AUIB Commencement 2026
Until the Ceremony
Save the Date
About the event
Commencement 2026 marks a defining moment in the history of American University of Iraq–Baghdad. It is more than a ceremony, it is the realization of a vision and the celebration of a journey that began with a bold belief in the power of education to shape the future of Iraq.
This year, AUIB proudly celebrates its second undergraduate class and its first (MBA) graduate class. From the day the university opened its doors in the heart of Baghdad, the mission has been clear: to offer a world-class, American-style education that nurtures curiosity, integrity, and leadership, while honoring Iraq’s deep intellectual and cultural heritage. Today, that mission takes tangible form in the achievements of our graduates.
Commencement is a moment of pride not only for our students, but also for the families who supported them, the faculty who guided them, and the entire AUIB community that believed in this dream from the beginning. Each graduate represents perseverance, ambition, and the promise of a brighter future.
First Graduating Cohort of AUIB Master of Business Administration (MBA)
The AUIB MBA program celebrates the achievement of a new generation of leaders prepared to shape the future of business in Iraq and beyond. Through a rigorous and globally aligned curriculum, graduates have developed the strategic insight, leadership capabilities, and practical expertise needed to navigate complex challenges and drive meaningful impact.
2026 in Numbers
Undergraduate Students (Bachelor)
Graduate students (Master)
Colleges
Majors
Meet the Class of 2026
Tabark Radeef Abbas
Assim Anas
Surra Rashed
Hatem Abdul-Kareem
Maryam Hayder
Ali Kubba
Noor Qassim
Ali Khalid Abdualrahman khashman
Event Schedule
Please note that gates close at 7:00 PM, and entry will not be possible afterwards. Adherence to ceremony protocols is highly appreciated.
Campus gates open for graduates and guests
AUIB Campus, Airport Road, Baghdad- Iraq
Key MomentWelcome reception with light refreshments
Boulevard Arena by the new Lecture Hall
Guests take their seats
Commencement Ceremony begins
Key MomentWe invite all graduates to use these hashtags to celebrate your Commencement journey: #AUIBGrad | #AUIBProudGraduate | #AUIBGrad2026 | #ClassOf2026
Share your favorite memories, celebrations, and cap & gown moments with your friends, family, and the AUIB community on social media. We can’t wait to see them!
Regalia Guidelines
College-specific velvet trim and black lining
Black gown with embroidered AUIB logo
Black mortarboard with gold tassel
Black mortarboard with gold tassel
Black gown with embroidered AUIB logo
College-specific velvet trim and black lining
College-specific velvet trim and black lining
Black gown with embroidered AUIB logo
Black mortarboard with gold tassel
Black mortarboard with gold tassel
Black gown with embroidered AUIB logo
College-specific velvet trim and black lining
College-specific velvet trim and black lining
Black gown with 3 velvet sleeve stripes and embroidered AUIB logo
Six-cornered black tam with gold tassel
Six-cornered black tam with gold tassel
Black gown with 3 velvet sleeve stripes and embroidered AUIB logo
College-specific velvet trim and black lining
To maintain the formality and dignity of the ceremony, decorations, cords, pins, and modifications on regalia components are not allowed.
Founder’s Medal
For AUIB students, the Founding Father and Vice Chair of the Board of Trustees Mr. Saadi Saihood’s Medal, is a meaningful recognition of everything they’ve worked toward during their time at the University. It celebrates those who have gone beyond academics, students who have shown initiative, supported others, and made a real impact.
Awarded to top graduates in each college, it also recognizes individuals who reflect the spirit of AUIB through their actions and contributions.
As a new tradition, the medal connects each graduating class to something bigger, a shared standard of excellence and a sense of responsibility to carry forward what they’ve built at AUIB.
Notable Speakers
Dr. Bradley Cook
President of the American University of Iraq – Baghdad
Dr. Faiq Zaidan
President of the Supreme Judicial Council of Iraq
Messages from Faculty
"Our AUIB pharmacy graduates are prepared to lead innovation in healthcare, translating science into solutions that improve patient care and society."
"Graduation is not the end of learning. It is the moment you take responsibility for how you use what you have learned to serve your community and shape your future."
"Markets will change, and technologies will evolve, but integrity, judgement, and curiosity will remain your greatest assets."
"Your official education ends today, and you now have all the skills to start a lifelong journey of self-learning. Take flight and lead your own future with purpose."
Frequently Asked Questions
For Graduates
Saturday, May 23, 2026,
Location: Boulevard Arena by the new Lecture Hall
Yes. Rehearsal is on May 21, 2026, at 3:30 P.M.
Business or formal attire and comfortable shoes.
No modifications or decorations allowed on the Cap, Gown or Hood.
Each graduate may bring up to 4 guests.
Yes, professional photos and videos will be taken, and shared after the event.
For Guests
Guests should arrive by 3:00 PM; doors will close at 6:00 PM.
Business or business casual attire is recommended.
Children under the age of 13 are not permitted.
Yes. Parking is available at the second main gate with shuttle services.
Yes, a welcome reception and a post-ceremony reception will be hosted.
Livestream
Livestream Coming Soon
The livestream will be available on the day of the ceremony