Graduation Day in Universities Abroad
A once-in-a-lifetime moment for every student, the graduation ceremony is a formal event that marks the successful completion of a course of study. Graduation day often gives students a chance to celebrate their happiness of completing their efforts to get their much coveted and highly reputed college degree. This article covers complete details on the graduation day ceremony (aka graduation ceremony).
Graduation day ceremony for international students is a momentous occasion culminating in years of hard work, cultural adaptation, and personal growth. But what exactly happens on this special day? This article covers details on the graduation ceremony in universities abroad, including the graduation day dress, graduation day speech, the programme procession and everything in between!
Table of Contents:
- What is a Graduation Ceremony?
- What is Graduation Day Abroad Like?
- Pre-Graduation Ceremony Jitters | Preparations
- What Happens on a Graduation Day?
- Top 10 Quotes of Graduation Day
- Graduation Ceremony Speech
- How to Write a Short Graduation Day Speech?
- Graduation Day FAQs
What is a Graduation Ceremony?
The Graduation Ceremony, aka Graduation Day, means a special event that celebrates the successful achievements of school/college students after they have completed their education at a school, college or university. For international students getting their higher education abroad, a graduation ceremony calls for a special emotion as it marks the successful culmination of their hard work and dedication.
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What are Some Other Names for a Graduation Day?
The graduation ceremony is addressed with different names at different places, owing to its importance and the events involved in this joyous ceremony. The several names by which the graduation ceremony is also addressed are:
- Convocation: the term used mainly in some commonwealth nations to address degree-level graduations and some other academic occasions.
- Prize-giving Ceremony: a term used in the UK for academic occasions that might include elements of graduation, often used for high school or younger students.
- Degree/Diploma Ceremony: often descriptive terms and used for the distribution of diplomas or degrees.
- Closing Ceremony: a term used for graduation ceremonies, often in non-traditional educational settings.
- Commencement: the term used particularly in the United States for degree level of graduation.
This was all about the graduation day synonyms. Let us understand when is graduation day celebrated in different countries.
When is Graduation Day Celebrated?
Graduation day celebrations don't have a single universal date around the world. It depends on the educational institution's academic calendar. Here is the breakdown of events for graduation day abroad.
Usually, the graduation day is followed by the completion of an academic year. This period may vary according to different educational systems, universities and countries.
For instance, in the USA, most universities hold the graduation ceremony in the month of either May or June while the universities in the UK hold the graduation ceremony in the month of July.
Universities in some other countries reportedly celebrate graduation days in the fall cycle (September to November).
If you wish to seek information on different university’s graduation processions and events then, you must check the official website of the university or college you're interested in. They usually have a dedicated page for academic calendars or information on graduation days.
What is Graduation Day Abroad Like?
A graduation ceremony abroad may share some interesting similarities and differences with the graduation day celebrations in your home country. Let us look at some possible similarities and differences below.
Similarities
A graduation ceremony abroad can be similar to the one in your home country in the following manner:
- An Event of Celebrations: Celebrated anywhere, graduation day is joyous students for students, their families and friends as this day awards them the much-awaited degrees for their years of hard work and dedicated studies.
- Degree Distribution: Except for universities/colleges that hand over the degrees to students in a separate visit, the main purpose of colleges and universities to organise a graduation day is to distribute the degrees/diplomas and certificates.
- Faculty Speeches and Recognitions: Speeches from faculty, distinguished guests, or student representatives are common.
The above elements are a common part of graduation day ceremonies and you may find these in graduations abroad as well as in your home country.
Differences
The following differences may be observed in graduation ceremonies in your home countries and abroad.
- Addressing the Graduation: The graduation ceremony may be denoted with different names at different locations and institutions such as graduation day, closing ceremony, convocation, etc
- Academic Regalia: Universities in different localities might call for different graduation day dresses. However, the dress code mostly remains formal. For example, in the Netherlands, the students are often required to a traditional academic cap with the university’s specific colour and in India, both Indian (Sarees) and Western formals are accepted.
- Formality of the Occasion: The level of formality of the graduation day may differ from country to country. For instance, in the UK, a graduation day is quite a formal event, contributed by academic processions and other elements. While, in other locations, a graduation ceremony is more of a relaxed event.
- Post-graduation Ceremony Celebrations: In some universities, the graduation ceremony is followed by a group dinner. Usually, during post-graduation day celebrations, students head out with their friends and families and celebrate.
Pre-Graduation Ceremony Jitters
Even though the graduation ceremony is a one-day event, it takes weeks to prepare for this most important day of a student's life. Here is what you can expect during the preliminary period of the graduation day’s preparations.
- Graduation Ceremony Dress: The graduation day dress holds a significant place when it comes to the culmination of students’ educational journey. Hence, the first order of business for the graduating students is securing the graduation ceremony dress. Some universities often have specific vendors for providing students with graduation caps and gowns, either for renting or purchasing. Students must note to inquire about their availabilities well in time and also inquire about the specific colour codes and the associated accessories.
- Graduation Ceremony Invitation Card: Most universities distribute invitation cards for the graduation ceremony (or tickets) to graduating students to secure a seat for themselves and a limited number of other guests. Ensure that you collect these tickets from your respective college/department heads well in advance and distribute these timely if you are expecting your friends and family to join in the function.
- Rehearsals: A major part of preparing for the graduation ceremony in universities and colleges abroad involves rehearsing for the graduation day. Attending graduation rehearsals is crucial for all the students as these sessions familiarise you with the ceremony flow, seating arrangements, and proper etiquette during processionals and recessional lines.
- Diploma/degree Pickup: Double-check with your college/university about the deadline and procedure for picking up the diploma/degree. This is because while all universities and colleges celebrate the graduation day for graduating students, some distribute the degree and diplomas on the same day of the graduation ceremony while some prefer to organise a different visit for the collection of diploma/degree.
What Happens on a Graduation Day?
Below is a breakdown of the typical graduation ceremony abroad.
The Procession
The great graduation day event unfolds with the procession of teachers and going-to-be graduate students. This is often the most exciting part of the graduation ceremony abroad which takes place in two parts, i.e. by faculty members and by students as given below.
- Faculty and Dignitaries: The graduation ceremony usually opens with a dignified procession of faculty members, university officials, and distinguished guests in their academic regalia.
- Graduates' March: The highlight of a graduation ceremony is the procession of the graduating students. Graduates, dressed in their graduation gowns and caps, march in, often organised by faculty or program. Some universities may incorporate cultural elements in the procession, like traditional music, attire or accessories.
The Ceremony
Below is the breakdown of the main events that happen on a graduation day other than the procession of teachers and fresh graduates.
- Welcome Speech and Opening Remarks: A university official or faculty member will welcome everyone and deliver opening remarks, setting the tone for the momentous occasion, graduation day.
- Guest Speaker: The graduation ceremony often features a renowned guest speaker, alumnus, or prominent figure who delivers an inspirational address, offering wisdom and encouragement to the graduating class.
- Awarding of Degrees: This is the heart of the graduation ceremony. The dean or program director calls each graduate's name, and as each student arrives on stage, the dean hands over the degree to them often with a brief handshake or a personalised message. Students take pride in this moment, walk confidently across the stage, and acknowledge their accomplishments with a smile.
- Speeches and Presentations: Some universities might have student representatives or valedictorians (top rankers) deliver speeches reflecting on their experiences throughout their course’s journey and offering words of gratitude.
- Honorary Degrees: Some prestigious universities might bestow honorary degrees upon distinguished individuals who have made significant contributions to their field.
The Finale
The finale propagates the graduation day celebrations towards its end. Here is how the graduation ceremony finale comes off.
- The Turning of the Tassel: This symbolic gesture marks the transition from student to graduate. As your name is called, you will move the tassel from the right side of your cap to the left, signifying completed studies.
- The National Anthem: Most ceremonies close with the playing of the national anthem, a moment of shared pride and unity for the graduating class and their guests.
- The Recessional: Graduates then exit the venue in a celebratory recessional line, often accompanied by music or applause. This marks the formal end of the ceremony.
Top 10 Graduation Day Quotes
The quotes for graduation day can serve as a source of inspiration, motivation, and reflection for graduates as they step into the future. Some of the best quotes for the graduation ceremony are given below.
- “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” - Eleanor Roosevelt
- “Don't be afraid to give up the good to go for the great.” - John D. Rockefeller
- “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” - Nelson Mandela
- “Don't cry because it's over. Smile because it happened.” - Dr. Seuss
- “The only person you are destined to become is the person you decide to be.” - Ralph Waldo Emerson
- “You may never know what results come of your action, but if you do nothing there will be no result at all.” - Leonardo da Vinci
- “Don't underestimate the power of your dreams.” - Harriet Tubman
- “Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.” - Arthur Ashe
- “There are far, far better things ahead than any we leave behind.” - C.S. Lewis
- “Education is not preparation for life; education is life itself.” - John Dewey
Graduation Ceremony Speech
A graduation speech is an address delivered to graduating students and their fellow guests during a graduation ceremony. There are two main types of speeches delivered on a graduation day as given below.
- Commencing Graduation Speech: The commencement speech is typically delivered by a notable guest speaker, like a successful professional, politician, or an inspirational figure. It focuses on offering broader advice and inspiring graduates for the future beyond academics.
- Student Speeches on Graduation: Often delivered by the valedictorian (the trident with the highest grades in the class) or the salutatorian (student with the second highest grades in the class) and reflect upon the joint experiences of the whole graduating class. This speech acknowledges faculty and staff and expresses excitement for the future.
How to Write a Short Graduation Day Speech?
Graduation speeches hold a special importance for students and the ones joining them for this speech enhance their experience of their most important academic day - the graduation day.
Before you write, analyse your audience, tailor your speech to your fellow graduates, keep it concise and don’t deviate from the central message. Below are a few tips to write a short graduation speech for students to make their special day even more memorable.
- Start off with a Hook: Grab attention with a relatable anecdote, a funny observation, or a thought-provoking question. This will engage your audience and keep them focused throughout the speech.
- Acknowledge the journey: Briefly mention the challenges and triumphs you all have experienced together. If possible, add little instances from the times that take all your batch mates back to the good old times.
- Express gratitude: Don’t forget to thank your teachers, mentors, family, and friends for their support.
- Look towards the future: A decent quote or a resolution, share some words of encouragement for the exciting path ahead.
- End with a memorable closing: Leave your classmates with a lasting impression by using a powerful quote, a call to action, or a hopeful message.
Short Graduation Speech Samples
Below are 3 examples of short graduation speeches for the graduating students.
Graduation Speech 1: The Next Chapter
"Hi everyone! We made it! Today marks the end of a chapter, but the beginning of an amazing story we will write ourselves. Thank you to all who supported us. Here’s to the future – let's make it unforgettable!"
Graduation Speech 2: Unexpected Heroes
"Class of [Year], who knew these halls would hold so many surprises? Thanks to the professors who challenged us, the friends who had our backs, and everyone who made this journey unforgettable. Here's to the next adventure!"
Short Graduation Speech 3: Seeds of Change
"We arrived as seedlings, but today, we're ready to bloom. Thanks to our teachers for nurturing us with their unparalleled knowledge. Let's use the knowledge we have grown to create a beautiful future. Congratulations!"
Graduation Day FAQs
Q. How many years does graduation take abroad?
A. Graduation generally reflects the length of the completed degree program. Undergrad programs abroad can take up to 3-4 years, while master's programs might take 1-2 years.
Q. What to wear on a graduation day?
A. The graduation day dress is usually a graduation gown and cap which are worn over regular formal clothing. However, as the formality and colour codes may differ for differ across universities, students must ask for and learn about their university’s graduation day dresses beforehand.
Q. What is a graduation day song?
A. The core purpose of a graduation song is to celebrate the achievements of the graduates and mark their transition to a new chapter. A graduation song abroad is not necessarily a different song entirely as some countries and universities might have graduation songs specific to their culture or university traditions.
However, "Graduation song" might not be the universal term. You might encounter terms like "commencement song" (US) or "convocation hymn" (Commonwealth nations) in the university of your choice.
Q. When is a degree awarded after the completion of the course?
A. A degree (or diploma) is usually awarded after the completion of a student’s course journey. It can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months for your degree to be conferred after you complete your course.
Q. Why is graduation day important?
A. A graduation day is important because it celebrates the culmination of years of hard work and marks the beginning of a new chapter in a student’s life. It is the time to reflect on achievements, express gratitude, and look towards an exciting future.
Q. Why you should not miss your graduation day?
A. While graduation day is the biggest day of a student’s life as it rewards them with their much-deserved academic degrees, below are a few reasons why one must not miss their graduation day celebrations. A graduation day is a chance to:
- Celebrate your achievements & milestones.
- Share the joy with loved ones who supported you.
- Make lasting memories with classmates.
Q. What is the graduation ceremony dress's name?
A. The formal attire worn at graduation ceremonies is typically called academic regalia. It consists of a few key components:
- Gown: A long, flowing robe worn over the graduate's clothing.
- Cap: Usually a square academic cap, also known as a mortarboard.
- Hood: A draped piece of fabric attached to the back of the gown, often colour-coded to represent the degree earned.
While these are the main components, there can be variations based on the specific institution or level of degree.
Q. What is a graduation called?
A. Graduation day is the most common term for the day of the graduation ceremony. However, a graduation ceremony is often referred to by the following terms:
- Commencement: This is the most common term, signifying the "beginning" of a new chapter.
- Convocation: This term is also frequently used, especially in some regions or institutions.
- Graduation: While this can refer to the act of graduating itself, it's also commonly used to denote the ceremony.
These terms are often used interchangeably, depending on the institution and region.
Q. What is the process of graduation ceremony?
A. A graduation ceremony typically follows a structured format. The general process involved is described below.
- Academic Procession: Faculty, administrators, and graduates enter the ceremony in a formal procession which is often accompanied by music.
- Opening Remarks: A welcome address by the university president or chancellor takes place. This also includes the introduction of honoured guests.
- Speeches: The keynote address is delivered by a distinguished speaker along with speeches by faculty, students, or alumni representatives.
- Awarding of Degrees: Graduates walk across the stage to receive their diplomas or degrees. This is the main event of the evening and is often accompanied by music and applause. Honours and awards may also be presented to distinguished scholars at this time.
- Conferring of Degrees: This is a formal declaration by the university president or chancellor that the graduates have earned their degrees.
- Closing Remarks: Final words from the university president or chancellor are delivered before the closing of the graduation day event of the year.
- Recessional: Graduates and faculty exit the ceremony in a formal procession, this is also often accompanied by music.
Note: The specific order and content of a graduation ceremony across universities can vary depending on the institution and level of degree.
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