When do I need to apply for Commencement 2026 Participation?
The 2026 commencement participation form will be email to all students in either December or early January.
For Doctorate Candidates Only
Program completion dates for doctoral candidates participating in commencement:
- May 1, 2026 – still eligible to walk in the ceremony but doctoral candidate’s name and dissertation title will not be listed in the commencement program.
Important note: Please be aware that a candidate’s program may have more stringent deadlines requiring that candidates not only defend, but turn in their completed dissertations to the library by a specific date to participate in the ceremony. Please check with Academic Affairs to ensure you meet the required deadlines for participation.
It’s the day of Commencement. Where do I go, and when?
The Commencement ceremony will take place at the San Diego Civic Theatre (1100 3rd Ave, San Diego, CA 92101). Students must check in no later than 12:00 pm in the Plaza to the West (right) of the Theatre. We highly encourage students to arrive by 10:30am.
What time should my guests arrive?
The Theatre will open at 12:00pm for guest seating. We ask that all guests be in their seats by 1:00 pm, so that the ceremony can begin promptly at 1:30 pm.
Do my guests need tickets for Commencement?
All guests 2+ years of age and older will be required to have a ticket. We will share how many guest tickets each graduate receives, closer to the date.
Children 2 years of age and younger are not required to have a ticket.
Seating will not be assigned and is available on a first-come, first-served basis. More info on seating at the Civic Theater can be found at http://sandiegotheatres.org/civic-theatre-seating-chart/
Where can I order Commencement diploma frames?
Diploma Frames can be ordered on-line.
- Diploma Frames: https://aiu2.universityframes.com/
*** Please note that Diploma frames are non-refundable.
What if my guests or I need disability seating and/or assistance?
If you or your guest(s) require accommodations, please email your Campus Director.
San Diego: Michelle Elghardgu michelle.elghardgui@alliant.edu
Online: Grant Gordon grant.gordon@alliant.edu
Are there any items that I need to bring on the day of Commencement?
You are required to bring your regalia: cap with tassel, gown and, for doctoral graduates only, your hood.
Will there be any photographs taken of me?
Yes. Photographs will be taken of each graduate as they receive their diploma/hood and after they leave the stage by Grad Images. Students will receive an email following Commencement regarding how to order photos online. Guests will not be permitted to leave their seats to take photos during the ceremony.
How do I order my regalia (cap and gown)?
The regalia site isn’t live yet. We will email all graduates once the site becomes live.
I received my regalia but am missing the tassel. Who do I contact?
Rob Templin
robtemplin.gpa@gmail.com
Where do I return my regalia?
The regalia is yours to keep and does not need to be returned.
Will there be rehearsals?
No. Rehearsals aren’t held for any Commencement activities.
Where can I store personal belongings during Commencement?
There is no secure place for your personal belongings. If you choose to bring personal items, please give them to your guests to hold onto before the ceremony begins. In order to keep the ceremony as distraction-free as possible, all phones must be put on vibrate or turned off. Thank you in advance for your cooperation.
Are degrees presented at the Commencement ceremony?
No. At the ceremony, you will receive a diploma cover but not your actual diploma.
When will I receive my degree?
It depends on when you complete your degree process. Once you complete your degree requirements you should receive it 6 weeks from that date. Please be sure your correct address is on file with the university to ensure that you receive your diploma in a timely manner.
What if my name or address has changed since I submitted my graduation application?
Please email commencement@alliant.edu and we will be able to update your form for you.
Where do I park?
Please plan to arrive early, so you are not late for the ceremony. There are more than 15 parking garages located within .2 miles of the theatre. The closest parking is located at:
Civic Theatre Parking
1100 3rd Ave, San Diego CA 92101
Distance: 0.04 Miles 3rd & B
301 B St., San Diego CA 92101
Distance: 0.05 Miles Civic Center Plaza
1200 Third Ave, San Diego CA 92101
Distance: 0.08 Miles
We strongly encourage you to use public transportation or other transportation services such as Uber and Lyft.
The San Diego Trolley (Blue and Orange lines) stop within feet of the San Diego Civic Theatre (Civic Theatre station).
Vendor Information
Pre-Order Grad Leis
Leilanis Leis
Website: https://leilanisleis.com/
Pre-Order Customized Sashes, Logos
LogosZ Company
619.208.4680
www.logoszcompany.com
Day of Commencement
For any questions regarding a Graduation Regalia, announcements, and diploma frames please contact:
Rob Templin
robtemplin.gpa@gmail.com
For any additional questions, please email commencement@alliant.edu and we will respond to you within 48 hours.