Convocation ceremony checklist

Step 1: What to wear

What you are wearing underneath your gown will show, so don't be afraid to dress up.

• Formal attire, including suits or sports jackets and ties, dresses, and dress pants, are all good choices. 
• If the culture you identify with has traditional regalia you may wear this.
• Avoid high heels and carrying personal items, as there is no storage available for your items.
• Dress appropriately for the weather as the convocation celebration takes place outdoors after your ceremony.

Step 2: Parking 

On-campus parking is free in selected lots during convocation.

• See maps and parking for details.

Step 3: Bring your ID and arrive early

Photo ID is required to enter the convocation ceremony space.

• All graduating students will be required to show their WatCard or government-issued photo ID at various checkpoints, so carry it with you.
• Arrive 90 minutes early to check in and collect your regalia. 
• You must be in the graduating student lineup at least 40 minutes before the start of your ceremony to process into the gymnasium with your graduating class. Late arrivals will not process in.

Step 4: Pick up or rent your gown, and collect your name card

Gown Rental: Pick up or rent your gown and collect your name card at the Grad Check-In room during these times:

• 8:30 a.m. to 9:15 a.m. for morning ceremonies;
• 1:00 p.m. to 1:45 p.m. for afternoon ceremonies;
• 5:00 p.m. to 5:45 p.m. for evening ceremonies.

An academic hood symbolizes the granting of your degree.

• All graduates will receive their academic hood when they pick up their gown. 
  • PhD and Master's graduates will be hooded on stage. 
  • Undergraduates will cross the stage wearing their academic hood. 
• You will return this hood with your gown after the ceremony, unless you would like to purchase it.

Name Card: A name card has been prepared for all registered grads. 

• Keep your name card with you - it is needed at various checkpoints, including when you cross the stage.

Step 5: Security and grad line up

• Security search. All bags will be searched and prohibited items removed. 
  • Those who are not carrying bags will receive express entry. 
• Personal belongings: Personal belongings should be left at home or with guests. Secure storage is not available, and personal items cannot be brought into the ceremony.
• Be punctual! Grads must be lined up to join the procession 45 minutes before their ceremony begins to ensure a smooth and organized procession with their class. Late arrivals will not be able to walk in the procession with their class and will be seated separately to avoid disrupting the ceremony.
• Plan ahead and be in the small gymnasium by:
  • 9:15 a.m. for morning ceremonies
  • 1:45 p.m. for afternoon ceremonies
  • 5:45 p.m. for evening ceremonies

Step 6: Crossing the stage

Here is what happens when you cross the stage to receive your degree:

• A marshal will lead you to the stairs along the left side of the stage.
• An attendant will either drape your academic hood over your arm (for Master's and PhD grads) or check to ensure your hood is on correctly (for undergraduates).
• You will give your name card to the stage marshal, who will direct you when it is time to go onto the stage.
  • Undergraduate students cross the stage one at a time. You are encouraged to make this moment your own - smile, wave to your family, or kick up your heels if you wish. 
  • Master’s graduates cross in groups of three, stopping at the throne chairs where senior leaders sit. At the centre of the stage, a representative will hood you before you proceed.
  • PhD graduates cross individually to the centre throne, where a senior leader congratulates you while a representative hoods you. Once hooded, you may place your own hat on your head before proceeding.
• You will cross the stage and exit on the right side of the stage.  
• At the bottom of the stairs, you will receive your diploma.
• Smile! Professional photos will be taken after you receive your diploma.
• Marshals will guide you back to your seat.

Celebrate after the ceremony

Step 7: Convocation celebrations

Celebrate your graduation with your family and friends.

• A convocation celebration will be held immediately after your ceremony on the BMH Green.  
• Take photos with your fellow graduates, family, and friends with the UWaterloo alumni backdrops.
• Water filling stations will be available - please bring a reusable water bottle.

Step 8: Purchase or pick up your pre-ordered frame

• Pre-ordered frames will be available on the BMH Green.
• Additional frames are also for sale.

Step 9: Return your gown and hood

• Return your gown and hood to the atrium outside of the Grad Check-In Room as soon as possible after the ceremony.
• Information on purchasing your academic hood or PhD regalia can be found on the W Store page.

Step 10: Graduation gifts

• The W Store offers a wide range of souvenirs and gifts on the BMH Green.

Step 11: #UWaterlooGrad

• Share messages of congratulations, photos, and memories using #UWaterlooGrad.

Step 12: Being a Waterloo alumnus

• Being a graduate enters you into an exclusive club. As a UWaterloo alum, you have access to services that support your success and perks that let you have a little fun along the way.