Graduate Information

This information is important to help ensure a smooth and enjoyable commencement experience.

Ceremony Location

Your commencement ceremony will take place at:

Emil & Patricia Jones Convocation Center
Chicago State University
9501 S. King Drive
Chicago, IL 60628

Ceremony Information

Graduates should plan to arrive by 9:45 a.m. to line up for the processional.
Graduates do not need a ticket to participate in commencement.
All guests must have a ticket to be seated, including children ages 2 and older.
Children are not allowed to sit with graduates or accompany graduates on stage
Late-arriving graduates will not be permitted to participate in the processional and will be seated toward the back. When your college is called, you may walk to the stage with your group; however, you must return to your assigned seat after receiving your diploma.
Please remove your regalia from its packaging prior to commencement day and follow the provided instructions for removing any wrinkles from your gown.
Cell phones should be silenced and remain off during the ceremony.
Backpacks, concealed weapons, and firearms are not permitted in the convention center.
At the conclusion of the ceremony, graduates must remain seated and should not leave the ceremony floor until directed. All graduates are expected to remain seated throughout the ceremony unless instructed otherwise by the commencement marshals or the master of ceremonies.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How can students, staff, and faculty stay updated?

The best way to stay informed is by regularly checking your Chicago State University email. Important updates and announcements are primarily communicated through email.

2. Will the event be livestreamed?

Yes. A live webcast will be available on Chicago State University’s website at csu.edu/csutv on Commencement Day.

3. What is the difference between graduation and commencement?

Graduation is the process of completing all degree requirements and submitting a graduation application. A separate application is required for each degree earned at CSU.

Commencement is a formal ceremony that celebrates your achievement, and participation is optional. Participating in the ceremony does not mean your degree has been officially awarded.

4. If I walk across the stage, does that mean I have earned my degree?

No. Only students who graduated in December of the previous year will have their degrees officially conferred by the time of the ceremony. Spring and summer applicants may participate in commencement, but their degrees will be awarded after all requirements are verified.

5. When will I receive my diploma?

Diplomas are mailed approximately 12 weeks after the end of the semester in which you graduate. You will receive a notification via your CSU email once your diploma has been shipped. Please ensure your contact information is up to date in CSU X-Press.

6. I missed the graduation application deadline. Who should I contact?

Please contact your Academic Advisor for guidance.

7. Where do I pick up my regalia?

Regalia will be shipped directly to your home. If you selected “ship to school,” it will be available during Commencement Countdown events. If you miss the ordering deadline, please contact the Provost’s Office at provost@csu.edu.

Please note: Regalia will not be distributed on Commencement Day.

8. When does Commencement take place?

Commencement will be held on Saturday, May 14, 2026, at 10:45 a.m.

9. How early should I arrive?

Graduates should arrive at least 60 minutes prior to the start of the ceremony.

10. Where should I park?

Parking is available in several locations around campus. Download the campus map to plan your arrival.

11. Does my child need a ticket?

Yes. Children ages 2 and older are required to have a ticket.

12. How long is the ceremony?

The ceremony will last approximately two and a half hours.