3/18: In-person commencement ceremonies in May to honor classes of 2020, 2021

USC has received permission from state authorities to host in-person commencement celebrations for the classes of 2020 and 2021.

The in-person ceremonies for undergraduate and graduate students will take place at the Coliseum twice a day from May 14-25.

Every graduate will be invited to one ceremony with their specific school or degree program cohort. Graduates will have the opportunity to cross the stage, hear their names read, receive their diplomas and have their photos taken while projected on stadium screens. Please note:

  • Density restrictions require graduates to have no more than two guests.
  • State guidelines currently limit access to the ceremonies to individuals currently residing in California. We are working with state officials to see if there is any way for out-of-state residents to attend the ceremonies.

A schedule with the time and date for each ceremony by school will be distributed once it is known how many graduates plan to attend. Eligible graduates — even those who cannot attend — should follow the instructions on the commencement page and register by April 1.

For those who cannot attend, ceremonies will be broadcast online. Every school will host a virtual celebration on May 13.

Due to distancing requirements, it will not be possible to hood doctoral candidates. Hooding ceremonies will take place at a future time.

Read President Carol L. Folt’s letter.