory academic progress and GPA requirements

Master’s Degree:

• Thesis or comprehensive exam completion
• Graduate committee approval for thesis-based programs
• Capstone projects for professional programs
• Internships or practical experience requirements

Doctoral Degree:

• Dissertation defense completion
• Successful defense before faculty committees
• Dissertation formatting and submission requirements
• PhD hooding ceremony participation

Academic Recognition

• Academic honors: Summa cum laude, magna cum laude, and cum laude distinctions
• Honor society membership: Including Phi Beta Kappa ceremony participation
• Dean’s list recognition: Semester-based achievement
• Graduation with distinction: Exceptional academic performance

Diploma Collection

• Ceremony: Graduates receive diploma covers during the ceremony
• Official documents: Mailed later to updated addresses
• Digital verification: Secure online access to degree information
• Electronic transcripts: Convenient sharing with employers and graduate schools

USC Commencement 2026 Venues and Campus Locations

Primary Venue

Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum serves as the primary venue for USC Commencement 2026. This historic stadium has hosted USC graduations for over 50 years, providing a grand setting for the Main Stage Commencement ceremony.

The coliseum accommodates approximately 80,000 attendees, ensuring adequate space for graduates and their families.

Campus Ceremony Locations

Bovard Auditorium

• Classic architecture and excellent acoustics
• Medium-sized ceremonies
• Comfortable seating and modern audio-visual equipment

Galen Center

• Modern facilities for larger academic school ceremonies
• Excellent sightlines and climate control
• Accessibility features and adjacent parking structures

Expo Hall

• Versatile venue for special events and smaller ceremonies
• Customizable space for receptions and cultural celebrations
• Modern lighting and sound systems

Iconic Photo Locations

Tommy Trojan Statue

• Iconic centerpiece for graduation photos
• Located in the heart of USC University Park Campus
• Landscaped gardens and memorial plaques surround the area

Traveler Statue

• Depicting USC’s mascot horse
• Located near the Coliseum
• Popular photo opportunity capturing Trojan spirit

Campus Gathering Spaces

Alumni Memorial Park

• Peaceful settings for family gatherings and reflection
• Memorial gardens, walking paths, and shaded seating areas
• Connects various campus buildings and ceremony venues

Hahn Central Plaza

• Central meeting point for families and friends
• Modern design elements and comfortable seating
• Information booths and vendor locations

Doheny Memorial Library

• Special events and receptions for honor society members
• Historic building with elegant settings
• Special exhibitions celebrating student achievements

Accessibility and Weather Considerations

• Accessibility accommodations are available at all venues
• Weather contingency plans include backup indoor venues
• Covered walkways connecting major campus buildings
• Emergency procedures for severe weather conditions

What to Expect at Your USC Commencement 2026 Ceremony

Ceremony Flow

USC Commencement 2026 begins with traditional processional music as graduates enter the ceremony venue. The academic procession follows established protocols:

1. Doctoral students leading the procession
2. Master’s degree recipients following
3. Bachelor’s degree graduates completing the procession
4. Faculty members wearing distinctive academic regalia

Academic Traditions

Academic Regalia Requirements:

• Cap, gown, and hood for graduate degrees
• USC Shield embroidery on all official graduation attire
• Cardinal and gold colors reflecting USC’s historic school colors

Tassel Turning Tradition:

• Occurs at the moment of degree conferral
• Graduates move tassels from right to left
• Symbolizes the transition from student to alumni status

Fight On Celebrations:

• USC song performances and crowd participation
• USC Marching Band musical entertainment
• Alma mater singing creates emotional connections

Ceremony Components

• Invocation and benediction for spiritual reflection
• National anthem performance honoring American values
• Guest speakers addressing achievement, service, and leadership
• Platform party introductions recognizing university leadership

Photography and Recording

• Personal cameras and video recording are allowed during most portions
• Professional photographers capturing key moments
• Social media guidelines encouraging sharing with official hashtags
• Live streaming with multiple camera angles and professional production

Digital Access Features

• Closed captioning and multiple language options
• International viewer participation through online platforms
• Recording options for preserving graduation memories
• Multiple camera angles and professional production quality

Ceremony Duration and Logistics

• Main ceremony: 2-3 hours depending on the number of graduates
• Academic school ceremonies: Generally 1-2 hours
• Restroom breaks and refreshment areas available
• Weather considerations may affect outdoor ceremony timing

The ceremony concludes with the recessional as graduates exit in reverse order of entry, followed by post-ceremony celebrations.

USC Commencement 2026 Speakers and Honorary Degree Recipients

Keynote Speaker Selection

USC Commencement 2026 keynote speaker announcements will be made in early 2026, featuring distinguished leaders from business, government, arts, and sciences.

The selection committee chooses speakers who inspire graduates and reflect USC’s commitment to innovation and service. Past speakers have included Nobel laureates, business executives, and public service leaders.

Honorary Degree Recipients

The university typically awards 3-5 honorary degrees during commencement ceremonies. Recipients include:

• Distinguished alumni
• Community leaders
• Individuals who have made significant contributions to society
• Leaders representing excellence in their respective fields

Student Speaker Recognition

Student speakers are chosen through competitive application processes based on:

• Outstanding academic achievement and leadership qualities
• Academic performance and community service
• Public speaking ability
• Themes relevant to the graduating class experience

Awards and Recognition

Trojan Achievement Awards:

• Academic excellence and research accomplishments
• Leadership and service contributions
• Diverse talents across various disciplines
• Student organization involvement

Special Recognition Ceremonies:

• Veteran graduation recognition
• First-generation college graduate celebrations
• International student recognition
• Cultural community achievements

Faculty and Alumni Speakers

• Distinguished professors and researchers at academic school ceremonies
• Department chairs and deans provide academic context
• Alumni speakers sharing career insights and professional wisdom
• Professional organization-sponsored speaking opportunities

Selection Process Considerations

• Diverse perspectives and backgrounds
• Various industries, cultures, and career paths
• Gender and ethnic diversity
• Community input for meaningful speaker choices

Additional Recognition

• Faculty retirement acknowledgments and emeritus appointments
• Long-serving professor recognition for educational contributions
• Staff member acknowledgments for supporting student success
• Service awards celebrate the entire university community

Celebrating USC Trojans: Graduation Events and Activities

Cultural Community Ceremonies

Latino Graduation Celebration

• Honors Hispanic and Latino graduates
• Cultural traditions and bilingual presentations
• Community recognition and family participation
• Cultural values and academic success emphasis

African American Graduation Ceremony

• Recognizes achievements within the Black student community
• Cultural performances and community leader speakers
• Historical context and future leadership discussions
• Alumni connections and mentorship opportunities

Asian Pacific Islander Graduation Events

• Celebrates diverse Asian cultures and academic achievements
• Cultural performances and traditional foods
• International student participation
• Professional networking in various industries

Native American Graduation Recognition

• Honors indigenous students and cultural heritage
• Traditional ceremonies and elder blessings
• Tribal representations and cultural presentations
• Educational achievements within cultural contexts

Alumni and Professional Networking

Trojan Network Graduation Events

• Connections with the extensive USC alumni community
• Industry-specific gatherings and mentorship programs
• Career development sessions and professional guidance
• Regional alumni chapter events nationwide

Professional Development Opportunities

• Alumni association membership benefits
• Career advancement resources
• Industry networking events
• Professional organization connections

Student Organization Celebrations

Greek Life Graduation Events

• Fraternity and sorority member recognition
• Leadership accomplishments and community service
• Social connections and lifelong friendships
• Academic achievement celebrations

Honor Society Recognition

• Academic excellence acknowledgments
• Discipline-specific achievements
• Leadership and service contributions
• Professional development opportunities

Digital and Social Media Engagement

USC Trojans Class of 2026 Social Media Campaigns

• Official hashtags for sharing graduation experiences
• Student-generated content showcasing achievements
• Digital recognition and community connections
• Lasting memories through digital platforms

Family and Community Celebrations

Graduation Gift Ideas

• USC merchandise and commemorative items
• Alumni association memberships
• Professional development resources
• Career-related materials and jewelry

Family Celebration Activities

• Restaurant reservations and special graduation menus
• Campus dining facilities for convenient meals
• Hotel recommendations near USC University Park Campus
• Transportation connections and concierge services

Post-Ceremony Reception Options

• Campus facilities and local restaurants
• Private event spaces and Alumni Memorial Park
• Indoor and outdoor gathering options
• Customized catering services

Long-Term Community Engagement

Trojan Family Gatherings

• Shared experiences and future opportunities
• Long-term relationship development
• Community service opportunities
• Giving back to USC and local communities

Academic Regalia and Graduation Attire for USC Commencement 2026

Rental and Purchase Options

USC Graduation Cap and Gown Rental

• Convenient access through the USC bookstore
• Online ordering begins several months before the ceremony
• Standard packages include cap, gown, and tassel
• Graduate students receive additional hood rental

Regalia Requirements by Degree Level

• Bachelor’s degree: Black gowns with mortarboard caps and black tassels
• Master’s degree: Colored hoods representing specific fields of study
• Doctoral degree: Distinctive gowns with velvet trim and colorful discipline hoods

USC-Specific Features

USC Shield Embroidery

• Appears on all official graduation regalia
• Represents school pride and institutional identity
• Reflects the university’s commitment to excellence
• Meets official university standards

Cardinal and Gold Regalia Specifications

• Follows traditional academic dress codes
• Incorporates USC’s distinctive colors
• Reflects university heritage and school spirit
• Quality materials for comfort and durability

Practical Information

Rental Costs and Options

• Undergraduate packages: $50-75
• Graduate packages: $75-125
• Purchase options available for ownership preference
• Payment plans and financial assistance are available

Fitting and Pickup Services

• USC bookstore fitting appointments
• Online sizing guides for measurements
• Exchange options for sizing adjustments
• Multiple pickup locations and schedules

Dress Code Guidelines

Graduate Requirements

• Official regalia must be worn throughout the ceremony
• Proper sizing and appearance maintenance
• Care instructions for the ceremony day quality

Guest Attire Recommendations

• Professional business or cocktail attire
• Comfortable shoes for extensive campus walking
• Weather-appropriate clothing considerations
• Photography-friendly solid colors

Special Recognition Regalia

Academic Honors Accessories

• Honor cords, stoles, and medallions
• Achievement and organizational membership recognition
• Honor society’s distinctive colors and symbols
• Academic distinction enhancement

Professional Care and Maintenance

• Steaming services for wrinkle removal
• Proper hanging during transport and storage
• Care instructions for ceremony participation
• Photography-friendly appearance tips

Return and Care Procedures

• Specified return timeframes after the ceremony
• Good condition requirements (cleaning not required)
• Late return and damage fee policies
• Proper handling throughout graduation day

USC Commencement 2026 FAQs

USC Commencement 2026 Checklist

Pre-Ceremony Preparation (Several Months Before)

Application and Clearance

• Complete the graduation application through the USC student portal
• Verify all required information is accurate and current
• Confirm academic clearance and completion of degree requirements
• Clear all financial obligations (tuition, fines, parking tickets)

Regalia and Materials

• Order official academic regalia from the USC bookstore
• Schedule a fitting appointment if needed
• Confirm regalia pickup date and location
• Review academic regalia requirements for your degree level

Ceremony Week Preparation

Essential Items to Gather

• Official academic regalia (cap, gown, hood if applicable)
• Valid personal identification
• Ceremony tickets and confirmation numbers
• Comfortable shoes for walking across campus
• Weather-appropriate clothing underneath regalia
• Camera for photos and a small bag (compliant with security restrictions)

Logistics and Timing

• Plan arrival 90 minutes before the ceremony start time
• Arrange transportation and parking reservations
• Download the graduation ceremony app for real-time updates
• Confirm specific ceremony instructions and arrival requirements
• Share emergency contact information with family members

Day of Ceremony

Arrival and Check-in

• Arrive at the designated time with all required materials
• Complete security screening at venue entrance
• Locate procession lineup area and check in with ceremony staff
• Review the ceremony program and processional order

Photography and Celebrations

• Identify optimal locations for family photos
• Plan post-ceremony activities and gathering locations
• Coordinate with family and friends for photos at the Tommy Trojan statue
• Arrange professional photography services if desired

Post-Ceremony Activities

Diploma and Records

• Collect the diploma cover during the ceremony
• Update mailing address for official document delivery
• Set up digital diploma verification access
• Access electronic transcripts through the USC alumni portal

Alumni Engagement

• Join the USC alumni association and network events
• Connect with professional organizations in your field
• Participate in ongoing Trojan Family activities
• Consider community service and giving back opportunities

Emergency Preparedness

Important Contacts and Resources

• Medical assistance is available at all venues
• Lost and found services for missing items
• Customer service representatives for ceremony questions
• Weather and emergency updates through the graduation app

Final Preparations

• Confirm ceremony attendance and family arrangements
• Review event schedules and transportation timing
• Prepare for the emotional significance of this milestone achievement
• Allow extra time for all graduation-related activities

Digital and Technology Preparation

App and Online Access

• Download the graduation ceremony app for essential information
• Set up mobile ticket access and QR codes
• Configure push notifications for important announcements
• Test livestream access for distant family members

Social Media and Documentation

• Plan social media sharing with official hashtags
• Prepare family and friends for photography opportunities
• Consider professional photography services for lasting memories
• Arrange recording options for preserving graduation memories

This checklist ensures graduates are fully prepared for their USC Commencement 2026 ceremony, from initial application through post-graduation celebrations.

The milestone represents years of hard work and dedication, with family and friends gathering to celebrate this significant achievement and support future endeavors.