Updated for Summer 2025
Schedule for the day
This is an important occasion for you and your fellow graduands, and we all want it to run smoothly. Take a look at the running order below so that you and your guests are familiar with it before the big day.
2 hours before your ceremony
You'll first need to collect your gown from the Princes Quay Event Space (Ground Floor) across the road from the graduation venue. You’ll then be able to have your official photos taken. Once you have your gown, you and your guests are welcome to enter Connexin Live.
45 mins before your ceremony
This is when doors to the main hall in Connexin Live will open. Graduands will be shown to their seat (so have your seat number to hand) and guests can also take their seats inside the venue.
15 minutes before the ceremony
All guests and graduands should be seated ready for the ceremony to begin.
The ceremony
Ceremonies last approximately an hour and a half. Make sure you soak it all in, you’ve worked hard for this!
After the ceremony
All graduates and guests are expected to leave the arena promptly after each ceremony, but you’re invited to join us at Zebedee’s Yard for the celebration event where you’ll receive a free drink.
Please return your gown to Graduation Attire in the Princes Quay Event Space by 7pm.
What to wear
There is a strict dress code at the graduation ceremonies.
The appropriate academic robes must be worn. Academic robes include a gown, hood and cap and will vary slightly depending on the type of degree that you are receiving.
The academic gown and hood will be worn on top of any other clothing.
Normal wear under gowns is a suit, or a dress, or skirt/trouser and shirt combination. You may want to wear a shirt/dress with buttons, as your hood can be attached to a button, but all hoods are also able to be secured without a button. Graduands are also welcome to wear their national dress or other cultural dress and decoration.
This is a very special day for the University as well as for all students and their families, and we ask that you dress smartly. Jeans and trainers are not permitted.
Entering the venue
Our graduation ceremonies are held at Connexin Live, Myton St, Hull, HU1 2PS.
You’ll need to show your graduate ticket (received from our Registry team) and any guest tickets (bought through AXS) on your arrival at the arena.
Security advice
Please co-operate fully with all security checks. Entry constitutes consent to search. A security and ticket check will take place on the arena concourse. Once inside, you’ll be able to enter and exit the building without further security checks. However, if you leave the concourse perimeter, you’ll be subject to security and ticket checks on returning to the area.
We encourage you to only bring essential items. Large bags, backpacks, holdalls, luggage, pushchairs or computer bags will not be allowed into the area (bags larger than 35cm x 40cm x 19cm are prohibited). Take a look at the full list of prohibited items.
Large bags, suitcases and pushchairs can be left safely at The Edge (opposite Connexin). This is a secure space and is free of charge. A member of security will direct you to The Edge on arrival at Connexin if you arrive with one of the larger items listed above.
Exceptions will only be made for those with medical requirements and/or special needs. For ease of entry, we ask that you let us know in advance by emailing registry@hull.ac.uk.
What to do during your ceremony
The Graduands’ Marshall will explain the procedure and guide you through the ceremony. When it's your turn to cross the stage, a member of staff will lead you and show you where to stand. Your name will be read out by the Dean of your Faculty. You’ll cross the stage and be congratulated by our Chancellor. After leaving the stage, you’ll collect your certificate and return to your seat to enjoy the rest of the ceremony.
Live stream and photography
Graduation is a public celebration of the success of our students. The ceremonies are recorded and live streamed across the venues and online. Graduands and guests seated in the venue should be aware that they may appear on this recording.
