University of Nottingham > Student Services > Service Details > Graduation > On the day

On the day

On this page you'll find:

Schedule of the day | Guide to your day | Post-ceremony celebration | Graduation map

Schedule of the day

Here's a rundown of the graduation agenda so you can ensure you're on time and ready to shine!

10.30am ceremony

Check-in and gowning: from 8.30am

Ceremony hall opens: 9.30am

Check-in and gowning completed by: 9.45am

Graduates seated by: 10am

Ceremony: 10.30-11.45am

Gown return closes: 7.30pm (6pm on Friday)

1.30pm ceremony

Check-in and gowning: from 8.30am (9.30am on Tuesday)

Ceremony hall opens: 12.30pm

Check-in and gowning completed by: 12.45pm

Graduates seated by: 1pm

Ceremony: 1.30-2.45pm

Gown return closes: 7.30pm (6pm on Friday)

4pm ceremony

Check-in and gowning: from 8.30am (9.30am on Tuesday)

Ceremony hall opens: 3pm

Check-in and gowning completed by: 3.15pm

Graduates seated by: 3.30pm

Ceremony: 4pm-5.15pm

Gown return closes: 7.30pm

Guide to your day

We want to make sure your graduation is as stress-free as possible. To help you feel at ease and enjoy the day, it's helpful to have a good idea of what to expect. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you make the most of your special day.

1. Travel and arrival

Graduation ceremonies are held at David Ross Sports Village, on University Park Campus, which is well served by public transport.

If arriving by car, security will meet you and direct you to the nearest parking space. This will be on campus but could be up to a 15-minute walk from David Ross Sports Village.

Graduation map (PDF)

2. Parking

Parking is available on University Park Campus for graduation and costs £10 per vehicle. You should book your parking in advance if possible. More information and the link to pre-book is available on our transport and parking webpage.

If you or your guests are blue badge holders, you do not need to pay for parking as long as you display your badge.

Transport and parking

3. Check-in and tickets

Head to David Ross Sports Village to check-in and collect your tickets and wristbands from the check-in desks. You will also receive your seat number at this point.

Remember, check-in closes 45 minutes before your ceremony start time.

Watch: Before your ceremony

4. Gowning

Collect your gown and hood from David Ross Sports Village. Don’t forget to bring your booking number with you. The gowning team will be on hand to ensure your gown and hood are properly fitted.

If you have time, make your way to the photography studios to have your official photos taken.

Gown and hood hire

5. Ceremony

Ensure you are seated in the ceremony hall 30 minutes before your ceremony start time.

Guest seating is not allocated, so arrive early to secure a good spot. Stewards will be on hand to assist with seating.

Watch: During your ceremony

6. Special moment

The ceremony will begin promptly at the time advertised on your ticket.

When it is your time, stewards will guide you to the stage. As your name is called, you’ll cross the stage, have your photo taken and celebrate your achievement!

7. Photography

Guests are welcome to take photography and video during the ceremony, but please refrain from using flash photography.

After your ceremony, you can have your official photographs taken in the photography studios or explore the photo opportunities around the Graduation Village.

Photography and video

8. Post-ceremony

Make your way to East Midlands Conference Centre for a post-ceremony drinks reception. You’ll also find food and drink available to purchase, along with University of Nottingham merchandise at our stalls.

Watch: After your ceremony

9. Gown return

Once you have finished your celebrations, don't forget to return your gown to the designated return point.

Post-ceremony celebration

Enjoy a free glass of fizz and sweet treat as you celebrate with family and friends at our post-ceremony celebration event at East Midlands Conference Centre. There'll be space to relax indoors, plus more spots to take the perfect photo!

East Midlands Conference Centre will be serving a range of hot food and drinks available to purchase, including:

Beef burger
Vegan Korean burger
Beef and black bean chilli
Roasted squash and red pepper chilli
Mature cheddar baked potato

Hot drinks including coffee, tea and hot chocolate will be available, as well as a selection of fresh pastries and snacks.

View the full menu

Graduating student throwing cap next to a Christmas tree

Official University of Nottingham merchandise and clothing will also be available to buy on the day. Stalls will be selling everything from hoodies and t-shirts to Kente scarves and graduation teddy bears. Personalised options can be ordered in advance from Campus Clothing.

Graduation map

Download the map (PDF)

FAQs

Terms and conditions