2026 Commencement Celebration Schedule
In addition to the law school diploma celebration, we are recognizing our 2026 graduates in many other ways. View the celebration event schedule below. Stay tuned for future updates on commencement events.
Registration will open for all events in late March. The email will come from commencement
gwu [dot] edu (commencement[at]gwu[dot]edu) initially and lawcommencementlaw [dot] gwu [dot] edu (lawcommencement[at]law[dot]gwu[dot]edu) will follow shortly. Additional tickets can be requested during the registration process for all events.
Commencement Registration
Commencement registration is now open! Before registering, make sure you:
Graduates must register, and record their names, by 11:59 pm ET on April 21, 2026. If you have questions about the registration process, refer to the how to register guide or contact commencementgwu [dot] edu (commencement[at]gwu[dot]edu).
Official Law Commencement Event Schedule
Academic Regalia
Online regalia sales have ended. Law students may rent regalia in person at the Campus Store beginning April 16. Quantities are limited and not guaranteed.
Commencement Photoshoot
Monday, May 11 | 9 am-Noon
Tuesday, May 12 | 9-11:30 am
Constitution Gardens on the National Mall
Commemorate completing your law degree with an #OnlyAtGW photo! To kick off the festivities, join Dean Matthew, friends, and classmates for a very special photo shoot at the Constitution Gardens.
Dean's Reception
Friday, May 15
7-9 pm
National Portrait Gallery
Each graduate will receive 4 electronic tickets for themselves, family, and friends
Dress Code: Business or Cocktail
The Dean’s Reception will be held at the National Portrait Gallery (Smithsonian Institution) at 8th and G Streets NW, Washington, DC.
Pro Bono Recognition Celebration
Saturday, May 16
11 am
Betts Theatre, University Student Center
Invitation Only
The Pro Bono Recognition Celebration will be held at Betts Theatre, University Student Center, 800 21st Street NW, Washington, DC. Please note that this event is by invitation only.
Academic Awards Celebration
Saturday, May 16
3 pm
Betts Theatre, University Student Center
Invitation Only
The Academic Awards Celebration will be held at Betts Theatre, University Student Center, 800 21st Street NW, Washington, DC. Please note that this event is by invitation only.
University-Wide Commencement Celebration
Sunday, May 17
10:30 am
National Mall
Limit 5 guests
The University Commencement Ceremony on the Mall will begin with an academic procession at 10 am, and remarks will begin at 10:30 am. Each graduate will receive 5 electronic tickets for family and friends.
| Day | Time |
|---|---|
| Friday, May 13 | 7:30 am - 9 pm |
| Saturday, May 14 | 7:30 am - 9 pm |
| Sunday, May 15 | 7 am - 5 pm |
Location
Science and Engineering Hall
800 22nd Street, NW
Washington, DC
Class of 2026 Photo
Sunday, May 17
1:15 pm
The Class of 2026 photograph will be taken at Potomac Square on G Street between 20th and 21st St, NW, Washington, DC.
Law School Diploma Celebration
Sunday, May 17
3 pm
Charles E. Smith Center
Limit 5 guests
Doors will open for guests at 2 pm
The Law School Diploma Celebration will be held at the Charles E. Smith Center, 600 22nd Street NW, Washington, DC. The academic procession will begin at Funger Hall at 2:30 pm, and remarks will begin at 3 pm. A livestream will be available on the website at 3 pm.
Special Notes
Accessibility - GW is committed to providing universal access to all of our events. If you have questions about accommodations, contact Disability Support Services at dssgwu [dot] edu (dss[at]gwu[dot]edu) or visit our Accessibility information webpage. Advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility needs.
Lodging - There are many options for lodging across the DC area, including some options that are close to the National Mall. Be sure to ask any hotel if they offer a discount for the weekend of GW’s Commencement.
University Celebration and Activities - For a complete schedule of university and law school activities throughout Commencement Week, please visit the GW commencement website.
GW Commencement FAQs - Find answers to frequently asked questions about GW Commencement.
Leave Your Legacy: Class of 2026 Gift
As your time at GW Law concludes, your legacy is just beginning. Let's leave an imprint not just in memories but in tangible support for those who follow behind. Contribute and let the Class of 2026 forever resonate in the halls of GW Law.