When will I get my certificate?
If you attend your graduation ceremony, your degree certificate and diploma supplement will be handed to you on stage.
Those who graduate in absentia will be sent their certificates within 5 working days after the ceremonies have finished to the postal address you indicate on the graduation ceremony application form. Your certificate will only be issued at the graduation ceremony or after. It is not possible under any circumstances to receive your certificate or a photocopy of your certificate prior to the graduation ceremony. Please be aware - if you have not completed the graduation ceremony application form, your certificate will not be sent to you.
What time should I arrive before my ceremony?
We strongly suggest you arrive at the campus at least 1 hour prior to your ceremony.
Registration and other pre-ceremony activities are open to students 1.5 hours before a ceremony. After arrival, please follow directing signs to the Lord Dearing Building to register. You will receive your Student Ticket and your Guest Ticket when you register.
Will a graduation gown be arranged for me?
Yes, the university will prepare a gown for you, according to the degree and gown size information that you indicate in your graduation ceremony application form. You will receive your gown after registering. A full set of gown includes a robe, a cap and a hood.
Please watch the guide video to wear your gown properly.
How long is a graduation ceremony?
A ceremony usually lasts for 60 - 90 minutes.
What happens at a ceremony?
A graduation ceremony starts with the entry of an academic procession consisting of university senior officers, Deans, Heads of Schools and academic staff. The procession enters the auditorium through the side door.
When the official conferment of student degrees starts, students move, in order, from their seats to the stairs leading to the platform. Please remove your cap when seated and leave it on your seat when you go to the platform.
A Marshal will check your name first. Then a senior officer will read out your name – at this moment please make your way to the platform, walk to the central table, pause and bow to the Presiding Officer. Then proceed to the far side of the platform, where the Head of your School (or a representative) will shake hands with you. After that, you can get off the platform and collect your degree certificate and transcript at the table on the left-hand side, and return to your seat.
Ushers (wearing blue gowns) will be present throughout a ceremony and will be happy to assist you with any difficulties.
Is professional photography service available on the day?
Yes, a professional photographer will record the whole ceremony, and take three group photos after the ceremonies. The video record and group photos will be shared with you in mid-August/mid-December through university email.
In addition, professional event photo livestreaming is arranged. You may scan the QR code provided on the day to access. Meanwhile, the university will arrange free portrait photo service in DB A05 – each graduate could take one photo during the given time period.
What happens after my ceremony?
Graduation gowns must be returned to the registering & gowning room in the Lord Dearing Building within 30 minutes after a ceremony.
Will refreshments/food be available on the day?
Complimentary refreshments, including instant tea, coffee and cookies will be available in the public areas in the lobby of the D.H. Lawrence Auditorium for students and guests.
What can you do if you've registered to attend the ceremony in person but can't make it?
Please submit another application before the registration deadline, we will use the latest application received.
How can I apply for extra guest tickets?
As part of registration, you are able to select up to two free guest tickets for loved ones to attend and celebrate with you. Extra tickets may be available for application after the registration deadline, please send an email to graduation@nottingham.edu.cn to enquire – this will be on a first come, first served basis
If I cannot attend the ceremony in-person, can I borrow the graduation gown to take photos in advance?
You are not be able to borrow the university graduation gown in advance. Only eligible graduates can wear university graduation gowns. If you cannot attend the ceremony in-person, you are more than welcome to come back to our campus in the future and borrow a graduation gown from us. Please send a request to graduation@nottingham.edu.cn at least two weeks in advance to make a reservation.