The University of Otago's Degrees and Other Awards Statute 2011 stipulates that you must graduate within 12 months of completing your qualification. For example, if you complete your qualification at the end of semester 2 (i.e. in November), you will graduate in December of the same year, or in May or August of the following year. This timeframe helps ensure your achievement is formally recognised as soon as possible, whether you graduate in person or in absentia.
In some circumstances, it may be possible to defer your graduation beyond this period. Requests for deferral are considered carefully and approved in limited situations, in line with University regulations.
If you have not applied to graduate within 12 months of completing your qualification, and a deferral has not been approved, your qualification will be awarded in absentia. This ensures your award is formally conferred without delay. Your certificate will be held by Student Administration until you arrange for it to be sent to you. Contact AskOtago for assistance with this process.
Applying for a graduation deferral
Permission to defer graduation beyond 12 months from the completion of your qualification may be granted in the following situations:
- To allow you to complete a second qualification so both awards can be conferred at the same graduation ceremony, or
- Where exceptional personal circumstances outside your control mean you are unable to graduate in person within 12 months of completing your qualification
These circumstances must go beyond inconvenience, and work commitments are not normally accepted.
If you have already applied to graduate, a deferral request must be submitted before the deadline for withdrawing from the ceremony.
To request a graduation deferral, apply in writing by emailing the Group Leader, Student Administration:
graduation@otago.ac.nzFurther information