Spring Commencement 2026
4:00 p.m. - Baccalaureate Mass
Date: Saturday, May 16, 2026
10:00 a.m. - University Commencement Exercises
Please note, students should arrive at 8:45 a.m. (see below on where to gather). Procession will begin at 9:30 a.m. Guests should be seated prior to the start of the procession.
Venue: East Steps, Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception
Further information is available on the University’s Commencement page.
Busch School Reception
Immediately following the Commencement Exercises, all business students and their guests are invited to a reception on the West Portico Terrace behind the Basilica (Harewood Road side).
Logistics Questions
-
Are there tickets or RSVPs required for guests?
No, there are no tickets or RSVPs required for guests. We will email graduates to ask whether they plan to attend. -
What guests should I bring with me?
We recommend bringing immediate family, however, you are welcome to bring whomever you'd like. -
How do I get a cap and gown?
Regalia may be purchased online through Oak Hall. Please visit this website, https://oakhallcg.com/pages/catholic, to order your cap and gown.
If you are unable to order online, regalia will also be available to purchase through The Cardinal Shop & Bookstore on the first floor of the Pryzbyla Center.
The deadline for orders is Friday, April 24, 2026.
Regalia is required for all graduates. -
Where should I park?
We recommend using a ride services or taking public transportation if possible. If you are driving, the following locations will be open: Shrine Parking lot, DuFour parking lot or street parking along John McCormack Road. -
How should individuals with disabilities navigate?
There will be shuttles running for those who need assistance. Please see the accommodations page of the Commencement website for further details.
Schedule Questions
-
When and where should students report for the University Commencement?
All candidates for degrees are asked to assemble no later than 8:45 a.m. Candidates for master's degrees will muster on the East side of McMahon Hall (between McMahon and the Pryz). Candidates for baccalaureate degrees will muster on the North side of McMahon Hall (between McMahon and the lawn).
For additional information on the Commencement Exercises, please visit the University Commencement Page. -
When should I arrive at the Busch School ceremony?
Following the reception, students will line up for the Busch School diploma ceremony on the West Portico of the Basilica at 1:00 p.m. Guests will be ushered through the side doors into the Basilica, and the ceremony will begin at 1:30 p.m. -
Will there be a rehearsal for Commencement?
We encourage all students attending commencement to come for a rehersal at 12:45 p.m. on Thursday, May 14th. Please meet on the front steps of the Basilica near the circle drive facing Michigan Ave. We expect the rehersal to take an hour. -
What is the Inclement Weather Plan?
In the event of rain, students should report to Memorial Hall, downstairs in the Basilica, at 1:00 p.m. Guests may proceed to the Upper Basilica at 1:00 p.m. The Busch School diploma ceremony will start at 1:30 p.m. The reception and outdoor events will be canceled.
Disability Support Services
A request form is available here for students to complete for comprehensive consideration of accommodation requests for themselves and / or their guests, at least one week prior to the event.
We look forward to seeing you on May 16th for graduation!