As we approach our 2025 commencement, we’re filled with pride and excitement. This ceremony marks not just the end of your academic journey, but the beginning of a new chapter filled with possibilities.
Your hard work and perseverance have brought you to this moment. Whether joining us in person or virtually, your achievements will be celebrated, and your potential recognized.
CIAT remains committed to your success beyond graduation. As you step into the next phase of your career, remember that you’ll always be part of the CIAT family.
Thank you for being an integral part of the CIAT family. The future is bright, and we can’t wait to see what you’ll accomplish next!
Mark Your Calendar and Stay Informed!
Date: Friday, July 25th, 2025
Time: 6:00 PM — 7:30 PM
Location: Joan B. Kroc Theater
Address: 6611 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92115
Our 2025 Commencement will feature both in-person and virtual components, allowing all of our graduates to participate in this special event.
In-Person Ceremony
- Taking place at the Joan B. Kroc Theater – we are so excited to host all graduates that are able to attend in-person!
- All in-person attendees are required to purchase a cap & gown here. The deadline for ordering caps and gowns is June 25th, 2025.
- Each graduate will receive 4 complimentary tickets.
- Additional tickets will be available for purchase – details to be announced.
Virtual Ceremony
- Live stream of the in-person ceremony will be available for all graduates attending virtually – details to be announced.
- This will allow our graduates and their families who may be tuning in internationally to participate, regardless of location!
- All virtual attendees will need to provide a headshot and quote at the time of completing your RSVP form.
When RSVPing, in-person attendees must submit their number of guests 0-4. Max 4 guests. If you have a special exception request concerning guests, please contact Student Services by emailing studentservicesteam@ciat.edu.
[RSVP HERE – REQUIRED FOR ALL ATTENDEES]
Academic Regalia
All graduates participating in the ceremony must wear official CIAT academic regalia. Please order your cap and gown through our partner, KeyPlus:
[ORDER YOUR CAP & GOWN HERE]
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 students to wear during 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)
Additional Recognition
- Purple Cord: Perfect Attendance
- Red, White & Blue Cord: Military Affiliation
We’ll make sure eligible graduates receive their honor cords before the big day, so you can proudly display your achievements as you walk across the stage. Academic honors are calculated using final GPAs and are awarded to degree program students.
Commencement Ceremony FAQs
What time do I need to check-in?
We ask that you arrive and check-in no later than 5:00 pm.
What is the deadline to RSVP for the 2025 Graduation Commencement Ceremony?
The deadline to RSVP for the 2025 Graduation Commencement Ceremony is July 1, 2025.
How do I know if I am eligible to participate in the 2025 graduation commencement ceremony?
Any certificate and degree seeking students who completed their program between 09/02/2023 and 8/16/2025 are eligible to participate.
If I already attended the previous virtual graduation commencement, can I still attend this in-person ceremony?
Yes! We encourage you to also attend the in-person ceremony.
When will I receive my diploma/certificate?
Your diploma or certificate will be mailed after 90 days after you have fulfilled all program completion requirements. Once all clearances are confirmed, your diploma or certificate will be prepared and sent to you without delay.
What are the directions to the Joan B. Kroc Theatre?
If you are driving to the venue from north San Diego via I-15 South:
- Follow signs for I-8 East
- Exit 11, head right on the ramp for Alvarado Road toward Lake Murray Blvd
- Turn right onto Alvarado Road toward Lake Murray Blvd
- Turn left onto 70th Street
- Turn right onto University Ave
- Left on President’s Way
- Make left into Kroc parking lot
If you are driving to the venue from south San Diego via I-15 North:
- Exit 2B, head right on the ramp for CA-94 East
- Exit 7, head right on the ramp and follow signs for Massachusetts Avenue
- Turn right onto Massachusetts Ave
- Turn left onto University Ave
- Make left into Kroc parking lot
If you are taking public transportation:
The Metropolitan Transit System buses 7, 10 and 852 serve stops here. For MTS fare and schedule information visit www.sdmts.com.
Can I decorate my cap?
Yes! We encourage you to get creative and decorate your cap.
How can my family and friends watch the virtual ceremony?
A link to the live stream will be provided to all graduates prior to the ceremony. This link can be shared with family and friends.
What should I wear to the ceremony?
Graduates should wear their cap and gown. You can order that here. Business casual dress underneath is strongly encouraged.
Will professional photos be taken at the ceremony?
Yes, a professional photographer will be present. Information on accessing and purchasing photos will be available after the ceremony, free of charge.
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?
Yes! Please reserve tickets by RSVPing at this link.
Is there parking available at the Joan B. Kroc Theatre?
Yes! There is plenty of parking located in front of the venue and in the surrounding area.
Is there a charge for parking?
No! There is no charge for parking.
Is there ADA seating for myself or guests?
Yes! When you RSVP, please be sure to indicate if you or a guest(s) have ADA accommodations.
What hashtag should I use on social media?
We encourage you to use #CIAT2025Grad to share your celebration on social media platforms.
What are the nearest hotels to the venue?
San Diego has many options for hotels in the surrounding areas:
El Cajon
Hotel Circle
La Mesa
What attractions does San Diego have to offer me and my guest(s)?
San Diego has many attractions for you and your guest(s):
USS Midway
Balboa Park Museums
Birch Aquarium
Cabrillo National Monument
Old Town Historic Park
Little Italy
SeaWorld
San Diego Zoo
San Diego Safari Animal Park
Contact Support
Have questions about commencement? Contact Student Services!
