On the day

Please arrive on campus at your designated registration time, which will be included in your graduation confirmation email.

Upon arrival, make your way to University Place to register your attendance and collect your seat number.

Once you have registered, proceed to the robing area to:

• Collect your gown (if hired through Ede & Ravenscroft).
• Have your official graduation photograph taken.
• Prepare for your ceremony.

Information for guests

Guests should proceed directly to Whitworth Hall and arrive in good time before the ceremony begins.

To gain entry, each guest must present a valid electronic ticket containing their unique QR code or barcode. Tickets can be displayed on a mobile device or presented as a printed copy.

Information for graduands

Graduands must also present their graduation ticket containing their unique QR code or barcode when entering Whitworth Hall.

To help ensure a smooth admission process, please check that you and your guests can access your tickets before travelling to campus.

Important: Entry to Whitworth Hall will only be permitted on presentation of a valid graduation or guest ticket. Please ensure that all tickets have been downloaded or are readily accessible before arriving on campus.

Please make your way to Whitworth Hall at least 45 minutes before your ceremony start time to allow sufficient time for venue entry and final checks.

There are separate entrances for:

• Graduands
• Guests
• Accessible access requirements

Please ensure that your guests have access to their electronic tickets containing their QR code or barcode, as they will need these to enter the venue through the designated guest entrance.

The printed tickets provided when you register are souvenirs only and cannot be used to gain entry to Whitworth Hall. Admission is by valid electronic ticket only.

Our staff will be available throughout the process to help direct you and answer any questions.

Please join the correct queue when you arrive. The final attendance and seating checks take place before entry to the Hall, and joining the wrong queue may delay your entry or prevent you from taking part in your ceremony.

Remember to keep your graduation seating ticket with you at all times, as it contains your seat number and will be required during the admission process.

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 next to University Place, in front of Williamson Building. University Place is number 37 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.

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