Now is the time for George Mason University, friends, and family to come together and celebrate all that you have achieved. Attend University Commencement and your Degree Celebration to commemorate your achievements.
Ready, Set, Graduate!
Your final semester at George Mason is going to go faster than you expect. Make sure you complete all the steps required for graduation with our handy Graduation Checklist. We'll keep adding information as it becomes available, so check back regularly!
Get the Paperwork Done
Applications to graduate are due by February 22, 2026.
First, students must confirm their eligibility. Run your degree evaluation on PatriotWeb.
Then, complete and submit your graduation application through the Office of the University Registrar. Applications are due by February 22, 2026.
If you miss this deadline, you'll need to complete a late graduation application form. Certain processes may be delayed if you apply late, so make sure you meet that initial deadline if you intend to graduate this winter!
If you are a student with a confidential hold on your account, and you wish to have your name printed in the graduation program alongside your peers, you'll need to submit the proper paperwork to the Registrar's office by February 22, 2026
You must apply to graduate to be eligible to claim ceremony tickets or receive graduation communications.
Attend the Grad Fair
Attend the Spring Grad Fair to purchase graduation regalia. Caps, gowns, stoles, cords, announcements, diploma frames, and more will be available at this Johnson Center event.
Grad Fair will be March 3, 4, and 5 in Dewberry Hall.
Save the Date
Tickets will be required for both Commencement and degree celebration ceremonies. Ticket information will be available here at a later date. You must apply to graduate to be eligible to claim your tickets or receive graduation communications.
University Commencement
Thursday, May 14, 2026 at 9:30 am
EagleBank Arena
What is Commencement?
University Commencement is the official graduation ceremony including degree conferral by President Washington, remarks by the both the presidential invited guest speaker and the selected Class of 2026 student speaker, with music provided by a George Mason University student ensemble. All George Mason Spring graduates and Summer Bachelor’s and Master’s graduates are invited to attend. All Doctoral students will be recognized and hooded individually at the Commencement Ceremony. Other graduates will be asked to stand as a group when their major is called for recognition.
Degree Celebrations
May 14, 15 and 16, 2026
What are Degree Celebrations?
Separate Degree Celebrations honor the different schools' and colleges' Bachelors and Masters graduates. These graduates are individually recognized and photographed as they cross the stage. The events also featured guest speakers from similar fields.
If you are a George Mason graduate from a previous semester looking to participate in a spring graduation ceremony, please email gmuevent@gmu.edu for guidance.
Please Note
Security measures will be in place at all ceremonies.
Graduates will need a Tassel Stage pass to check in.
All graduates and guests will go through weapons detection systems.
See EagleBank Arena's policies for more information on bag policy and prohibited items.
If you have questions, please contact the Office of University Events (gmuevent@gmu.edu or call 703-993-2853 between 9am-5pm M-F).
Congratulations on your degree and we look forward to seeing you at this important and celebratory experience for everyone!
Go Patriots!