We\u2019ll share several updates between now and then. In the meantime, here are three things YOU can do to begin planning for the weekend:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Bookmark the schedule of events<\/a>\u00a0for Commencement Weekend. The schedule will continue to be updated throughout the spring.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Keep an eye on your mailbox! The Class of 2026 Baccalaureate Committee is sending a letter this month\u00a0inviting families to contribute to the festivities<\/a>, and printed announcements for Commencement will be mailed in April.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- If you have a co-parent who did not receive this email, they can\u00a0update their contact information<\/a>\u00a0now to receive the most up-to-date information from our team.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\nCommencement Weekend FAQs<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Do families need tickets, and where should guests sit?<\/strong>
No tickets are required, and there is no limit on the number of guests graduating seniors may invite to Commencement. Commencement takes place on the Coram Library Terrace on the Historic Quad, rain or shine.<\/p>\n\n\n\nIs Commencement accessible for guests with mobility issues?<\/strong>
Yes, accessible parking and drop-off areas will be available, along with accessible seating on the Historic Quad for both Baccalaureate and Commencement. Ushers will be available to assist.<\/p>\n\n\n\nHow do students receive their cap, gown, and diplomas?<\/strong>
Students may pick up their Commencement regalia at the Bates College Store during regular store hours on May 28\u201330. No advance ordering is required, and regalia (cap, gown, and tassel) is provided at no cost. Because grades and Latin honors are finalized after Commencement, diplomas will be mailed in early June, and graduates will receive their diploma cover when they cross the stage.<\/p>\n\n\n\nWill there be a professional photographer during the ceremony?<\/strong>
Yes, photographers will photograph each graduate as they receive their diplomas. Photo proofs will be sent to graduates approximately two weeks after Commencement.<\/p>\n\n\n\nWhat time does the livestream begin?<\/strong>
Livestream coverage will begin at 9:30 a.m., with the ceremony starting at 10:00 a.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- Keep an eye on your mailbox! The Class of 2026 Baccalaureate Committee is sending a letter this month\u00a0inviting families to contribute to the festivities<\/a>, and printed announcements for Commencement will be mailed in April.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/parents\/files\/2026\/03\/Commencement-2026-900x300.webp\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"