Our ceremony will also be live streamed through USC’s event platform for those unable to attend. If you are planning to watch the event via live stream, please plan to navigate to the site a couple of minutes early to give yourself time to navigate to the Bovard College ceremony.
PLEASE NOTE:
Prior to entering commencement events, the university will screen people and bags, using security measures similar to those for attending athletic events at the Coliseum and before entering many other large venues.
A clear bag policy will be in place.
You should allow extra time travel to campus and/or park, go through security, enjoy campus, and navigate to our ceremony. There will be hospitality areas, a variety of places to sit, rest, and hydrate in the shade before and after the ceremony.
SCHEDULE
Q: What is the timeline for Commencement?
A: The Bovard College Master’s Ceremony will begin at 11:00 a.m. Students will be asked to line up in full regalia between 10:15 and 10:45 a.m. near the Epstein Family Plaza (E-Quad).
RSVP
Q: By when do I need to RSVP to the Bovard College Ceremony?
A: Students must RSVP through the Marching Order system by end of day Friday, March 1, 2024. Even if you will not be attending, please still RSVP and indicate that on the form.
CAP & GOWN INFORMATION
Q: How do I rent or purchase my cap and gown?
A: Students may rent or purchase regalia online starting in February by following the instructions here.
Q: How do I get my hood, and what color will it be?
A: A hood is included with your regalia rental order by indicating which degree you will receiving. Unless you purchase your hood, it must be returned. The hood color for USC Bovard College is white.
Q: If I have graduated from another USC school, can I wear my robe from that ceremony?
A: Yes, you may.
Q: Where and when do I return my rented regalia?
A: After the ceremony and reception, please return your rented regalia (excluding the cap and tassel) to the USC Bookstore (located just north of our reception area). There will also be return bins located throughout campus.
TICKETS
Q: Will we receive tickets for our guests to attend commencement?
A: The tickets that have been distributed will allow you to access campus on the day of the USC Bovard College ceremony (Friday, May 10th). Gates open at 8 a.m., and you will not need any additional tickets to attend the ceremony at 11 a.m. You can read more about ticketing here.
Please note that graduates will still need to bring a printed Grad Pass (through Marching Order) or be able to show it on their phone for the ceremony.
GUESTS
Q: What else do my guests need to know?
A: Make sure your guests know the location of the ceremony. Your guests should allow plenty of time to travel to campus and walk to the ceremony – about 60,000 people are anticipated to be on campus for Commencement.
PHOTOGRAPHY
Q: Will there be a photographer at Commencement?
A: Yes, there will be a photographer with USC Bovard College who will be capturing images of our students at both ceremonies. Those photos will be shared with students after the event. GradImages will also be taking photos of all students as they collect their diploma and exit the stage during the USC Bovard College ceremony. You may register with GradImages before the event to receive a discount on photo packages.
GUEST SPEAKER
Q: Who will be the guest speaker at the USC Bovard College ceremony?
A: We are very pleased to announce that Dr. Tiffany Danko will be the USC Bovard College commencement speaker.
Tiffany Danko is a professional in emergency management, maritime and homeland security, intelligence, and international affairs with nearly 30 years of applied experience. Currently at the rank of Rear Admiral, Danko has led multi-disciplinary organizations worldwide for the U.S. Coast Guard Reserve and has served in senior leadership and commanding officer roles.
DIPLOMAS
Q: When should I expect my diploma to arrive and will it arrive in a hard cover?
A: Diplomas are mailed 4-8 weeks after the conclusion of your final semester; they are mailed in a cardboard envelope sent via first class mail. Please log in to my.usc.edu and check in Oasis to verify that your name and permanent address are correct by March 15th.
Q: How much do I have to pay for the shipping of my diploma?
A: There is no cost for shipping; diplomas are mailed to the student’s permanent address on file. Local students may come to campus to pick up their diploma. Contact the USC Diploma Department at 213-740-7070.
ANNOUNCEMENTS, RINGS AND DIPLOMA FRAMES
Q: Where can I purchase announcements, rings and diploma frames?
A: Students can purchase announcements, rings and diploma frames online at the USC Bookstore. These are optional purchases.
MISC.
Q: What do I need to bring on Commencement Day?
A: You will need to bring your GradPass with you to the USC Bovard College Ceremony – you may either print a paper copy or save to your phone. We recommend taking a screenshot of the pass if you plan to bring it on your phone in case of connectivity issues.
Q: What if I am unable to attend commencement?
A: View the live stream of the 2024 ceremony here.
Q: How many times per year does commencement take place?
A: Commencement takes place once per year, in May.
Q: How much time will it take to exit campus after Commencement?
A: Allow approximately one hour to get off campus.
Q: Where can I find a map to navigate my way around campus?
A: This map indicates the location of USC Bovard College’s commencement ceremony.
Q: Are there any fees or costs associated with Commencement?
A: There are no fees for participating in commencement. You only need to rent or purchase your regalia. A class ring, announcements, etc. are optional.
Q: Can I bring my child/grandma/pet/etc. across the stage with me?
A: No, this is not allowed for liability reasons.
Q: What should I wear?
A: You will likely be walking around campus before and after graduation, so we recommend dressing for comfort. Part of the ceremony may require walking through grass, so keep that in mind when choosing shoes.
Q: When should I get to campus?
A: For the USC Bovard College ceremony, plan to arrive between 10:15 am and 10:45 a.m. to line up.
Q: What should I do with my personal items during the ceremony?
A: Please leave your personal items (purses, bags, backpacks, etc.) with your guests so that you do not have to wear/carry them walking into or during the ceremony. Ensure your guests are around early enough, so that you may give them your personal items before you line up.
Q: What if I have additional questions regarding commencement that are not answered here?
A: Please contact support@bovardcollege.usc.edu
We will share more information as it becomes available. Please refer to the university’s Commencement website for the most up-to-date information.
