Graduation Etiquette

To ensure that graduation ceremonies run smoothly and that all graduands have the best possible experience, we ask that you please review the important guidance below.

• Graduands and guests must be seated 30 minutes before the ceremony is due to start. Late arrivals will not be permitted entry to the ceremony.
• Academic dress is required for ceremony. Gown hire is arranged by our partners at Ede & Ravenscroft. User accounts have been created for each eligible graduand for the April 2025 ceremonies.  
• It is customary to applaud graduands, although we kindly ask that you follow the lead of the academics on stage for the appropriate time to applaud. We're conscious that everyone should be given their time on stage without disruptions from the person before them.
• You are welcome to take pictures during the ceremony, but we kindly ask that you do not stand to take them, as this will restrict the view of the person sitting behind you.  Professional photos are taken of each graduand when crossing the stage which you are welcome to purchase (see Ede & Ravenscroft stand on the front lawn after your ceremony).
• Smoking is prohibited inside the venue and on campus except in designated smoking areas.
• Graduation is not a platform for personal or political views. We kindly request that graduands and guests don’t bring flags or signs and avoid any kind of political displays.

Please note, we reserve the right to refuse entry or remove any graduands or their guests if we believe that they are not following the appropriate etiquette, or if they are in breach of any rules and regulations.