Graduations
Graduation day is a momentous occasion for every student and a highlight in the University’s calendar.
The ceremony marks the culmination of years of hard work, and is a day to celebrate with friends and family.
Every year, the University confers about 5,000 degrees and 250 diplomas and certificates.
Full details of all our graduation ceremonies are available on our Registry Services website.
Iconic location
All graduation ceremonies take place in the beautiful McEwan Hall.
Presented to the University in 1897 by William McEwan as a ceremonial hall for graduations and as a gift to the people of Edinburgh.
This iconic Grade A listed building was designed by Sir Rowand Anderson, with lavish interiors by William Palin. Construction was completed in 1894, but it took another three years to complete the interior designs, the centrepiece being the 15 beautifully painted mural panels that make up the vast dome.
A painstaking multi-million pound refurbishment has restored much of the intricacy to its original beauty and created a modern, superbly equipped space, with state-of-the-art audio visual equipment and accessible facilities.
Find McEwan Hall on campus maps
The ceremonies
The graduation ceremonies follow time-honoured traditions, some of which can be traced back to the founding of the University in 1583.
From the carrying of the mace in the academic procession, to the ‘bonnet’, with which the Principal doffs the heads of students, it is a solemn but exciting occasion.
` 
` 
` 
`
Honorary graduates
Conferring honorary degrees on distinguished public figures makes graduation day all the more special for students, who receive their degrees in illustrious company.
Among the many distinguished names honoured in recent years are JK Rowling, Chris Hoy, Michael Palin, Jackie Stewart and Professor Daniel Dennett.
Graduation gifts
Visit the University Visitor Centre or our online gift shop for official University gifts.
Find the University Visitor Centre on campus maps
Alumni services
After you graduate, there will always be a place for you at Edinburgh.
Keep in touch with your friends and the University through our worldwide alumni network.