Are tickets required for commencement ceremonies and do my guests need to reserve seating?
How many guests may I invite?
Are pets allowed on the Commencement site?
Where does my student get announcements, class ring, diploma framing information, cap and gown information?
What about access and seating for the elderly, disabled and sun-sensitive guests?
Where can I get information about dining and lodging?
How soon do I need to make hotel and restaurant reservations?

Are tickets required for commencement ceremonies and do my guests need to reserve seating?

Tickets are NOT required to attend. Guests do not need to reserve seating.

How many guests may I invite?

To help maintain a high level of comfort and decorum, we request that undergraduate students in the College of Letters and Science ceremonies limit the number of guests to six.

Are pets allowed on the Commencement site?

Licensed dogs on campus ONLY. Dogs MUST be on leash no longer than six (6) feet. Dogs are not allowed inside buildings or stage area. Aggressive, unruly or excessively noisy dogs are subject to removal.

What about access and seating for the elderly, disabled and sun-sensitive guests?

Guests using wheelchairs, or for whom a long walk is difficult, should ask the parking attendants for direction to accessible parking. Inquire at the Commencement Information Tent by the upper entrance to the Faculty Club for help with wheelchair access. There is limited sun-shaded seating, so sun-sensitive persons should arrive early. Hats and sunscreen will be available for sale at the Bookstore tent.

Where does my student get announcements, class ring, diploma framing information, cap and gown information?

All of the above may be obtained from the UCSB Bookstore. The Bookstore will open a Commencement Graduation Center around March 3, 2010 where specific information on these items may be obtained. You can purchase Commencement announcements on-line at www.bookstore.ucsb.edu/graduation/grad_announcement.html.

Where can I get information about dining and lodging?

Make restaurant and hotel reservations early! Hotel information is available online at Santa Barbara Visitors Bureau. The Faculty Club, located right next to the Commencement site, serves a gourmet buffet for graduates and guests on both Saturday and Sunday from 11am to 2pm.

How soon do I need to make hotel and restaurant reservations?

Hotel and restaurant reservations need to be made NOW! Each ceremony lasts approximately 2 hours. Allow at least three hours from start of ceremony for restaurant reservations. For assistance with hotel reservations, call 800/793-7666 Hot Spots Reservations or 800/292-2222 Coastal Escapes. For a list of local hotels, motels and restaurants, you can visit Santa Barbara Visitors Bureau.