Graduating from university is a key stage in a young persons life, that is celebrated differently in various parts of the world. Unlike the US, where all high schoolers have their graduation at eighteen, the UK has its own approach.
Depending on what sort of university you attend, your graduation will look largely similar to the others. Russell Group universities do have their own traditions that have dated back centuries. As well as coloured gowns depending on the context of the event and the subject being celebrated.
Undergraduate ceremonies
In the UK, Undergraduate ceremonies typically take place in the summer. As long as the student has got their grade and there aren’t any additional circumstances to take into consideration, you can be confident that your time will be sometime over the summer months. This also allows you the fun of being flexible with your fashion choices on graduation day. You want to look fire! As a UK graduate girly, I know so many of us are looking forward to wearing our House of CB dresses! So hopefully the weather is agreeable to this.
Postgraduate and PhD ceremonies
As for Postgraduate and PhD ceremonies, they normally happen in the winter or early spring, due to the academic tinge frames for their work being longer and starting at different times. If you’re heading for a postgraduate ceremony this winter, it is worth checking the temperature and considering indoor heating when choosing something to wear. You don’t want to layer up and overheat in your gowns.
Resits and Higher Education diplomas
Resits and Higher Education Diplomas are normally given out around February time.
Timings
All graduation ceremonies are split off into to schools which you should already be aware of when you’re studying your degree. For example, mine is the school of arts so I’m a Bachelor of Arts. This includes all arts, drama, and humanities subjects.
This means that each ceremony will be around 1.5 to 2.5 hours each, with three being held in one day.
Locations
Most graduation ceremonies will either take place in a prestigious location on site, or in a monumental location with large capacity in the city. I have studied at De Montfort University, therefore mine is held at The Curve theatre. I know that University of Leicester’s ceremonies reside in De Montfort Hall.
Gowns
You can’t graduate without a gown! Each university will have their own dress code for the gowns and faculties. This will probably have been something you’re aware of after seeing other graduates in the same clothes. Make sure you have rented them in time, as they probably won’t be able to accommodate you on the day.
Registration
You MUST register upon arrival! This ensures that your name is read out during the ceremony. How sad would it be that your whole family has shown up to watch you and you’re not up there because you got too excited to register!!! Normally, universities don’t allow you to collect your uniform until you’ve registered. But please be mindful of this in case they don’t!
Uniform collection
Bring your ID, phone, and a camera. You’ll be assigned a locker to put your belongings in, but pack light because this will be restricted space.
Collecting your degree
When you collect your degree you’ll be arranged in alphabetical order. Your lecturers will congratulate you on your success, and the school song or a performer from the local area will play. Sometimes, if you’re lucky a celebrity who also attended that university might come and make a speech.
Before you go onto the stage to collect your degree, you will be asked to verify your name and your details several times. This is why it is essential that you have your ID on you.
Graduating from university is one of the biggest achievements in your life time! Make sure you enjoy it and stay present in the moment to soak it all in. Currently in second year eyeing up your graduation gown a year in advance? Let’s smash third year first! Here’s my top tips for third year.
