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Graduation
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Accessibility at graduation

As part of your graduation application, please let us know if you or any of your guests have a mobility impairment or any access requirements.

All students with a Student Support Plan are contacted before their graduation to discuss access requirements. We put in place a personalised plan in consultation with you to support you with your graduation experience.

Anyone can contact the Graduation team to discuss any access requirements you may have: graduation@york.ac.uk. 

Accessibility in Central Hall

Accessible seating is available in Central Hall, along with a lift and accessible toilet facilities. Please note that the University does not have any wheelchairs available for use or hire. 

A hearing loop is available and a BSL interpreter is available on request.

Wheelchair access for graduands

Graduation ceremonies take place in Central Hall and, generally, graduands cross the stage to receive their degree. Unfortunately there is currently no step-free access to the stage from the pit. Graduands unable to climb the stairs are seated on accessible platforms next to the stage and can have their guests or two friends from the graduating cohort sit with them.

A view of the stage set up during graduation in Central Hall

We can arrange for you to view the hall beforehand and check you are happy with your position or, if not, we can provide photographs of the space ahead of time. If you don’t feel comfortable sitting next to the stage during the ceremony, you can use the wheelchair spaces at the back of Central Hall, which are accessible by lift, and an usher will collect you when it is almost time for you to process. If you choose this option, you can bring your guests with you to the wheelchair seating area. 

Relaxed graduation

If you would prefer a quieter graduation experience, you may want to consider registering for our relaxed graduation ceremony. This ceremony is adapted to offer a more relaxed ceremony for anyone who prefers to graduate in a quieter and less formal setting. 

Academic gowns

If you have specific gowning requirements, add these into the special requirements box when placing your academic gown order. For example, if you use a wheelchair, our official gown suppliers can provide an academic gown that is adapted for use with a wheelchair. 

Religious observance

We welcome religious and cultural expression, and our official gowning company, Ede and Ravenscroft are experienced at helping graduands navigate religious expression and traditional academic dress in a way that feels authentic to them. If you wear a religious head covering, you can decide whether to wear a graduation cap in conjunction with it, or carry the graduation cap.

Getting to campus

The Park and Ride service from Grimston Bar to Campus Car Park South is fully accessible. Accessible car parking is also available in Campus Car Park South. See our travel and accommodation information.