It may feel far away, but graduation is quickly coming up. Spring commencement ceremonies will be held May 7-9 in Colonial Life Arena. We’ve compiled a roundup of deadlines, events and reminders graduates should be aware of before the big day.
Graduation deadlines
- March 13: Deadline to apply for spring 2026 graduation. Applications are available in Self Service Carolina.
- March 17-April 10: Commencement name pronunciation is available; let USC know how you’d like your name announced at graduation.
- March 17 at 10 a.m.: Guest tickets for commencement will open. Students who are approved to participate in the spring 2026 commencement ceremony will be invited to claim up to five guest tickets. Ticket requests will close on April 17.
- April 6: Deadline to order graduation regalia; this deadline is firm. Don’t miss it if you plan to participate in the May 2026 commencement ceremonies. Order online here.
- April 21: Additional guest tickets will be released if there are remaining tickets available for students to claim.
Countdown to graduation
- USC will host its annual ring ceremony on March 29. This is open to all who purchased and received a class ring in spring 2026.
- The Countdown to Commencement Fair will be on March 30 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Greene Street. Open to students who are graduating in May 2026 or December 2026. Stop by to chat with campus offices about tickets for graduation, how to order your cap and gown, and get connected with the alumni association and more than a dozen offices or partners designed to support students for graduation and life after graduation. Enjoy free food, lots of giveaways, a graduation photo station and more.
- University awards day will be Thursday, April 16. The annual awards ceremony often recognizes many senior students who have been nominated for awards. Visit the signature events website for more details.
- More upcoming events with details to be announced: Grad Bash, Last Night Carolina, Tassels and Taps, and Grad Fest. To stay up to date with announcements and events, be sure to visit the Graduation and Commencement website.
- While you’ll always be a Gamecock, now is a time to celebrate your success, reflect on your time at USC and prepare for your next steps. The Senior Success Team is here to aid you through the next steps after graduation. Make an appointment to meet with an advisor to chat or to get some extra help.
Forever to Thee
- Diplomas will be mailed on or before July 17 to the permanent address listed in your Self Service Carolina.
- Stay connected with USC and join the Alumni Association.
- However you choose to celebrate, take the time to honor your accomplishments with the people who mean the most to you.