Frequently Asked Questions

There is a distinct difference between graduation and commencement. Commencement ceremonies are held every spring semester, and are a way for Solano Community College to celebrate your academic achievements.

The semester of graduation refers to the term in which you petition for a degree or certificate. This is typically the semester in which you complete your degree or graduate certificate requirements.

Only students who have petitioned for a degree or certificate can participate in the commencement ceremony.

Students who were awarded degrees and/or certificates in the prior fall or summer, and those who petition in the spring, will receive a letter from the Student Development Office the first week of May.

This letter contains information about the ceremony, and a yellow participation card which must be returned to the Student Development Office.

Solano Community College takes great pride in our graduates, and we look forward to a commencement ceremony that can be enjoyed by all.

Graduates and guests are expected to conduct themselves with decorum and give proper respect to fellow attendees. Items that detract from the ceremonies, such as balloons, horns or noisemakers, are prohibited. Applause is welcome, but please refrain from exultations that may be taken negatively or detract from the procedings. Please remain in your seats until the ceremony concludes.

All graduation participants will be required to wear a black cap and gown. You may purchase your cap and gown in the Bookstore. The cost of the cap, gown and custom tassel is usually under $40, including tax. Please contact the Bookstore for their hours of operation at (707) 864-7000, Ext. 7111.

You will be walking on uneven grass at the Doc Hollister Stadium (Football Field). Please make sure you wear comfortable walking shoes. High heels are not recommended. Consider making arrangements for family members to hold extra items such purses for you. The ceremony is in the morning and it could be cool. Dress accordingly under your gown.

Graduation announcement information is available at the Bookstore.

A professional photographer will be available at Commencement. Pictures will be taken of all graduates, and proofs will be sent directly from the photographer. It will be your choice whether or not you wish to place any orders for your pictures.

Disabled persons parking will be available in specially designated sections of our parking lots, as well as a disabled and senior person drop off. Shuttle service to and from the the Doc Hollister Stadium (Football Field) will be provided for guests with limited mobility. Please visit the Location and Parking page for more information.

There will be deaf interpreters available and a limited number of seats for seniors and disabled persons.

Arrangements have been made to have floral bouquets available for sale. They may be purchased at the entrance to the Hollister Stadium beginning at 8:30am.

The number of guests that can attend the ceremony in the Doc Hollister Stadium is unlimited.

In case of rain, the event will take place in the Gymnasium located in Building 1700A and you may invite only two guests. You will be given two rain event tickets at the time you turn in your yellow participation card. Don't lose these tickets. No additional tickets will be issued. Additional guests may view the broadcast in the 1400 building.