On the day: what to expect at graduation

The gown, the walk, the moment your name is called. Here’s what to expect on graduation day, from arriving on campus to stepping off the stage.

Ceremony length

Most graduation ceremonies run for about 1½ to 2 hours, but you should allow up to 3 hours in total on the day. Celebrating before or after the ceremony? Keep these things in mind:

• Arrive at the venue wearing your academic regalia at least 30 minutes before doors close. You’ll need this time to register your attendance, so don’t be late
• Allow up to 3 hours in total when making any post-ceremony bookings. This includes registration beforehand, the procession into the auditorium and leaving the venue afterwards

What to do when you arrive

Aim to arrive with time to spare so you can settle in before the ceremony begins. If you arrive with guests, make sure they’re ready to be seated in the auditorium. Before heading to registration:

• Leave your bag, flowers and personal items with your guests – you can’t take these on stage
• Be ready for a ceremony that can last up to two hours (you may want to go to the bathroom or check your appearance before)

Registering for the ceremony

You must register on the day using your unique QR code before entering the assembly area.

Registration takes place outside the assembly area, and only registered graduands are allowed through. You’ll receive your unique QR code a few weeks before your ceremony – this is used to register your attendance on the day.

Make sure you:

• Arrive at least 30 minutes before doors close for the ceremony
• Register so we can confirm your attendance
• Line up in order as directed by staff – we’ll check your name and that you’re wearing the right academic regalia
• Put your phone on silent and keep it in your pocket before leaving the assembly area

What happens inside the auditorium

By the time you enter, officials and guests will already be seated.

Entering the auditorium

When the karanga (call) begins, you’ll start filing into the auditorium as a group.

• Move quickly and quietly, and remain standing until you’re asked to sit
• Settle in, enjoy the ceremony and be ready for your moment on stage
• When it’s time, a graduation marshal will ask you to stand and file to the right-hand side of the stage, where there will be a final check of names

On stage

If you’re receiving a degree, keep your trencher (graduation cap) tucked under your left arm, with the tassel facing to the front.
When your name is called:

• Walk directly to the Chancellor, who will be standing in the centre of the stage
• The Chancellor will hold a ceremonial trencher either over your head or your shoulder, depending on your qualification
• You may then place your trencher on your head and move to the Vice‑Chancellor to receive your parchment
• Walk along the carpet to the far side of the stage and down the stairs, where marshals will guide you back to your seat (this may be a different seat to the one you sat in originally)

At the end of the ceremony

Graduates are expected to stay until the ceremony officially finishes. Leaving early is very disrespectful to your fellow graduates and the graduate speaker.

The ceremony closes with:

• A valedictory speech delivered by a graduate on behalf of all graduands
• A congratulatory speech from the Chancellor
• The national anthem

Watch: Get ready for graduation