Covid-19 measures for graduation ceremonies

We are committed to doing all we can to ensure you and your guests enjoy your special day, safely. 

We have put in place additional measures for our January 2022 ceremonies and it's important that you fully observe the measures indicated below.

Please do not attend your ceremony if you (or your guests) have any Covid-19 symptoms

All graduands and their guests must:

All graduates, guests and staff participating in our ceremonies will need to take a lateral flow test within 24 hours before you arrive.

You need to bring proof of your negative lateral flow test with you – this will be the text or email you receive when reporting the test result with the NHS. This will be checked before you can enter ticketed venues.

If you can't prove a negative test, you will be asked to take a lateral flow test on campus. 

After you collect your tickets, you will be asked to show proof of your negative lateral flow test (taken within the previous 24 hours). Once checked, you will then be given a wristband to be shown when entering ticketed venues.

Please allow extra time in your schedule to allow for these checks to be carried out.

It is mandatory that all graduands and guests wear a face covering in internal venues (unless exempt), including in Central Hall throughout your ceremony.

Graduands are permitted to remove their face covering when walking across the stage to greet the Vice-Chancellor - but you must put it back on after you leave the stage.

Capacity within Central Hall has been reduced to ensure we can space people adequately.

We will be managing queues and operating a one-way system - please listen to ushers and door staff for directions.

During the ceremony, when your name is called to cross the stage and meet the Vice-Chancellor, we're asking graduands to 'doff your cap' rather than shake hands. This means touching your cap and giving a small nod.

https://youtu.be/9Q3dlF972G8

Another measure to reduce risk is, sadly, to cancel all receptions associated with graduation. This includes any planned departmental events or gatherings.

Catering venues on campus will be open.

If you become unable to attend

If you're unable to attend your graduation ceremony, please contact the Graduation team: graduation@york.ac.uk