Spring Ceremony Schedule
Graduate Division
Friday, May 16, 2025
6:00 PM - UC Merced Recreation Field
School of Social Sciences, Humanities and Arts
Saturday, May 17, 2025
9:00 AM - UC Merced Recreation Field
School of Engineering & School of Natural Sciences
Sunday, May 18, 2025
9:00 AM - UC Merced Recreation Field
Continue to check UC Merced email accounts for additional information and details.
Tickets and Seating
Tickets are required for admittance into the venue. Graduates will receive ticket details at Grad Fair. The venue will address any ADA concerns upon arrival.
These tickets are the property of UC Merced. Any unauthorized sale, duplication or use would be subject to referral to the Office of Student Rights and Responsibilities and potential restriction from participation in Commencement activities.
Weather
The spring ceremonies take place outdoors. Please check weather reports in advance to determine appropriate attire.
Arrival Time
Please arrive early and allow at least 30 minutes for parking, walking to the ceremony site and ticket scanning. Seating is first come, first served for ticketed guests. Guests must be seated prior to the start of the processional.
General and Accessible Parking
Graduates are allowed up to two vehicles for themselves and their guests. Accessible parking is available for guests with existing ADA parking placards or stickers on their vehicles, UC Merced does not issue ADA parking permits. Please arrive early to find appropriate parking as spaces are first come, first served.
Event Security
All guests will be subject to metal detector screening upon entry. Additional screening and bag checks may be required. To help expedite entry, please bring only essential items into the venue. Backpacks and large bags are not permitted. Small bags or clear bags are strongly encouraged. Please review the list of prohibited items below.
Prohibited Items
- The following items are not permitted inside the venue:
- Air horns, megaphones, speakers, or other noise-making devices
- Balloons, beach balls, inflatables, confetti, confetti cannons, or other items that may disrupt the ceremony
- Signs, banners, posters, or items with poles, sticks, or handles that may obstruct the view of others
- Umbrellas or other large items that could block sightlines
- Alcohol
- Tobacco products, vaping devices, or any type of smoking materials
- Illegal drugs or drug paraphernalia
- Weapons of any kind, including firearms and knives
- Tools or metal or wooden objects that could be used as projectiles
- Drones (UAS – Unmanned Aircraft Systems) or other model aircraft
- Animals, except for service animals assisting guests with disabilities
- Backpacks (diaper bags and medically necessary bags are permitted)
Any prohibited items found inside the venue will be confiscated.
Guests are also asked to silence their cell phones during the ceremony. For the safety and comfort of all attendees, please keep aisles and walkways clear and remain seated during the ceremony whenever possible.
