What to Expect at Commencement

Graduating student posing with their family members in front of the Dignity Arch

What You Need to Know

Whether you are a graduating student or a family member or guest, here's everything you need to know to celebrate this momentous occasion at San José State University.

Students posing for a selfie

For Graduates

Deadlines and actions for graduating students.

Parents posing for a photograph with their graduating Spartan

For Visitors

Information about visiting our campus and region.

Mother posing with her graduating student

For Guests

Logistics on safety and guest accommodations.

Graduating Spartans in the Event Center at Commencement

About Commencement

Learn about how we celebrate your graduate.

Students posing for a selfie

For New Alumni

You've Graduated, What Now? From Career fairs to bootcamps and networking events, there are many wonderful opportunities and resources that you can take advantage of as a new alumnus of SJSU!

Graduating Student Information

Registration and Tickets

How to join your college's Commencement ceremony and secure tickets for your guests.

Academic Regalia

What to wear to your college's Commencement ceremony, how to secure it in advance and where to get it.

Day-of Commencement

How to check-in, where to go and how to troubleshoot other issues like name-reading.

Conduct

Graduating student conduct expectations at Commencement.

Visitor Information

Campus Map

Explore the interactive campus map in advance of your visit to SJSU and use it on your phone during your visit to navigate to Commencement festivities.

Travel and Lodging

Information for out-of-town visitors to San José.

Discover SJSU

Make the most of your visit and maximize your time spent celebrating with your graduating Spartan.

Transportation

San José State sits at the nexus of public transit in the South Bay, making getting to and from campus an ease without driving and parking stress.

Parking

If you choose to drive to SJSU for Commencement, get all the information about parking in our garages.

Guest Logistics

Safety

Your safety while visiting our campus is a top priority. Download the free, official campus safety app Spartan Safe to report any issues you experience or observe during Commencement. Available to all guests on all mobile devices.

Security

Find about what you can and cannot bring to Commencement.

Conduct

Visiting families and guests' conduct expectations at Commencement.

Accessibility

Request accommodations if you have mobility constraints or need additional assistance to attend Commencement. San José State University welcomes and accommodates all guests and upholds the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

How to Celebrate Commencement

About

Learn more about what Commencement is and how San José State University celebrates your graduates.

Grad Book

Make and give a free gift for your graduate with a custom digital grad book with personalized messages and images.

Amenities

Get professional photography, food and merchandise for this festive occasion and to celebrate your graduate in style. 

Livestreams

Can't join us in-person? Watch Commencement ceremonies live and on-demand.

Celebration Events

Departments, support programs and affinity centers or groups may hold separate celebration events for students and guests.