Mark your calendars for the May 2026 Commencement Ceremony on Saturday, May 16. The academic procession will begin at 9:30am and the ceremony will begin at 10am on the east steps of The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception.
Individual school and college diploma ceremonies will follow the Commencement Ceremony. More details will be posted on this site when they are available. Graduates who participated in the 2025 December Commencement Ceremony are also eligible to participate in the May 2026 Commencement events.
Alumnus Monsignor James Shea, president of the University of Mary will deliver the commencement address to The Catholic University of America’s Class of 2026. As a university president, teacher, evangelist, interpreter of culture, and preacher, Monsignor Shea is deeply committed to the education and formation of young people.
Nursing Pinning Ceremony, 9:30 a.m.
Venue: Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception
Athletics Senior Banquet, 3:00 p.m.
Venue: Great Room, 3rd Floor, Edward J. Pryzbyla University Center
Doctoral Hooding Ceremony, 6:00 p.m.
Venue: Heritage Hall
Phi Beta Kappa Induction, 10:00 a.m.
Venue: Caldwell Auditorium
Honors Convocation, 1:00 p.m.
Venue: Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception
Baccalaureate Mass, 4:00 p.m.
Venue: Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception
President's Reception, immediately following Mass.
Venue: Pryzbyla Patio and West Lawn
Commencement Exercises, 10:00 a.m.
Venue: The steps of The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception
The Procession will begin at 9:30 a.m..
College and School Diploma Ceremonies, immediately following the ceremony
Venues: More information to come
Regalia may be purchased at the University Bookstore located on the first floor of the Pryzbyla Center. If you are unable to visit The Cardinal Shop & Bookstore, please visit Oak Hall to order your cap and gown. A link to order your cap and gown will be available on this webpage soon.
The deadline for orders is Friday, April 24, 2026.
Regalia is required for all graduates.
Contact the Commencement team at cua-commencement@cua.edu if you have other questions concerning commencement activities.