The University of Otago's Degrees and Other Awards Statute 2011 stipulates that you must attend a ceremony within 12 months of having your qualification conferred. For example, if your qualification is conferred in November, you will graduate in December of the same year, or in May or August of the following year.
In some circumstances, it may be possible to defer attending a ceremony 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 attend a ceremony within 12 months of having your qualification conferred, and a deferral has not been approved, you will not be able to attend a ceremony. Your certificate will be sent to you via courier at the time your qualification is conferred.
Applying for a graduation deferral
Permission to defer attending a ceremony beyond 12 months may be granted in the following situations:
- To allow you to complete a second qualification so both awards can be acknowledged at the same graduation ceremony, or
- Where exceptional personal circumstances outside your control mean you are unable to attend a ceremony within 12 months of havingyour qualification conferred
These circumstances must go beyond inconvenience, and work commitments are not normally accepted.
If you have already applied to attend a ceremony, a deferral request must be submitted before the deadline for withdrawing from the ceremony.
To request a deferral, apply in writing by emailing the Lead Administrator, Student Administration: