Monday 22-06-2026 - 10:00

After years of lectures, deadlines, all-nighters and questionable meal deals, graduation is finally here. Before you start planning the perfect Instagram post to commemorate your degree, there are a few important things to tick off your list.

Here’s everything you actually need to do before the big day.

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1. Check your ceremony date and time

First things first, make sure you know exactly when you’re graduating.

Manchester Met publishes the full graduation schedule online, so double-check your ceremony date, time and venue as soon as possible. Your graduation ceremony will take place at Bridgewater Hall, but you’ll need to arrive much earlier to complete registration, collect your robes and have any official photography taken. The University recommends arriving at least 2.5 hours before the ceremony starts.

Adding the date to your calendar now will save you from any last-minute panic later.

 

2. Book your robes

One of the most important items on your checklist.

All graduates must wear appropriate academic dress for their ceremony, and Manchester Met’s official supplier, Ede and Ravenscroft, makes the process straightforward. Simply select Manchester Metropolitan University, choose your ceremony and award, and the correct robe will be assigned automatically.

The deadline to book robes is 30 June, booking before this deadline will save you money and ensures your size is available. Don’t leave it until the day, robes are more expensive, and availability can’t be guaranteed!

 

3. Plan your photography

You’ll probably take hundreds of photos on graduation day, but it’s worth thinking ahead about the shots you really want.

Manchester Met’s official photography provider, Ede and Ravenscroft, offers professional graduation photography both before and during graduation. Booking in advance for professional photos on the day is required, however a walk in service is provided on 14, 15, 16 May.

It’s also worth creating a mini photo checklist:

• Family photos

• Friendship group photos

• Course mate photos

• A solo cap-and-gown shot

• The classic Bridgewater Hall photo

• A celebratory photo outside The Midland Hotel

 

4. Invite your guests

One of the most exciting parts of graduation is sharing the day with the people who have supported you throughout your time at university.

When you book your graduation place, you’ll be able to request up to two £10 guest tickets. If additional tickets become available after the 29th May they’ll be released on a first-come, first-served basis, although availability isn’t guaranteed.

As soon as you’ve secured your tickets, let your guests know the details so they can plan travel, accommodation and time off work if needed. Graduation ceremonies can be busy, particularly in the city centre, so giving everyone plenty of notice will make the day run more smoothly.

If you have family or friends who can’t attend in person, Manchester Met also streams ceremonies online, meaning they can still celebrate the moment from wherever they are.

 

5. Plan your outfit

Your graduation gown may be the star of the show, but you’ll still want to feel confident in what you’re wearing underneath.

Graduation ceremonies involve a lot more standing, walking and posing for photos than most people expect, so comfort is just as important as style. If you’re planning on wearing new shoes, consider breaking them in beforehand, and remember that you’ll likely be on your feet for most of the day.

It’s also worth checking the weather forecast in advance. Manchester’s weather has a habit for doing its own thing, so having a backup plan for rain is never a bad idea.

Most importantly, choose something that makes you feel like the best version of yourself. You’re celebrating years of hard work; your outfit should reflect that.

 

6. Get your official Man Met merch

Graduation only happens once, so if you’ve had your eye on a Manchester Met hoodie, mug, teddy bear or keepsake, now’s the time.

Many graduates choose to pick up official University merchandise as a reminder of their time at Manchester Met, whether that’s for themselves or as a gift for family members who supported them through their degree. Merch will be available at the ceremony, but to avoid disappointment on the day the online shop is taking orders now.

Plus, let’s be honest, a graduation photo isn’t complete without at least one piece of celebratory merch.

 

7. Make a day of it

Graduation only happens once, so don’t rush off as soon as the ceremony ends.

Whether you’re heading out for lunch with family, drinks with friends or a celebratory dinner, planning something afterwards gives you the chance to properly enjoy the occasion. It’s also one of the last times you’ll have everyone from your course together before people take off in different directions.

Take plenty of photos, revisit your favourite study spots around campus and spend time with the people who helped make your university experience what it was.

 

Final Checklist:

• Confirmed your ceremony date and time

• Booked your robes

• Planned or booked your photography

• Invited family and friends and shared all info

• Chosen your graduation outfit

• Checked the weather forecast

• Ordered any Manchester Met merchandise

• Charged your phone and prepared for lots of photos

• Made plans to celebrate afterwards

• Taken a moment to appreciate how far you’ve come

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Congratulations, Class of 2026! Graduation marks the end of one chapter and the beginning of the next, enjoy every moment- you’ve earned it.