Ceremony details

We require our graduates to identify their number of guests during registration. This is to ensure that we stay within the capacity limits of the venue. In order for every graduate to have the opportunity to invite guests, we request each grad limit their guests to a maximum of four. Lap-sitting infants and toddlers are not included in guest limits.

Depending on registration numbers, you may be able to bring more than four guests.

Seating at convocation is first-come, first-served. All ceremonies will be livestreamed for family and friends of graduates unable to attend in person.

Whether you choose to participate in convocation or not, all eligible graduands who have applied to graduate will receive a grad package with a cap and tassel, and mementos from AU. Your grad package will be mailed in May via Canada Post to the address listed in your MyAU account. To prevent delays, please ensure your address is up to date.

GradPhotos.ca is the official photographer for Athabasca University. You can book a convocation day photo session ahead of time or drop by to reserve an available time slot.

You may book an appointment at any time of year to visit their studio in Edmonton, Alta. for a photo session in the official AU cap, gown, and hood for your degree.

Most photography studios in your area that offer graduation portraits will have a standard black graduation gown and cap available for use. Convocation hoods are available for purchase.

As part of Athabasca University’s graduation regalia, graduands are required to wear a gown, hood, cap and tassel for our convocation ceremonies. Attendees will be provided with a complimentary rental gown and hood to wear during the ceremony. Please remember to bring the cap and tassel included in your grad package. While the gown covers most of your clothing, your collar, legs, and feet will be visible when crossing the stage to receive your degree.

All grads have the option to purchase a hood prior to convocation if you prefer to wear and keep your own. Orders are fulfilled when graduation status is confirmed by the Office of the Registrar. Hood orders submitted after May 31, 2024 will be processed and shipped in July.

The Office of the Registrar mails your parchment shortly after the graduation date provided in your confirmation letter.

Your name, as it is recorded on your student academic record, will be displayed on your parchment. If you have recently changed your name, or would like to make changes to what we have recorded on your student file, you must officially notify the Office of the Registrar by completing and submitting the Student Change of Information form.

If you attend convocation in person, you will be presented with a congratulatory letter from AU as you cross the stage. Please do not bring your parchment with you.