On the day

Once you arrive on campus, head to the registration desk at University Place to register and collect your guest tickets and seat number. If you arrive more than two hours in advance of your assigned ceremony, you will not be able to register.

Once you’ve registered, make your way to the robing rooms to collect your cap and gown and have your official photograph taken.

You should make your way over to Whitworth Hall at least 45 minutes before the start of your ceremony.

There are different entrances for graduands and guests, as well as an accessible entrance. Please remember to give your guests their tickets, as they’ll need these to enter the venue from their separate entrance. Staff will be there on the day to help you.

Please wait in the correct queue, or you will miss the final checking process and may not be able to take part in your ceremony. Make sure you keep your ticket with you, as this has your seat number on it.

If you arrive late and miss your allocated graduation ceremony we endeavour to try and allocate you to the next available ceremony. Please note that in some instances the ceremony you attend in the end may not relate to your subject and/or School, and provision for a celebration event may not be available.

You'll be called to move towards the stage by a steward in the order that names will be read and your award presented.

When the presenter reads out your name, proceed across the stage, where you will be congratulated by the Presiding Officer. If you wish, you may choose to shake their hand. You are also encouraged to pause briefly while a photograph is taken to commemorate this special moment.

If you prefer not to engage in a handshake, please indicate this by placing your right hand over your left shoulder. In such cases, the Presiding Officer will acknowledge you with a respectful doff of their cap instead of extending a hand.

You will leave the stage using the central steps before returning to your seat. Don't forget to pick up your degree certificate at the bottom of the steps. 

Following the ceremony, prepare to join the procession and leave the hall.

The ceremonies usually last between 45 minutes to an hour.

Once your ceremony ends, please make your way out of the hall into the Old Quad. This is a great place to meet your guests, take photos, and celebrate with friends. You can then continue your celebrations in the School celebrations marquee.

You and your guests are invited to a 90 minute celebration in the graduation marquee, where refreshments and snacks will be served.

The marquee will be located opposite the Alan Gilbert Learning Commons (Building 63 on the Campus Map).

Alliance Manchester Business School Graduands

If you are graduating from the Alliance Manchester Business School, you are invited to a ceremony reception in your School to celebrate with your family, friends, and fellow Business School graduates.

Details on how to book your tickets will be sent to you by email from your School.

Please remember to return your academic cap and gown after your ceremony.