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Graduation 2020
Congratulations #USYDClassof2020!
Graduation is a significant milestone and though we can't come together in person this year, we are celebrating your achievements in new ways.
Congratulations on completing your studies, and welcome to our alumni community! Here are a few ways to make the most of your at-home graduation experience:
Questions?
Take a look at some of our frequently asked questions below, or contact the Student Centre if you have any further questions about your graduation.
The University continues to be guided by NSW Health advice on measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19, and ensure the health and safety of all our students, staff and the broader community. This includes the NSW Public Health Order which has placed restrictions on mass gatherings. Unfortunately this means we will not be able to hold any in-person graduation ceremonies or replacement ceremonies for graduates of Semester 2 2019 and Semester 1 2020. Students who complete their studies in Semester 2 2020 will be advised via email about plans for their graduation ceremonies closer to the time.
Be assured, if you’re eligible to graduate the status of your graduation is unaffected. You will automatically graduate in absentia, which means your degree will still be conferred on the same date as scheduled and you will officially become a graduate of the University of Sydney.
We share your disappointment in not being able to celebrate at a traditional graduation ceremony in the University’s Great Hall. On 3 September we held an online event proudly celebrating the 18,000 students who completed their studies in Semester 2 2019 and Semester 1 2020 with special messages of congratulations and inspiration from NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian, the Chancellor, Vice-Chancellor, Deans, alumni, and fellow students. If you missed the event, you can watch it below.
Don't worry if you missed the online event, you can watch the recording so you can celebrate in your own time or share it with your family and friends.
You might not be able to attend a graduation ceremony in the Great Hall right now, but if you’re able to visit the Camperdown campus, you can hire authentic University of Sydney graduation regalia and book professional photography. The service is available on select dates throughout September-December. Find out more.
Online celebration
Early September we live-streamed a special online event from the Great Hall to recognise and celebrate the achievements of our graduating class of 2020.
Hosted by alumnus and YouTube star Eddie Woo, the night included special messages from deans and alumni with University graduates, The Jezabels, putting on an amazing musical performance. The event also featured a video message from NSW Premier, Gladys Berejiklian.
You can relive the best moments by watching the recording below, or sharing it with your family and friends.
Messages from your fellow classmates
2020 Graduate Nicolette Preketes-Tardiani delivers a strong and inspiring message to the graduating class of 2020.
Event photo gallery
Class of 2020 t-shirt
Grab your commemorative graduation t-shirt featuring the University’s iconic Quadrangle. You can purchase them on campus at the USU Holme and JFR stores, or online.
Instagram filter
Create your perfect at-home graduation photos using our Instagram filter. Tap the smiley on our Instagram profile and immerse yourself in a virtual graduation experience. Be sure to tag @sydney_uni and #USYDclassof2020.
Zoom backgrounds
Show your USYD pride by using customised backgrounds on your Zoom meetings with friends, family and work colleagues.
Click the images below, then right click and save it to your device. Some browsers may automatically save the image to your download folder.
To set up a background image or video, follow Zoom’s instructions.
Life after graduation
Whether you are kicking on with postgraduate study or off to make your mark on the world, as a graduate you’ll forever be a part of the University community. Don't forget that there are a range of resources available to help you with your career goals and continue your passion for lifelong learning.
Don’t be a stranger – keep your details up to date so we can continue to stay in touch and let you know about the latest alumni news, events and benefits. You can also connect with us on Linkedin.
Facts & figures
- 380,000 alumni worldwide
- 350 USYD gown variations
- 1912 When the tradition of throwing graduation headgear started.
- 'Alumni' From the Latin word ‘alere’, then ‘alumnus’ which was Roman for foster child. Around the 17th century it took on the meaning we use today.
- Alumnus or alumna? A male graduate and a female graduate respectively.
- Graduand Someone who passed their exams but hasn't officially graduated yet.
- Mortarboard It looks like the board that bricklayers use to hold the mortar. Its real name is a trencher cap.
