Graduate Checklist
Countdown to Commencement: 10 Steps to Graduation Success
Congratulations, Class of 2025! To get ready for the big day, follow this step-by-step guide to graduation. The checklist covers everything you need, from applying to graduate and picking up your cap and gown to requesting tickets for your friends and family. We can't wait to celebrate with you during commencement weekend!
1. Apply to Graduate
All students must apply to graduate with the Registrar’s Office to participate in the commencement ceremony. Applications to graduate open Monday, January, 6, 2025.
2. Attend Grad Fair
Attend Grad Fair on Tuesday, March 4 and Wednesday, March 5 to pick up your cap and gown, take your grad portrait, and order your custom stoles! Student ID is required at Grad Fair for check-in and ticket pickup.
Grad Fair Events:
- Tuesday, March 4: 10:00am to 4:00pm
- Wednesday, March 5: 9:00am to 5:00pm
3. Request Commencement Tickets for Guests
Tickets are required for entry to Commencement on Saturday, May 24 and on Sunday, May 25. Student ID is required at Grad Fair for check-in and ticket pickup.
Ticket Pickup
Each registered graduate will receive up to 12 guest tickets. Tickets can be picked up during the following times:
- Tuesday, March 4th at the Grad Fair from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
- Tuesday, May 6th in Claeys Lounge at the Soda Center
Additional Tickets
Additional tickets can be requested through the Extra Ticket Request form. Graduates must be registered to participate in Commencement Weekend to receive extra tickets. The form will go live on Friday, April 25 at 9:00 a.m. and close on Friday, May 2. Ticket distribution will take place:
- Tuesday, May 6th in Claeys Lounge at the Soda Center
4. Apply for Grad Grounds Post-Commencement Reception Plot
Participate in this beloved Saint Mary's tradition, and host your friends and family on a reserved plot at Saint Mary's campus on graduation day.
Registration opens Wednesday, March 12, 2025 at 10:00 a.m.
5. Order Your Class of 2025 Mementos
- Campus Store: Alumni Gear & Grad Accessories
- Jostens: Class Jewelry, Diploma Frame, Personalized Announcements, Regalia and Accessories
- CollegeWear: Custom Stoles
6. Prepare to Cross the Stage
Learn how to wear your regalia, where to park, when to arrive, and more.
7. Celebrate at Commencement Weekend
You did it! Enjoy your day, and don’t forget to pick up your alumni license plate frame! Stop by the Alumni Association table next to the De La Salle statue during Grad Grounds.
8. Connect with the Alumni Network
Create your alumni record, attend an alumni event, and join the alumni group on LinkedIn.
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GaelConnect allows you to network with professional Gael Alumni and seek their career guidance and advice.
Your student account will be disabled in the next few months, so make sure to notify us of your new email address! Stay in the know about events, news, and opportunities and update your info.
- Attend an Alumni Event
We look forward to seeing you at one of the many campus and regional events we host each year.
9. Order Your Commencement Photos
Commencement photos can be ordered from using your proof code.
10. Connect with the Career Center
The Career Center provides assistance with resume reviews, job search strategies, and interview preparation to alumni free of charge. Schedule an appointment in or by sending an email to careers@stmarys-ca.edu.