Information for guests

Encampment updates

An encampment to express solidarity with Palestine was set up at the University of Victoria on May 1. We expect Convocation ceremonies to proceed as planned. Learn more

UVic convocation ceremonies take place in the Jamie Cassels Centre Farquhar Auditorium. The auditorium opens for seating 45 minutes before each ceremony.

Accessible seating is available upon request. Graduating students can note special seating requirements for their guests when registering online for convocation.

Tickets

Graduating students reserve guest tickets when they register to attend the ceremony.

Due to fire-code regulations, every guest must have a ticket (including newborn babies and toddlers).
Tickets are sent electronically to the graduating student in advance of the ceremony.

Extra guest tickets

Extra guest tickets are released one hour before the start of a ceremony on a first-come, first-served basis at the UVic Ticket Centre in the lobby of the Jamie Cassels Centre.

To ensure fair distribution, one ticket will be provided per person in line.
- e.g. If four people require extra tickets, they must all wait in the line.
Guests who aren't able to get extra tickets can watch the livestream in the lobby of the Jamie Cassels Centre.

Invitation letter for international guests

If you're travelling to Canada to attend a convocation ceremony as a guest and need a visa, make sure your graduating student requests an invitation letter for you ahead of time.

Parking

Parking is complimentary for graduating students and their guests.

You can use any of the general parking lots on the outside of Ring Road, including the CARSA Parkade.
- When you enter the campus, look for the signs directing you to available parking lots.
Parking passes are emailed to graduating students in advance of the ceremonies.
All of our parking lots are very busy during convocation, so please ensure you leave ample time to find a parking space.

Note: Complimentary parking does not include metered spots, "reserved" spots or the Jamie Cassels Centre parkade.

Gifts for grads

Visit the UVic Bookstore for Grad 2024 merchandise and diploma frames (or order online).
Order flowers in advance, or buy them on the day of the ceremony. You an pick them up at the entrance to the Jamie Cassels Centre.

Health & safety

The health and safety of our university community and our visitors is a top priority. UVic follows the public health guidelines set out by the BC Provincial Health Officer (PHO) and WorkSafe BC.

We Share the Air! Please help make convocation a fragrance-free environment.

For the comfort and safety of all attendees, please do not use products with scents or fragrances (e.g. colognes, perfumes, cosmetics, anti-perspirants, lotions, etc.). These products impact the health of some individuals.

For more information, including steps to address concerns with scented products, please review the scent safety guidelines.