Class of 2026 Commencement Celebration
Claremont McKenna College is excited to honor the accomplishments of our graduates and their families! Our 78th Annual Commencement Events, honoring the graduates from Claremont McKenna College’s Class of 2026, will be held on Saturday, May 16, 2026 on the CMC Campus.
Questions? Please email events@cmc.edu.
2026 Commencement Schedule
Wednesday, May 6
| Time | Event |
|---|---|
| All Day | Last Day of Classes for Seniors |
Friday, May 15
| Time | Event |
|---|---|
| 8:30 a.m. | Commencement Rehearsal (Graduates only) | Arena, Roberts Pavilion (Mandatory for Graduates) |
| 1:00 p.m. | CMC 1Gen Celebration | McKenna Auditorium |
| 4:00 p.m. | Graduates and Families Reception | Mid Quad |
| 5:30 p.m. | Phi Beta Kappa Induction Ceremony | Marian Miner Cook Athenaeum (By invitation only) |
Saturday, May 16
| Time | Event |
|---|---|
| 10:30 a.m. | Brunch for Graduates and Families | Collins Dining Hall Advance purchase strongly recommended. $20 per person at the door. |
| 12:00 p.m. | Marquee Open for Ceremony Seating Note: There will be security checks at the entrance including bag inspections and metal detector stations. |
| 1:00 p.m. | Line-up for All Graduates | Arena, Roberts Pavilion |
| 2:00 p.m. | 78th Annual Commencement Ceremony | Pritzlaff Field Delight in the cheers of your classmates, family, and friends as you walk across the commencement stage to celebrate all of your accomplishments as a CMC graduate. |
| 4:00 p.m. | Reception for Graduates, Families, and Friends | Parents Field Enjoy champagne and light hors d’oeuvres at a reception with your classmates, family, and friends! |
Sunday, May 17
| Time | Event |
|---|---|
| 12:00 p.m. | All graduates must be fully moved out of their residence hall/apartment areas. |
What to Expect
This is an exciting day for the families and friends of our graduates. Find tips to help make the day more enjoyable.
Additional Information
The College is committed to ensuring that the Commencement Ceremony is safe, meaningful, and enjoyable. Find useful details about preparing for the ceremony and day-of.
Past Commencements
Access video, slideshows and articles about previous Commencement ceremonies at Claremont McKenna College.