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Graduation

On the day

Last updated: 10/07/2026 09:42

It’s nearly time! We’re looking forward to welcoming you and your guests to Graduation. Here are ten things to answer last-minute questions and help you make the most of your day.

Graduation weather update

The forecast for Graduation looks sunny and warm – great news for photos! However, please make sure you and your guests stay hydrated and wear light clothing where possible.

At Utilita Arena, guests may bring:

  • A small handheld fan
  • One clear plastic bottle of water (maximum 600ml).

Please do not bring metal, ceramic, glass, or opaque bottles into the Arena.

Free drinking water is available:

A cool room is available on Level 2 of Utilita Arena. If you need access, speak to a member of staff.

In the Centre for Student Life, the air conditioning will be set to its coolest setting.

If you or any of your guests feel unwell at any point, speak to a member of staff, and we will do our best to assist.

1. Get your tickets ready

Your tickets, including guest tickets, will be emailed to you before your Graduation ceremony by Marston Events. You’ll use the same ticket to access Utilita Arena and Graduation Gardens.

Be prepared, download or screenshot your tickets in advance. Graduates and guests use different entrances at the Utilita Arena - make sure your guests have access to their ticket.

Please do not attend without tickets. For your safety, security measures are in place, and tickets are not available on the day.

Anyone unable to attend can watch ceremonies broadcast live online and at the Students’ Union.

2. Plan your journey

Cardiff has strong transport links and is an easily accessible city. To help you plan ahead, read our information on travel, parking, accommodation and accessibility.

Your Graduation venues are:

3. Organise your schedule

Your ceremony may take place before, or after your school reception - check your school’s schedule.

Give yourself enough time to move between venues:

  • Centre for Student Life to Graduation Gardens – 10-minute walk
  • Cathays campus venues to Utilita Arena – 25-30 minute walk

Please get to the Utilita Arena 45 minutes before the start of your ceremony. Guests should arrive 30 minutes before.

Allow plenty of time to collect your academic dress and for studio photography at the Centre for Student Life, especially at busy times.

4. Get your gown

Collect and return your gown, hood and hat with Marston Events at the Centre for Student Life.

Your collection time may be the evening before or on the day of your ceremony. The deadline to return your academic dress depends on the time of your ceremony. Find your collection and return time.

5. Capture the moment with studio photography

Photography takes place at the Centre for Student Life.

If you haven’t booked, check the Tempest Photography website or ask staff about availability on the day.

6. Enjoy the big moment - your ceremony at Utilita Arena

Staff will direct you to the right place when you arrive.

Remember, you’ll use a different entrance to your guests - make sure they have their tickets. Guest seat numbers are on their ticket and cannot be changed.

For your safety, bag searches will be conducted on arrival. Only one small bag per person is permitted and please don’t bring food, drink or any other prohibited items.

When you enter the arena:

  • go to the name card collection desk. Keep your name card safe; you’ll need it when you cross the stage.
  • give your bag, coat and phone to your guests, or use the free cloakroom. You’ll move around the venue and change seats after you cross the stage.
  • follow staff directions to your seat.

The ceremony will last approximately 1.5 hours.

At the end of the ceremony, you’ll follow the procession out of the arena. As you head outside, please keep moving to make way for all the graduates coming out behind you. Arrange a meeting point to help find your guests, as they will leave from a different exit.

7. Celebrate your success at Graduation Gardens

School receptions are a chance to celebrate with fellow graduates, guests and staff. Toast your achievements, enjoy the music and snap some pics!

You and your guests access Graduation Gardens with your Graduation tickets. No tickets are available on the day. Bag searches will be conducted on arrival.

8. Share your #CardiffGrad moments

Follow along with Graduation on social media and share your #CardiffGrad moments – we’d love to see them!

Photography and videography take place throughout Graduation. Footage will appear on our website and social media. Graduates and guests consent to this publication by participating in Graduation events.

9. Grab your merch and join the party

The Students’ Union has Cardiff University-branded merchandise to commemorate your time at university. They are also hosting a Graduation YOLO.

10. Make sure you can graduate

To be eligible to attend Graduation you must successfully complete your course before your Graduation Day and settle all fees and outstanding debts with the University.

If you are no longer able to attend, please let us know. Email registrysupport@cardiff.ac.uk before 17 July to discuss possible refunds.