Commencement Arrival Information

Hello Graduates!

The moment you've been waiting for is almost here – your Commencement Ceremony! As the big day approaches, we understand you might have several questions about what to expect. Don't worry; we've got you covered with all the details below, also available online in our Commencement Handbook.

Please take a moment to read through and ensure you have all the essential information!

SAFETY:
All guests and graduates will go through a security check upon entering the venue.   All safety and security information, along with full list of prohibited items, can be found on the commencement website for “Security & Safety”.  

ARRIVAL / CEREMONY START TIME (Graduates & Guests):
To make sure your day kicks off smoothly, we recommend planning ahead for travel, potential traffic, and check-in procedures. Arriving at least 90 minutes before the ceremony begins gives you and your guests plenty of time to settle in.  If you do not arrive in time to process into the ceremony venue at the start of the ceremony, there will be a delay in bringing you to an open seat.  Late-arriving guests will also be asked to wait before being seated and/or ushered to available locations. We want you to soak up every moment of the festivities – arrive early!

GRADUATE ENTRANCE INFORMATION:

  • GRADPASS: To ensure a smooth check-in process, please have your GradPass ready—either downloaded to your Apple or Google Wallet or printed directly from your Tassel account. Your GradPass will be used to announce your name as you cross the stage.

    • Please note: screenshots of your GradPass will not be accepted. You must present either the original digital version or a printed copy.

    • If you are experiencing issues accessing your GradPass, you may need to disable pop-up blockers on your device. Please refer to the step-by-step guide attached to this email for assistance with removing pop-up blockers on both Apple and Android phones.

  • GRADUATE CHECKIN GATE: Enter the venue through the Graduate Check-in Gate located at the South Sierra Lawn.  You’ll go through this security checkpoint before entering the venue.

  • SECURITY CHECK: To make the security check as smooth as possible, we kindly request that graduates arrive with their gowns draped over their arms. If you happen to forget and arrive with your gown already on, you’ll be asked to unzip your gown before entering to facilitate the security check and removal of any prohibited items. Your cooperation is greatly appreciated!

GRADUATE ATTIRE, ETIQUETTE, & BEHAVIOR
Please visit the commencement website for “Graduate & Venue Guidelines”.

GUEST ENTRANCE INFORMATION

  • GUEST ENTRANCES:  Guests will also go through a standard security check at any of the four entrance gates. For detailed venue maps and general directions to CSUN visit the commencement webpage for Directions and Maps.

  • GUEST TICKETING: Guests should have their printed tickets ready for scanning as they approach the entrance gate. For ticket printing, graduates can log back onto their ‘Tassel’ ticking account.

PARKING

  • Great news – parking fees for CSUN Graduation will be waived for all commencement ceremonies! For directions and parking information, visit the link provided here: CSUN Parking

ACCESSIBILITY:
Our commencement venue is fully accessible, meeting all ADA standards. However, please note there's some distance between parking lots/structures and the venue itself. Unfortunately, trams and transport vehicles won't be available to arriving guests. Graduates who need special accommodations should contact the Office of Student Development & Transitional Programs as soon as possible before their commencement exercise.

ALTERNATIVE VIEWING LOCATIONS (Non-ticketed Locations):
If your guests prefer a quieter spot away from the crowd or need relief from the weather, adjacent auditoriums/rooms without ticket requirements will be available. Ushers will be on hand to assist your guests in finding these areas. To learn more about these locations click this link here.

LIVE STREAMING OF THE CEREMONY:
Can't make it in person? No worries! The commencement ceremonies will be streamed live on YouTube. Click here to join the celebration virtually.

We can't wait to celebrate with you!