Frequently asked questions

Do I have to register for convocation?

Yes. You will receive an email from noreply@MarchingOrder.com on or after January 17, 2024 with instructions on how to register.

How do I get a gown for the ceremony?

Graduates will register for their gown through Marching Order when they confirm their attendance.

Graduates will not be permitted to cross the stage without a gown. If you do not pre-order your gown, you will need to pay $5.00 at the ceremony to obtain a gown.

Where will the ceremony take place?

Bingemans Conference Centre is located at 425 Bingemans Centre Drive, Kitchener, ON, N2B 3X7.

When should I arrive?

Graduates should arrive 60 minutes before their designated ceremony time. It is very important to allow travel time to arrive within the registration period. If you do not register on time, you will not be able to sit with your classmates or join the ceremony until after all graduates have crossed the stage. 

What happens if I arrive late?

You will not be able to sit with your classmates or join the ceremony until all graduates have crossed the stage. Late grads will be seated in a separate room where they can watch the ceremony via TV.

What should I bring to convocation?

Your ONE Card or photo ID is mandatory to receive your registration card and document. Coats, bags, or other items can be left at coat check or with your guests. 

When do I receive my document?

Documents for graduates will be distributed immediately following the ceremony. Any documents not picked up will be mailed to you immediately following the convocation ceremony. Make sure your address is always kept up to date on the Student Portal.

I am a graduate with a disability or special needs and will attend my ceremony. Who should I contact to make special arrangements?

When you indicate your attendance on Marching Order, you will have an opportunity to specify that you require special accommodation. 

Our venues are wheelchair accessible. 

I have a guest attending with a disability or special needs. Who should I contact to make special arrangements?

When you indicate your attendance on Marching Order, you will have an opportunity to specify if your guest requires special accommodation. 

Our venues are wheelchair accessible. 

How many guests can I bring?

Seating is limited and on a first-come, first-served basis. We encourage you to limit your guests to two to avoid overcrowding. 

Do I require tickets for my guests?

No, tickets are not required for guests. Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis and each graduate is entitled to bring two guests.        

Can I bring my child to convocation?

Children are welcome at the ceremony but must always remain with guests who can care for them until the event is over. Graduates will be seated together in the front section of the hall and children will not be permitted to sit among them nor cross the stage. 

I am graduating from two programs. Which convocation should I attend?

If your programs are scheduled within the same ceremony, you will have to choose which program you would like to cross the stage with. If your programs are scheduled in two different ceremonies, you have the choice of attending both.

What if I cannot attend the ceremony?

Graduates are only permitted to attend their designated ceremony. Due to the planning, scheduling and software that is used during the ceremony, you cannot attend a different ceremony. Each ceremony is live streamed and recorded.        

Any documents not picked up will be mailed immediately following the convocation ceremony. Make sure your address is always kept up to date on the Student Portal       

Is there a live stream available for family who cannot attend the ceremony?

Yes, there is a live stream video available.

Where can I get the convocation program?

The program is a digital book in PDF format and will be available on the Convocation home page the first day of Convocation week.         

Can I attend my ceremony if I have outstanding fees?

Graduates who have outstanding fees can still participate in the ceremony, but will not receive their document until the fees are paid. You can check your financial record through the 'Financial' tab in the Student Portal.         

How long is the ceremony?

The ceremony will last approximately 1.5 to 2 hours and graduates are expected to remain for the duration of the ceremony.                

Guests are invited to the reception immediately following the ceremony; graduates will join guests at the reception.              

Are there any costs associated with the ceremony?

If you are in a full-time program, there are no additional costs. The convocation fee is part of the tuition fees you have already paid. However, if you do not pre-order your gown, you will be charged a late fee of $5.00 at the ceremony to obtain a gown.

If you are in a part-time Ontario College certificate or diploma program, you are required to pay the Application to Graduate fee.

Do I need to apply to graduate?

You do not need to apply to graduate if you are a full-time student finishing your final academic level.              

If you are in a part-time program, finishing your final course and wish to graduate, you must complete the Application to Graduate form (pdf) and submit it to the Registrar's Office prior to the graduate status deadline.                

If your status is Special Timetable, you must advise your Enrolment Officer when you are nearing completion of your final course.

Note: If you are currently taking an OntarioLearn course, please email ConvocationQuestions@conestogac.on.ca. Final grades for these courses must be received by the graduate status deadline in order for you to be eligible to graduate in the upcoming ceremony.                

If you have additional questions, please email ConvocationQuestions@conestogac.on.ca.                

How will my award be recognized?

Graduates who have achieved High Distinction and President's Honour List are denoted in the program. Graduates who have achieved Conestoga Honour List, Distinction, High Distinction and President's Honour List will have their award displayed on screen during the ceremony as they cross the stage.                

Visit Academic recognition for more information about our Honours Procedure and how your award is recognized.                

Who should I contact if I have other questions?

For more information, contact the Student Records Office at 519-748-5220, ext. 3656, or by email at ConvocationQuestions@conestogac.on.ca.