Graduate Information

After years of dedication and hard work, your Commencement day is almost here. Congratulations on reaching this milestone. Review important details below to prepare for rehearsal, arrival and participation in the ceremony.

Graduates celebrate Commencement at Cal State Monterey Bay, proudly displaying their diplomas during a joyful outdoor ceremony that honors achievement, community and transformative education.

Rehearsal Information

Rehearsal is not mandatory, but it is highly recommended for all graduates who plan to participate in the ceremony.

Friday, May 15, 2026
10 a.m. or 1 p.m.
Meet at the Rabobank Stadium Gate off Maryal Drive

Rehearsal will walk graduates through the processional route and ceremony flow so you know what to expect on Commencement day.

Arrival Details

The Student Assembly area is located at Rabobank Stadium.

Graduates are expected to arrive by 8 a.m., dressed in full regalia, including cap, gown and tassel. Upon arrival, enter the designated queue and be prepared to show and scan your Stage Pass. Your Stage Pass is required for entry.

Be sure to:

  • Print your Stage Pass in advance

  • Download it to your phone’s wallet

  • Fully charge your phone and increase screen brightness for scanning

A graduate drop-off zone is located at the front of Parking Lot P off Maryal Drive. No graduate or guest parking is permitted in Lot P.

Restrooms and mirrors will be available for last-minute touch-ups. Commencement officials will provide instructions for lining up and walking in the procession from Rabobank Stadium to the Rodeo Arena.

Transportation and Parking

Expect heavy traffic and plan to arrive early. Allow at least 45 extra minutes for parking.

Parking is free and available on a first-come, first-served basis. No permits are required. Follow directional signage and instructions from parking personnel to the designated Commencement lots.

There is no guest drop-off area. Graduate drop-off is located in Parking Lot P off Maryal Drive. No parking is permitted in Lot P. Rideshare drop-off is available at the circle drive in front of Sherwood Hall. Drop-offs on North Main Street are prohibited and subject to citation.

View the Commencement Parking Map.

View the Commencement Shuttle Schedule.

Carpooling is encouraged to help support a smooth and sustainable event.

Assembly Information

Graduates participating in Commencement should plan to arrive at the Rabobank Stadium by 8 a.m., dressed in complete regalia, including cap, gown and tassel. The student assembly area is located at Rabobank Stadium, where Commencement officials will provide directions for lining up and preparing to walk in the procession to the Arena.

Please review the following important details before you arrive:

  • Enter the queue upon arrival at Rabobank Stadium.
  • Bring your printed Stage Pass and download it to your mobile wallet. A Stage Pass is required for entry and must be shown and scanned. Make sure your phone is fully charged and screen brightness is turned all the way up.
  • A graduate drop-off zone is available at the front of Parking Lot P. Please note that no graduate or guest parking is permitted in Lot P.
  • Bathrooms and mirrors will be available for last-minute touch-ups.
  • The Campus Store will be on hand for last-minute purchases, though graduates are strongly encouraged to plan ahead.

Commencement Day Schedule and Program

Plan your Commencement day with important details on the full event schedule, ticketing information, parking and transportation, accessibility services and venue guidelines at the Salinas Sports Complex.

Student at Commencement holding diploma

Welcome to Our Legacy

Alumni and Visitor Center signage

CSUMB Alumni Association

Take advantage of your free CSUMB Alumni Association membership.

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CSUMB graduates walking and waving to the crowd

Pay it Forward

Continue to connect with Cal State Monterey Bay and help other students get to the finish line.

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New CSUMB teacher graduate waving to the crowd

Attend GradFest

GradFest is a one-stop shop for graduating seniors. Students can purchase caps and gowns, order Commencement invitations, have graduation portraits taken and socialize with other graduates.

Learn More
CSUMB graduates walking to their seats during the commencement event

Questions? We’re Here to Help.

Our offices are located in Building 29 at CSUMB, 100 Campus Center, Seaside, CA 93955.

Graduation Fees and Deadlines

View our graduation fees and deadlines.

Commencement

To learn more about Commencement, contact us at: