Information for graduates
Congratulations to all graduates on your academic success!
Prepare for your Convocation ceremony:
1. Apply to graduate
Students must complete the application to graduate to initiate the degree audit process. This step is a requirement regardless of your intent to attend convocation.
2. Book graduation photos
Capture your time at Ontario Tech with professional graduation photos. The graduation photo service is organized by the Ontario Tech Student Union (OTSU). Visit the OTSU grad photos website for up-to-date information, FAQs and to book your session.
3. Check the Convocation schedule
Ceremonies are faculty-specific. Check the schedule to confirm the day and time of your ceremony and save the date.
4. Register to attend your ceremony
Students who have applied to graduate will receive an email from MarchingOrder on behalf of the university to register for Convocation. You will be prompted to register to attend, provide the phonetic pronunciation of your name and reserve your guest tickets. Returning users may login in at ontariotechu.marchingorder.com
5. Rent a gown
Graduates are required to order a gown through Gaspard to participate in the ceremony. Visit the Gaspard regalia rental website. An advance rental fee of $37 or an on-site rental fee of $50 will apply.
Dress code: While there is no official dress code, comfortable, professional attire under the gown is recommended. Graduates might be standing for some time while waiting for the procession; we suggest you wear comfortable shoes.
6. Bring your mask
Masks are required while inside all university buildings.
Attendees are strongly encouraged to wear their masks during outdoor Convocation-related activities because physical distancing during the day’s events cannot be guaranteed.
For more details, see Do I need to wear a mask?
7. Arrive 90 minutes prior to the start of your Convocation ceremony
Arrive at the Science Building, West Atrium. Graduates are required to arrive early to check-in, pick up regalia and line up for the procession. Graduates must have their student ID or government-issued ID to present at check-in to receive a participation card and receive the degree parchment.
8. Ceremony duration
The duration of each convocation ceremony is approximately two hours. Out of respect for all ceremony attendees, graduates and their guests are expected to remain for the entire ceremony.
9. Attend the reception
Ontario Tech Alumni Association looks forward to celebrating you, alongside members of your faculty at the reception. Receptions will begin immediately following the ceremony at Shawenjigewining Hall. Snap some pictures and introduce your guests to classmates and professors.
10. Return your rented gown
Return your gown to the Science Building within one hour of the end of your ceremony. Gaspard will charge students for goods not returned or goods returned damaged.