CIAT graduates are welcome to attend either the in-person commencement ceremony on Saturday, July 11, 2026 in Escondido, CA OR they can attend our virtual ceremony. Both the in-person ceremony and the virtual ceremony will be livestreamed on CIAT YouTube’s Channel.
Date: Saturday, July 11, 2026
Time: 3 pm – 4:30 pm
Venue: California Center for the Arts, Escondido
Deadline to RSVP for both in-person or virtual ceremony: June 14, 2026.
The registration link will be emailed to eligible graduates from graduation@ciat.edu.
In-Person Ceremony
- Cap & Gown Required: All graduates participating in the ceremony must wear official CIAT academic regalia. Please order your cap and gown through your graduation hub.
- Guest Tickets: Up to 10 complimentary tickets.
- Live Stream: A live stream of the in-person ceremony will be available on the CIAT YouTube Channel. This ensures graduates and their families can celebrate together, no matter where they are in the world.
Virtual Ceremony
- Live Stream: A live stream of the virtual ceremony will be available for all virtual attendees on the CIAT YouTube Channel. This ensures graduates can be recognized without having to travel to California.
- Headshot & Quote Submission: All virtual attendees will need to provide a headshot and quote at the time of completing your RSVP form.
- Cap & Gown Optional: Not required, but virtual students can order a cap and gown through your graduation hub.
Honor Cords Recognition Program
CIAT proudly recognizes your achievements through our honor cords program. These distinctive cords display your hard work and will be provided to eligible graduates before commencement, so you can proudly wear them during the ceremony:
- In-Person Attendees: Honor cords will be distributed at the venue on the day of the ceremony.
- Virtual Attendees: Honor cords will be mailed to you prior to the ceremony.
Academic Honors (Degree Programs)
- Gold Cord: Summa Cum Laude (GPA 3.91-4.0)
- Green Cord: Magna Cum Laude (GPA 3.71-3.9)
- White Cord: Cum Laude (GPA 3.5-3.7)
Academic honors are awarded to degree program students based on final GPA calculations.
Additional Recognition
- Purple Cord: Perfect Attendance
- Red, White & Blue Cord: Military Affiliation
Graduation FAQs
What time do I need to check-in?
Graduate check-in begins one hour prior to the ceremony start time. Please plan to arrive early to allow time for parking, check-in, and line-up. We ask that you arrive and check-in no later than 2:00 pm.
What is the deadline to RSVP for the 2026 Graduation Commencement Ceremony?
The deadline to RSVP for the 2026 Graduation Commencement Ceremony is June 14, 2026.
How do I know if I am eligible to participate in the 2026 graduation commencement ceremony?
Any certificate and degree-seeking students who completed their program between August 2025 and August 2026 are eligible to participate.
What are the directions to the California Center for the Arts, Escondido?
Address:
California Center for the Arts, Escondido
340 N Escondido Blvd
Escondido, CA 92025
If you are driving from North or South San Diego via I-15:
- Take the Valley Parkway exit
- Head west on Valley Parkway toward downtown Escondido
- Turn right onto Escondido Boulevard
- The venue will be located on the right at 340 N Escondido Blvd
Public Transportation:
North County Transit District buses serve downtown Escondido. For route information and schedules visit www.gonctd.com
Will the 2026 graduation ceremony be livestreamed?
Yes! The in-person ceremony will be livestreamed on CIAT’s YouTube Channel, allowing family and friends who cannot attend in person to watch the celebration. A link to the livestream will be shared closer to the event date.
How do I receive my graduation regalia?
If you RSVP and indicate that you plan to attend the in-person event, you will receive instructions on how to purchase your regalia, which will be mailed directly to you.
Can I decorate my cap?
Yes! We encourage you to get creative and decorate your cap to celebrate your achievement.
Will I receive my diploma/certificate at the ceremony?
No. Graduates will receive a diploma/certificate cover during the ceremony. Your official diploma or certificate will be issued after successful completion of your program.
Will there be a professional photographer?
Yes! CIAT will ensure that a professional photographer is available to capture your special day.
Does the venue have any restrictions on what my guests can bring?
Yes! The following items are prohibited:
- Balloons
- Confetti
- Food
- Alcohol
Do my guests need to purchase or reserve tickets to the event?
No. Guest tickets will be provided at the venue at no additional cost.
Is there parking available at the venue?
Yes. Parking is available in public parking lots and structures surrounding the California Center for the Arts in downtown Escondido.
Is there a charge for parking?
Parking availability and pricing may vary depending on city lots and nearby structures. Guests are encouraged to arrive early to secure parking.
Is there ADA seating for myself or guests?
Yes. The venue provides seating and access in accordance with ADA accessibility guidelines.
What are the nearest hotels to the venue?
There are several hotels located within a short drive of the venue:
- SpringHill Suites by Marriott Escondido
- Holiday Inn Express & Suites Escondido
- Best Western Escondido Hotel
- Comfort Inn Escondido San Diego North County
- Hampton Inn San Diego / Escondido
We recommend booking accommodations early as summer travel in the area can increase demand.
What attractions does San Diego have to offer me and my guest(s)?
There are many attractions nearby for graduates and their guests to enjoy:
- San Diego Zoo Safari Park
- Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens
- Daley Ranch hiking trails
- Historic Downtown Escondido
- San Diego Zoo
- Balboa Park Museums
- USS Midway Museum
- Birch Aquarium at Scripps
What hashtags should I use to celebrate on social media?
We want to see your graduation moments! Share your photos from the big day and tag them with #CIATGrizzlyGrad. Let’s celebrate your success together!
Where can I order CIAT Alumni gear?
Show off your pride and shop the full alumni collection on the CIAT store here https://store.ciat.edu/product-category/alumni
