Attending your ceremony

What to expect on graduation day

Navigate the logistics of your graduation ceremony with confidence. To get the most out of your celebration, watch our video on what to expect on graduation day. From arriving to crossing the stage, we'll guide you through what you need to know. 

On the day

Graduation ceremonies include the formal presentation of degrees, diplomas and certificates, addresses by dignitaries and members of the University. The formal proceedings last for approximately one and half to two hours, with light refreshments and photography and framing services available for one hour after the ceremony concludes.

  

  • July 2025 Graduation Ceremony Programs and student lists
  • Viewing Ceremony Online Via Free Livestream Link
  • REGISTERING YOUR ATTENDANCE
  • Cancelling your attendance
  • Guest Tickets
  • Arriving
  • Legal Name versus Preferred Name at a Graduation Ceremony
  • Pronunciation for the name to be read at your ceremony
  • Parking
  • Your seat number
  • ACADEMIC DRESS
  • How do i order my regalia
  • WHEN AND WHERE DO I COLLECT MY REGALIA
  • The difference between an undergraduate and postgraduate gown
  • HOW TO WEAR YOUR REGALIA VIDEOS
  • I NEED HELP WITH MY REGALIA
  • Multimedia services and merchandise
  • FOOD AND BEVERAGE OFFERS FOR GRADUANDS, FRIENDS AND FAMILIES
  • TYPICAL GRADUATION CEREMONY ORDER OF PROCEEDING
View from the rear of graduates entering Winthrop Hall

Your procession to Winthrop Hall

Graduands and members of the School will be processing (walking in formation in regalia) from Gillet Promenade Marquee to Winthrop Hall. As such, you are asked to arrive at Gillet Promenade Marquee no later than one hour before the ceremony start time so you don't miss out on this part of the celebration.

After gathering at your assembly area, you’ll be assigned to a row according to your seat number. Don’t switch places with another graduand as you’ll be called onto stage and seated in the order in which you lined up.

If you arrive late, visit the information tent outside Winthrop Hall.

Crossing the stage (dais)

Graduands with a seat number from A-Z

Number 1
When prompted by staff, take the folder on your chair, rise with your row and move to the left aisle of the hall.
Number 2
Identify yourself to the staff member attending, have your academic dress adjusted (if necessary) and wait here until the presenter calls your name.
Number 3

Proceed halfway towards the Chancellor, stop, "doff" your mortarboard (stop next to the Chancellor for the stage photo) and walk back to your seat via the stairs in the centre of the dais. Please be aware there will be no handshaking.

Number 4
When the last graduand returns to their seat, staff will prompt you to stand and the Chancellor will confer your award. Staff will then prompt you to sit.

Graduands with a Stage (dais) ticket number

Doctorate graduands are seated on the dais. In some graduation ceremonies, postgraduate graduands may also be on the dais. A higher doctorate is a prestigious and rare honour conferred by the Senate to exceptional scholars in recognition of their contribution to a particular field of research. The rigorous process of evaluation means this degree is awarded to scholars of outstanding merit.

Number 1
When prompted by staff, take the folder on your chair, rise with your row and move to the right-hand side of the dais.
Number 2
Proceed to the presenter and wait until you are presented to the Chancellor.
Number 3

Proceed halfway towards the Chancellor, stop, "doff" your mortarboard (stop next to the Chancellor for the stage photo). Return to your seat via the centre aisle and sit down. Please be aware there will be no handshaking.

Number 4
When the last graduand returns to their seat, staff will prompt you to stand and the Chancellor will confer your award. Staff will then prompt you to sit.
View of graduation ceremony from the balcony of Winthrop Hall

How to "doff"

To "doff", walk halfway towards the Chancellor and stop.

Then, ‘pinch’ the right side of your cap with your thumb and index finger of your right hand.

Nod slightly towards the Chancellor.

Your graduation documents

At your ceremony you'll receive your original hard copy award certificate (testamur). After your ceremony you'll receive an email with a registration link for you to access digital copies of your testamur and Australian Higher Education Graduation Statement (AHEGS).

 

Joining your global graduate community

Upon conferral of your degree, you will join a global community of over 145,800 UWA graduates and begin to find avenues for personal growth, life-long learning, volunteering, social engagement and fellowship with your peers. All graduates of The University of Western Australia become members of the Convocation of UWA Graduates, a legally constituted body, unique to UWA, which provides you with the opportunity to share in and contribute to the future intellectual and cultural prosperity of the University. Update your details now to benefit from career connections, event invitations and to ensure your voice is represented by Convocation.

 

What if I can't make it to my ceremony anymore?

If you are suddenly unable to attend, let the Graduations team know via askUWA using your student email account. When you send the email, include:

• your student ID number

• your full name, and

• a statement that you:

• are unable to attend your Graduation ceremony

• want your award to be conferred in absentia at the ceremony

• are aware that once your award has been conferred in absentia you will not be permitted to attend any future ceremony for this award

If you experienced any extenuating circumstances or have queries about not being able to attend your ceremony, contact the Graduations team.

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