Frequently Asked Questions
- The university is postponing the May 15, 16, and 17 graduation ceremonies until we can ensure the safety and security of our students and their families. We advise families not to make arrangements to come to the campus. We are actively looking at alternatives to celebrate our graduates in an appropriate manner.
Please note that commencement is NOT being cancelled. It is being postponed to a later date. Also, know that this decision will not affect the timing of degree completion. Degree conferral will be governed by the completion of the academic work for the relevant degree.
We understand that commencement is an important part of the Cal Poly Pomona experience and we want to honor our student’s significant milestone. While the formal pomp and circumstance will not take place in May, we will work to create an experience that honors the commitment and sacrifice made by you and your family. When we announce the new schedule and dates it will provide enough notice for graduates and guest to plan to attend the ceremonies. We ask for your patience and understanding as we continue to find solutions during these unprecedented times.
Commencement items will continue to be available online at broncobookstore.com/gradcenter . The Bookstore offers ship-to-home services and in-store pick-up for your convenience. Due to new developments, pick-ups will be on hold until further notice.
Please keep everything in its original packaging and maintain a receipt for possible future returns. Bookstore’s current policy is to provide a full refund up to the start of the first commencement ceremony.
Due to the postponement of graduation ceremonies, the Bronco Bookstore's policy is to provide a full refund up to the start of the first ceremony for all unopened regalia items with a receipt.
Due to new developments, Bookstore will remain closed until further notice. To assist student community, please view broncobookstore.com/faq.asp? to provide you with responses to common questions.
- It is highly recommended to purchase your cap and gown in advance for proper fitting. Limited quantities and sizes of caps and gowns will be available at the Campus Center Marketplace, two hours prior to each ceremony.
- Official Cal Poly Pomona caps and gowns are the ONLY outer attire allowed for graduates. It is not an all-weather garment. The attire is all black, plan accordingly for cool clothing underneath gown.
Parking permits are not required. Although, carpool is highly recommended due to limited parking during large ceremonies.
Participants in commencement ceremonies should be in the designated check-in/line-up area located at corner of University Drive, and Mansion Lane (across from bldg. 9), one hour prior to all ceremonies. Please refer to ceremony schedule on commencement home page. Approved participation pre-printed reader cards will be provided at check-in. You will have the opportunity to provide pronounciation of your name, along with email address to send you photo proofs. Check-in at registration tents according to last name, complete reverse side of card, then line-up by major. Hold on to your card and provide to professional reader on stage. Please note students approved to participate in Early Commencement, applied late for Spring graduation and/or lost their reader card will not have their honors read.
All students check-in one hour prior to ceremony at the corner of University Drive/Mansion Lane (accross from bldg. 9). All ceremonies are held at the University Quad. All bags are subject to search.
Parking for guests with disabilities is located in Lot "C" and "F8". Please display your Disabled Parking Placard.
Graduation refers to the term in which you have officially and successfully completed all of your graduation requirements. You must apply for the term in which you plan to graduate through your Student Center in BroncoDirect. Once grades are posted, your record will be evaluated and if all requirements are met, your degree will be awarded.
The Commencement ceremony is often referred to as "Graduation," but in reality there is a difference. Commencement is a ceremony and celebration for students projected to successfully complete all of their graduation requirements by the end of spring semester, or those that completed the prior summer, fall or winter. You will not receive a diploma at the Commencement ceremony. Confirmation of degree completion will not take place until official grades are posted.