The big day is coming soon – discover what to bring on the day and top tips from fellow graduates.
Welcome to the Countdown to Cap and Gown series where we’ll be sharing insightful blogs ahead of your graduation. In this first article, we'll take you through everything you can do to prepare for the day, as well as some top tips and tricks.
Planning your day
There is so much going on at graduation, that it can feel overwhelming. But having a think about how you want to spend the day can make it much more enjoyable. Whether it’s booking your favourite spot for lunch, organising your parking or finding out where to collect your academic dress, planning your day helps everything run smoothly.
It’s also an essential reminder to arrive with plenty of time too. Doors close ten minutes before each ceremony, and this is something you’re not going to want to miss.
To find out more information about the celebrations, visit the .
Academic dress hire and photography
Securing your academic dress is one of the first things to do once you’ve booked your tickets. Academic dress can be booked through our recommended supplier Graduation Attire, and it’s important to do this as soon as possible. Make sure you book before 6 June 2025 to avoid any late fees.
Professional photography can be booked through too, with a range of options available. Whilst this isn’t mandatory, it’s a wonderful keepsake with friends and family to remember the celebrations for the rest of your life. When planning your day, we recommend heading to Ravelin after your ceremony for your professional photography - it’s not worth rushing around before!
What to bring with you
- Bottle of water - Graduation takes place in the middle of summer. We’re crossing our fingers for a sunny day of celebrations, but it’s important to stay hydrated throughout the day too!
- Spare shoes - It’s a long day, and whether it's walking between your photo spots or getting comfortable after your ceremony, you might want to bring a suitable pair of shoes to make sure you can enjoy the day fully.
- Safety pins, hair pins and a mirror - Make sure you’re looking your best, and hold your academic dress in place for the many photos that will be taken. Scroll down for a top tip from a fellow graduate on where it’s best to place your pin.
- Your e-tickets - Make sure to carry them with you throughout the day to get into your ceremony. And if you want to bring more people to celebrate with you, don’t forget to book your additional tickets before 27 June 2025.
Graduation top tips
Hear from those who came before you. Fellow ºÚÁÏÈë¿Ú graduates shared one piece of advice for you on your graduation day. Read what they had to say here:
Firstly, ATTEND. Secondly, take as many pictures with your friends and family as possible, as this is a great day to look back on. Lastly, make sure to book a restaurant in advance so you don't miss out.
Bring plenty of small safety pins to fix your hood in place before the ceremony! Be aware that it looks best if you can pin the lowest part of the "V" at the front of the hood to clothing that won't pull upwards. You'll look so much better in all the photos your friends and family take. And enjoy your big day!
The best piece of advice I can give someone on graduation day is: don't be nervous. There are over 100 students in the same position as you, and it's completely normal to feel a bit anxious standing in front of a large crowd. Just remember to take in the moment. Don’t stress too much—this day is all about celebrating your hard work and achievements. Live in the moment and enjoy the experience.
Breathe, don't stress and go easy on yourself! You have done the hard work to get here, and everyone is so proud of you. It can be overwhelming collecting your gowns, family arriving at different times and hair just not cooperating! But that all aside, today is about you. Don't focus on stressing about minuscule details, and give yourself plenty of time so you're not rushing.
Embrace it! Remember to take lots of photos and soak up the atmosphere. It really is a special occasion.
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We hope you have an incredible time at graduation. You’ve worked so hard to get here, so don’t forget to take a moment to reflect on everything you’ve achieved.
If you want to stay connected throughout graduation and beyond, don’t forget to join the , or follow the ºÚÁÏÈë¿Ú Alumni on , and .