5 things to know before your Winter Graduation Ceremony 2023

With Arden University’s Winter Graduation Ceremonies 2023 just around the corner preparations for the big day are in full swing.

As we eagerly await the arrival of our graduating students, here's some handy information to help you make the most of your big day.

When and where is my graduation ceremony?

Our Winter Graduation 2023 Ceremonies will both be taking place on Tuesday 28th November at Central Hall Westminster, Storey's Gate, London, SW1H 9NH. There will be one in the morning (starting at 10:30am) and one in the afternoon (starting at 3:30pm). You should have been notified which of the two ceremonies you should be attending.

We recommend you arrive at least 1½ hrs prior to the start time of your ceremony. This will give you time to register, collect your guests’ tickets, collect your gown, have your photographs taken, and take your seats.

Please make sure you are on time as you may not be able to graduate if you arrive late.

What happens when I arrive?

Make your way to the registration area, this will be situated in Westminster Foyer/Lower Ground Floor. There will be an attended cloakroom on Level 1 where you can leave your belongings.

There are lifts to all levels and toilets available on each floor. If you do require any special assistance, please let a member of our team know as soon as possible and we will be happy to assist.

Ticket Collection:

All graduates and guests need to register on arrival. The registration and ticket collection desk will be situated in Westminster Foyer/Lower Ground Floor. Extra guest tickets can be purchased with card payment only and are subject to availability.

Academic Dress:

Once you have collected your tickets you should proceed immediately to collect your Academic Dress. Graduation Attire will have your pre-ordered gown ready for collection in Aldersgate/Lower Ground Floor.

Pre-paid Official Photography:

If you have pre-ordered official photography, this will take place in Aldersgate/Lower Ground Floor after you have collected your Academic Dress. You will need to pre-book your packages before the ceremony, you can do this up to 10 days beforehand.

Taking your seat:

All students and guests are asked to take their seats by 10:15 at the latest for the morning session, and 15:15 at the latest for the afternoon.

Graduates or guests will not be able to enter the Great Hall once the ceremony has begun.

Once seated please remain in your seat for the duration of the ceremony.

What happens during the ceremony?

Ushers will guide you to your allocated seat upon entry to the room.

The ceremony will then begin, where there will be speeches from key members of the university including Arden’s Provost – Professor Dr Yang (Lucy) Lu, Professor Ann Tate C.B.E, Chair of Board of Directors, Dace Rozina, Student President, and one of Arden’s Honorary Graduates.

Staff will guide graduates out of their seats and up to the stage when it is their turn to graduate. After you have returned from the stage an usher will direct you back to your seat.

No food or drink will be allowed in the Great Hall.

Please do not change seats at any point as your name will not be announced.

What happens at the Reception?

Following the ceremony, everyone is invited to attend the alumni reception in the Library-Lecture Hall/Level 1. Keep your ticket and exchange it to enjoy a complimentary drink whilst celebrating with your fellow graduates, guests, and Arden academics.

There will be a merchandise stand where you will be able to purchase a variety of Arden-branded goods.

There will also be a careers stand, where you will be able to chat with one of our experienced career’s team members, and staff at hand on the day to tell you about postgraduate study options with the university.

Drop off points for your academic robes will be in the library-Lecture Hall and must be returned no later than 13:00 for the morning session, or 18:00.