The interior of the Sheldonian Theatre, scene of Oxford graduation ceremonies

Alumni: Degree Ceremony/Graduation Information

We congratulate all Mertonians eligible to graduate, whether you have completed your undergraduate degree, postgraduate Masters or doctorate, or are returning to have the Oxford MA conferred.


The degree ceremony is followed by a reception at Merton College; both events need to be booked. Please contact the degree referrals team to discuss booking your degree day.


Full information on all aspects of the degree ceremony and subsequent reception can be found below and on the Degree Conferrals website.


Contact us

How to book a ceremony and degree ceremony dates

University of Oxford degrees are conferred at a ceremony held at the Sheldonian Theatre.


Degrees are not automatically conferred at the end of your course and you will need to book onto a ceremony in order to receive your degree certificate; degrees can be conferred in person or in absentia.


Degree ceremony bookings close 60 days prior to each ceremony date. Once booked onto a ceremony, graduands will be unable to change to another ceremony date during the 60-day period before the degree day. If you decide to withdraw from the ceremony during this time, your degree will be conferred at the ceremony in absentia and you will not be able to attend a future date (unless withdrawing due to exceptional circumstances).


Some ceremonies are booked up many months in advance so please submit a booking request form as soon as possible.

How to Book

Degree Ceremony and Reception dates

Forthcoming degree ceremonies for the 2025/26 cycle are:

  • Saturday 16 May 2026 – 4:15pm
  • Saturday 23 May 2026 – 10:30am

Forthcoming degree ceremonies for the 2026/27 cycle are:

  • Saturday 18 July 2026 - 1.30pm
  • Friday 31 July 2026 - 1.30pm
  • Saturday 8 August 2026 - 1.30pm
  • Saturday 7 November 2026 - 10.30am
  • Friday 13 November 2026 - 1.30pm
  • Saturday 15 May 2027 - 10.30am
  • Saturday 22 May 2027 - 10.30am

Video: A students’ guide to degree ceremonies at Oxford

Reception Information

Further information (gowning, dress code, degree certificates, mobility enquiries etc.)

FAQs