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Commencement

KAUST celebrates this year's graduates Wednesday, November 26, 2025

Commencement 2025 – FAQ

Event Overview

Commencement Dinner: Tuesday, November 25, 2025 — KAUST Amphitheater, 7:00 p.m.–10:00 p.m.

Commencement Ceremony: Wednesday, November 26, 2025 — KAUST Spine, 6:00 p.m.– 9:00 p.m.

Format: Unified, in-person ceremony for all divisions (PSE, CEMSE, BESE, and TIE). The program includes:

  • Arrival of distinguished guests, faculty, and graduates
  • National Anthem and Quran recitation
  • Remarks from KAUST leadership and student representatives
  • Degree conferral and recognition
  • Post-ceremony celebration at the University Spine
Registration

Yes. Registration is required for all graduating students.

  • Opens: October 9, 2025
  • Closes: October 25, 2025

Eligible students will receive an email with the registration link and detailed instructions. Guest registration will open after student registration closes, and links will be sent directly to registered students.

Guest Invitations & Access

Yes. Each graduating student may invite up to three (3) guests to both the Dinner and Ceremony.

  • Ceremony guests: Ages 7+
  • Dinner guests: Ages 16+
  • Separate registration is required for each event.
  • Only guests with valid, pre-issued printed tickets will be admitted.
  • Tourist visa: Recommended for most guests.
  • Family visit or business visa: For guests not eligible for a tourist visa.
  • Government visa requests must be submitted by October 31, 2025.
  • Current students: Process guest passes via VMS.
  • Alumni graduates: Access via the Alumni Gate Access link (sent by email).
  • DSA students: Managed by the Commencement Team.

Distributed during rehearsal:

  • 2 guest tickets for the Ceremony (ages 7+)
  • 2 guest tickets for the Dinner (ages 16+)
Travel & Accommodation

After guest registration, students may book rooms (limited availability).
Benefits:

  • 10% discount on dine-in and ladies’ salon services
  • Assistance with airport transfers and gate passes

Inquiries: reservationkaust@alkhozamahotels.com

Proof of COVID-19 vaccination and masks arenot required .
For the latest updates, visit Visit Saudi.

Childcare Services

Childcare will be provided during both the Commencement Ceremony and Dinner.

Details:

  • Location: Building Blocks Daycare (opposite Tamimi) Ages: 2 months – 6 years
  • Dates: November 25 & 26, 2025
  • Time: 5:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
  • Registration closes: November 10, 2025

Parents must provide diapers, wipes, food, and personal items.

  • Capacity depends on total registrations.
  • Older children (7–9 years) will be managed by Coastline (max 20 children, 2 coaches).
  • Parents must register in advance.
  • Check-in and verification will occur at ECC1 reception.
  • Parents may check on children at any time.
Regalia Information

Borrow or Purchase Regalia

Students may borrow regalia free of charge or purchase their own set.

Borrowed Regalia:

  • Collection: November 4–6, 2025, at Fellowship Hall (Building 18)
  • Headshots will be taken during pickup.
  • Must be returned in good condition.

Purchased Regalia:

  • Purchase option available through the registration form.
  • Fitting sessions: November 4–6, 2025
  • Costs:
    o MS Gown: SAR 1,955 (incl. VAT)
    o PhD Gown: SAR 2,127.50 (incl. VAT)
  • Purchased sets will be distributed before the ceremony.

If you are outside KAUST or the Kingdom:

Email commencement@kaust.edu.sa to arrange regalia collection upon arrival.

Important Notes:

  • Regalia must be kept in good condition and brought to both rehearsal and ceremony days.
  • Missing collection dates may result in unavailability during Commencement.
  • Remote students may submit a measurement form.
Photography

Digital photos taken during regalia pickup will be shared with students by end of December 2025.

Contact

For all inquiries, email, Email: commencement@kaust.edu.sa