What will happen at my graduation ceremony and how long is it? Updated 15/10/2018 09.49 AM Your graduation ceremony will begin with the official welcome speech, followed by the presentation of awards to graduating students. It will conclude with a student address, an occasional address and congratulatory speech. After the ceremony you will have the opportunity to have professional photographs taken with your guests. Your ceremony will be approximately 1.5 hours depending on the number of graduating students. Remember, you must arrive two hours prior to your ceremony to check-in and collect your academic dress before the rehearsal. Light refreshments will be available for purchase. See attending your ceremony for more details.