What happens on the day

Parking

On-street parking is available close to the Dome or within town-centre car parks. If students or guests hold a disabled blue badge, they can request car parking on campus when ordering tickets.

Registration

• You and your guests will need a ticket to gain admittance to the Dome
• Cloakrooms are available for you and your guests to leave coats
• Guests may sit anywhere within the guest seating area
• All graduands must go to the registration desk to sign in and collect their numbered seat card
• It's important that graduands take up their allocated place as it reflects the order in which names are read out as graduands cross the stage
• Make sure you and your guests are seated in the Dome 15 minutes before the ceremony is due to start

After registration

Once you have registered you'll be informed by the staff where the refreshments are served and where you can collect your gown and have your photographs taken. 

Arriving late

If you're late arriving, please go straight to the registration desk. We may be able to change the ceremony listings so that you can cross the stage at the end of the presentation.

The ceremony

The ceremony begins and ends with processions of the Executive, Council, civic dignitaries and academic staff. As well as the presentation of the graduates, it includes addresses from the Chancellor or Chair of Council and Vice-Chancellor and the presentation of an honorary degree. Please stand when the procession enters.

• Ushers (in maroon gowns) in the Dome will indicate when it's your turn to be presented
• You'll be asked to go up in the order of awards, as stated in the programme
• Don't worry, we'll do a final check that you're in the right position before you cross the stage
• You should wear your hat as you cross the stage
• When your name is read out, please cross the stage slowly and down the steps, where you'll be handed your certificate, or letter of congratulations if you've already had your certificate, and then you'll be guided back to your seat.
• So everyone can enjoy the event, we ask you all remain seated for the duration of the ceremony except when you are asked to go up for your award
• At the end of the ceremony, please stand while the stage party and University special guests leave the Dome

After the ceremony

You can also take this opportunity to take photographs and catch up with your classmates and staff on the Dome floor. Please return your gown to Ede & Ravenscroft before leaving.