Guide to Attending Graduation Ceremonies in Hong Kong

27 May

Graduation ceremonies in Hong Kong are formal events celebrating academic achievements. Held at universities like HKU, CUHK, or HKUST, they involve academic regalia, speeches, and degree conferral. This guide covers preparation, expectations, and tips for a smooth experience.

Pre-Ceremony Preparation

Confirm Details: Check the invitation for date, time, and venue. Guests may need tickets.
Attire:
- Graduates: Wear rented or provided academic gowns, caps, and hoods.
- Guests: Opt for smart-casual or formal clothing (e.g., suits, dresses).
Travel: Plan your route to venues like HKU’s Grand Hall or the Hong Kong Convention Centre. Use MTR or taxis and arrive early.
Photography: Arrange for professional or personal photography, noting venue restrictions.

During the Ceremony

Arrival: Graduates check in 30–60 minutes early to collect regalia. Guests present tickets.
Structure:
- 1–2 hour event with speeches, degree conferral, and academic processions.
- Bilingual elements (English/Cantonese) and occasional traditional performances.
Etiquette: Silence phones, follow photography rules, and respect seating arrangements.

Post-Ceremony

Photos: Use designated campus areas for photos (e.g., HKU’s Main Building).
Celebrations: Book restaurants in advance for post-ceremony meals.
Regalia: Return rented gowns on time to avoid fees.

Tips

Weather: Prepare for heat, humidity, or rain with water or umbrellas.
Accessibility: Arrange accommodations for mobility needs in advance.
Gifts: Flowers or red packets are popular congratulatory gifts.
Updates: Monitor university websites for protocol changes.

Key Venues

HKU: Grand Hall, Centennial Campus.
CUHK: University Mall or Sir Run Run Shaw Hall.
HKUST: The Atrium.
Others: VTC, HKBU, or external venues like AsiaWorld-Expo.

Practical Notes

Timing: Typically November–December or June–July.
Language: Primarily English, with Cantonese/Mandarin elements.
Costs: Regalia (HKD 200–500), photography (HKD 500–2,000+), dining (HKD 100–500/person).

Enjoy celebrating this milestone in Hong Kong’s vibrant academic community!

For Graduation Bouquets: https://flowerbee-hk.com/collections/graduation