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(Monday-Friday 08:30-17:00)
+44 (0)1234 400 400

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+44 (0)1582 74 39 89

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admission@beds.ac.uk (admissions)
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University of Bedfordshire
Park Square
Luton
Bedfordshire
UK, LU1 3JU

Order of proceedings

On the day - important instructions 

Happy graduates

The graduation ceremony - order of proceedings

  • Before the ceremony starts the Chief Usher will deliver a safety announcement and give instructions on what happens in the ceremony.
  • The ceremony begins when the congregation stand and the academic procession enters to take their seats.
  • The President will open the ceremony and invite the Vice Chancellor to speak.
  • At thw end of his introduction, the Vice Chancellor will invite the orator to present graduands.
  • The Orator will announce the awards. At some ceremonies honorary awards are also made. Honorands may make a short speech of acceptance.
  • Students (graduands) are presented in course and alphabetical order, and a group of ushers will assist you to be in the right place at the right time. It is important to stay in your seat order while waiting to be presented.
  • Students walk across a stage and shake hands with (or nod to) the three officials on the stage (Vice Chancellor, President and Guest of Honour). Once you have been presented please go directly back to your seat.  Prizes will be announced after all awards.
  • The President will introduce the Guest of Honour, and invite them to speak.
  • After the Guest of Honour’s speech the President will close the proceedings. The academic procession will file out, followed by the students. Guests are asked to wait until all students have left before leaving their seats.
Bedfordshire University

Student life» Graduation» On the day - important instructions» Order of proceedings

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