General Information

When is New Student Convocation 2025?

Tuesday, February 18, 2025, at Bovard Auditorium on the University Park campus. Doors open at 3:15 p.m. and the program begins at 4 p.m. The event is expected to last no longer than 1 hour. We will be hosting a reception immediately following the ceremony with pizza and refreshments.

What is New Student Convocation?

New Student Convocation is the official welcome to all new students and their parents, signifying their entrance into the Trojan Family. The event marks the students’ entrance into our academic community, formally bestowing the rights, privileges, and expectations to the Class of 2028, incoming transfer students, graduate students, and doctoral candidates who begin in the spring of 2025.

Will the ceremony be livestreamed?

Yes, it will be streamed on the day of the event on our virtual platform.

Do students and guests have to register for Convocation?

Yes, registration information was sent out via email. If you did not receive an invite to register, you may do so at: www.usc.edu/esvp (code: Trojans25)

A QR code to access campus will be sent via a confirmation email a few days prior to the event to those who have registered to attend. All guests who enter campus will need to present the QR code on their mobile device to be scanned for entry. Faculty, staff, or student attendees may scan/tap their USCard in lieu of the QR codes.


Ticketing

Will I need a ticket to attend Convocation this year?

No, you will not need a ticket to attend Convocation, but you will need to register to attend the event. All registered attendees will receive a QR code that will allow them access to campus.


Parking

Where should I park?

For hosted parking, enter McCarthy Way Structure at USC McCarthy Way and Figueroa Street and follow the directions below.

Guest Parking Instructions

Here’s how to obtain a ONE-DAY Digital Parking Pass at USC for Tuesday, February 18th :

  1. Registration Link/QR Code: Please register no earlier than 1-2 days prior to your event & click here: https://www.offstreet.io/location/0SGANDOS
  2. Vehicle License Plate: Your License plate is your permit. No paper pass needed.
  3. Parking Confirmation Receipt: Enter your e-mail for a receipt copy (optional). You are now all set to park.
  4. Additional Notes: Your assigned parking structure is: McCarthy Way Structure
  5. Please make sure you do NOT park in any reserved/signage spaces, as these are for reserved permit holders only.

Accessibility

What accommodations are available to people with disabilities (e.g., seating, parking, ASL interpreters)?

Please email acevents@usc.edu with any questions about accommodations.


Regalia

Do students wear regalia for the Convocation ceremony?

No, students will not wear academic regalia for the ceremony.


Health Protocols and Restrictions

Will there be any COVID-19 policies and restrictions in place when visiting USC’s campus for Convocation?

Currently, there are no restrictions or limitations for visitors coming to campus. If you have any symptoms or are currently in an isolation/quarantine period due to a recent infection or exposure, you may not attend.

Please note that COVID-19 policies and protocols are subject to change. Information on protocol updates will be communicated to guests by email or by another appropriate mechanism.

Do I need to be vaccinated to come to campus and attend convocation?

No, please refer to USC’s COVID vaccination program policy.