Planning your day

This page contains information to help ensure your graduation day run smoothly.

Schedule of the day

Make sure you have a look at the Graduation programme before the graduation. That way you can make plans and ensure your day runs smoothly. 

Pre-book accommodation

We have a limited amount of good value accommodation available for graduating RAU students, family and friends. Single, twin en-suite bedrooms are available.

• Single en-suite bedroom for two nights (including breakfast): £125.00
• Twin en-suite bedroom for two nights (inbcluding breakfast): £205.00

If you would like to book accommodation or have any queries, please contact the Conference team on shortstay@rau.ac.uk.

Alternative accommodation can be found in Cirencester through the visitor information centre www.cirencester.co.uk/wheretostay/.

When you get here

Travel information

Information on how to reach the campus can be found here. 

Parking

There will be free parking available on the RAU campus. Please enter via the Stroud Road entrance. Parking Permits will be available from 1 September 2025.

Ticket collection

Admission to the Ceremony for all guests is by ticket only. All guest, including children, will require a ticket. As the graduating student, you do not need a ticket; but please ensure you have booked through Ede and Ravenscroft. 

Due to limited space, guest tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Bring your confirmation email to the registration desk on campus on the day of Graduation to collect your tickets.

You will also be able to collect drink tokens from the registration desk on the day.

Gown collection

Your gown is hired from Ede and Ravenscroft. You will be advised where to collect your gown and have your photographs taken (if pre-booked). 

Please note, students will not be permitted entry to the Graduation Ceremony without a gown.

Arrival at your ceremony

When you have collected your tickets and gown, you may proceed to the Graduation site at the front of the University. You will need to arrive at least 30 minutes before the ceremony starts. 

Please be aware that dogs are not allowed at the Ceremony.

Photography

Please avoid obstructing the view of other guests or causing a distraction when taking photographs.

Please avoid flash photography.

After the Ceremony

Return of hired hoods and gowns

Before you leave, please return your academic dress by 17:00 on the day of your Ceremony.