Frequently Asked Questions - Graduates

What do I need to do to graduate?

If you believe that you have completed the requirements for your degree you should lodge an application to graduate via StudentConnect.

Applications to graduate are open from mid-November until the end of January for March/April ceremonies, and in July for October ceremonies. If you are unable to access the application to graduate during these times please contact the Graduations Office.

I do not want to attend a graduation ceremony but want to receive my testamur

If you wish to graduate without attending a graduation ceremony you must submit an online application to graduate via StudentConnect. You should select the in absentia option. Your testamur will then be sent to your registered postal address after your degree has been conferred at the graduation ceremony.

Important: Please ensure that your current postal address and contact phone number is registered on the University database.

If the timing is not right, can I graduate at a later round of ceremonies?

Yes, students are welcome to graduate at a later round of ceremonies if this is more suitable. Your status will remain as "Eligible to Graduate".

You can apply to defer your graduation by selecting the 'DEFER' option through StudentConnect.

How much does it cost to graduate?

If you choose the attend the graduation ceremony the graduation charge is $132. This charge includes the hire of your regalia, two guest tickets, ceremony program and light refreshments for you and your guests after the ceremony.

If you choose to graduate in absentia there is no charge and your testamur will be sent to your registered postal address after the ceremony.

What should I wear to a graduation ceremony?

Please wear smart, neat or professional attire as a minimum dress standard. Shorts, jeans, t-shirts, thongs, barefeet or joggers are not considered appropriate.

How do I purchase my own regalia?

If you wish to purchase your own regalia, this can be ordered through the Deakin Merchandise shop. Please allow at least six weeks for this service.

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How many guests can I bring?

The $132 graduation fee includes 2 guest tickets.

Approximately 4-6 weeks prior to the graduation ceremony information regarding the purchase of additional guest tickets will be sent to graduands who are eligible to graduate and have applied to attend the graduation ceremony. Subject to availability additional guest tickets (in addition to the two included in the graduation charge) may be purchased by following the instructions in the ceremony information. The additional guest tickets purchased should be collected from the Box Office on the day of the ceremony.

Please note: Guest tickets are non-refundable.

Can I get a refund of my graduation fee?

Please advise the Graduations Office via email if you are no longer able to attend your graduation ceremony.

A Full refund of the graduation fee is given if at least 4 weeks notice of your inability to attend is given from date of graduation ceremony.

$25.00 retention fee is payable if notice is given between 2 - 4 weeks from date of graduation ceremony.

No refund is available if less than 2 weeks notice from date of graduation ceremony is given.

How can I change my name?

If you need to change your graduation name you should send a certified copy of your name change documentation to the Graduations Office, Deakin University, Locked Bag 20000, GEELONG  VIC  3220 Australia together with your student number and date of birth.

How long will the ceremony last?

This will depend on the number of graduands attending. Generally ceremonies are of approximately 1.5 hours in duration. Graduates are expected to remain for the duration of the ceremony as a courtesy to other graduates and guests.

Where are graduation ceremonies held?

Please refer to graduation dates and venues.

Can I bring children to the ceremony?

Yes, however the ceremony for small children could be considered a little long and formal. If children are coming to a ceremony, parents are encouraged to bring along quiet activities to keep them entertained. If children become unsettled, disruptive or noisy parents/carers may be politely asked to leave the ceremony with the child until they are settled. Children who occupy a seat will require a ticket.

What time should I arrive for the graduation ceremony?

Graduands need to arrive around 2 hours prior to the start time for registration, gowning and the graduate briefing for on protocols for the ceremony. Graduands arriving late will not be admitted to the ceremony. An information package detailing arrival time will be sent prior to the ceremony.

What should I do if I am late?

Where possible please phone 03 9244 6333 to inform us if you believe you may not be at the venue 30 minutes before your cermeony start time.

Registration will close 30 minutes before the start of the ceremony. If you arrive after this time you will not be permitted to take part in the ceremony, however you will be permitted to be robed for photography purposes only.

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What should I do if I require special assistance?

You can indicate your requirements through StudentConnect when you submit your online application to graduate. Alternatively you could email graduations@deakin.edu.au or call (03) 5227 2968.

What does in absentia mean?

To graduate "in absentia" means your qualification is officially "conferred" by the University Chancellery in your absence and your qualification goes on public record. If the in absentia option is chosen, you do not attend the ceremony and your testamur is sent to your current postal address following the graduation. Graduation in absentia is a no cost option.

If you apply to graduate in absentia please ensure your postal address and contact phone number are up to date on StudentConnect to avoid delays in the delivery of your testamur.

Will I still get a copy of my results if I don't graduate?

Yes, students deemed eligible to graduate by their Faculty, who do not graduate will still receive an Academic Transcript posted to their current StudentConnect postal address. Upon receipt of your Academic Transcript please check the details to ensure accuracy including any majors.

What happens if I am advised that I am not eligible to graduate?

You will be notified by mail if you have applied to graduate but have been deemed not yet eligible by the Faculty. Please contact the Faculty staff member nominated in the advice letter to resolve any questions about your graduation status.

If I choose not to graduate, are my qualifications still valid?

Yes, provided you have completed all units for your qualification and subject to confirmation by your Faculty. Your status however will be deemed as "Eligible to Graduate" and as such the University will be limited in what information it can release under the Privacy Act to potential employers.

More information?

If you are still unclear on policy or process for graduations please contact the Graduations Office with your enquiry and provide your student number via emailing graduations@deakin.edu.au or by calling (03) 5227 2968.

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9th January 2012