Commencement
Congratulations, Class of 2026!
Date: Monday, May 18, 2026
Time: 9:00 AM (Ceremony will last approximately two hours)
Location: Zellerbach Hall
Reception: Immediately following the Ceremony at Lower Sproul Plaza
Dear Graduating Students,
Please carefully review the following information and share this guide with your guests.
1. REGISTRATION & PROGRAM
Registration is now closed. If you missed the deadline, you are still welcome to participate and walk across the stage; however, your name will not appear in the printed program. Please follow the "Instructions for Graduates" section below for day-of check-in.
2. TICKETS
- Graduates: You do not need a ticket. Your cap and gown serve as your entry authorization.
- Guests: Tickets are REQUIRED for all guests. No entry will be permitted without one.
- Purchasing: Tickets are $15 each (limit 8 per student) and can be purchased online here.
- Important: Tickets are non-refundable and will be emailed four days before the event. You may print them or show them on a smartphone.
- Security: All bags are subject to search. Everyone entering Zellerbach Hall will be wanded for security purposes
3. PARKING & TRANSPORTATION
We strongly encourage carpooling or public transportation, as campus parking is limited and first-come, first-served.
- Campus Shuttle: Graduating students and guests may use the free Bear Transit campus shuttle.
- UC Berkeley Parking: Available at the Lower Sproul Garage (Bancroft Way) for a $12 flat rate (Debit/Credit only; no cash).
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Please refer to https://pt.berkeley.edu/special-events/department-commencement for more information. Please note that our department does not manage event parking.
- Public Parking: Available at the Telegraph-Channing Garage (rates vary).
4. ACCESSIBILITY
- Parking: Limited ADA-accessible spaces are available on a first-come, first-served basis for those with valid DMV placards. See this campus map for more information about accessible parking locations.
- Seating: Please arrive early. Zellerbach staff will assist with ADA seating.
- Wheelchairs: Zellerbach Hall does not provide wheelchairs or walkers. Guests with limited mobility are strongly encouraged to bring their own devices to navigate from the drop-off area to the theater
- See here for information about accessibility from Disability Access and Compliance
5. PHOTOS & DIPLOMAS
- GradImages: Professional photographers will capture you as you receive your scroll. There is no obligation to purchase.
- Souvenir Scrolls: You will receive a souvenir scroll during the ceremony. Official diplomas are mailed by the Registrar approximately four months after the term ends. More information on diplomas, graduation verification, etc. can be found on the Office of the Registrar website here.
6. LODGING
- Information on lodging near Berkeley’s campus, and other local accommodations, can be found at Visit Berkeley.
- For more information on Berkeley campus tours, maps, and directions, please contact UC Berkeley Visitors Services.
If an agreement is not reached between the union and the UC system before May 14th, you and your guests should anticipate seeing strike activities on and around campus. Picketing is expected at a few primary intersections, such as Bancroft Way and Telegraph Avenue, and it is possible that there will be a picket line in front of Zellerbach Hall during our event. The UC Office of the President provides this website with updates related to labor negotiations.
We are sharing this information with you now so you are not caught off guard upon arrival. This is all we know at this time. Our commencement ceremony is scheduled to proceed as planned. We will notify you if there are any changes to our ceremony and the reception that follows.
8. COMMENCEMENT DAY INSTRUCTIONS FOR GRADUATES
Arrival: You must arrive at the north side of Zellerbach Hall (between the Hall and the Cal Alumni House) no later than 8:00 AM.
- Check-In: Go immediately to the check-in tables to receive your Name Card.
- Do Not Lose Your Card: You must hand this card to the name reader when you cross the stage.
- Line Up: Staff will direct you by major. The first person in each line will carry the major's banner.
- Processional (9:00 AM): You will be led into the theater and directed to specific seating. Do not change your seat.
- Crossing the Stage:
- When your major is called, staff will guide you to the left side of the stage.
- Hand your card to the reader, walk to the center to receive your scroll, and be congratulated by faculty.
- A photographer will take your photo as you cross.
Recessional & Reception: After the ceremony, staff will direct you out of the hall toward the reception at Lower Sproul Plaza for light refreshments.