Due to the emerging situation regarding COVID-19, Lincoln University has made the difficult decision to postpone the 2020 graduation ceremony on 24 April.
Qualifications will be conferred and mailed to graduands, and the university hopes to hold a celebratory ceremony on 8 October.
While this is incredibly disappointing for the entire Lincoln whānau, the decision reflects the Government’s directive to cancel events that are likely to attract more than 500 people.
Our top priority is the safety and security of graduands and their families, as well as all staff and students of the university. The health and wellbeing of our wider community is also extremely important to us.
The event in October will reflect the pageantry that marks a graduation ceremony, with graduands donning their robes and parading to the Christchurch Town Hall.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will graduands still receive their qualifications?
All qualifications will be conferred as planned on 24 April 2020.
Hard copy parchments will be mailed to graduands, with digitally certified transcripts and parchments issued in My eQuals.
The university hopes to hold a graduation celebration in October, which would reflect the pageantry that marks a graduation ceremony.
Are associated events also cancelled?
Yes, all associated events are cancelled, including the Sport and Future Leaders Celebration, the PhD Dinner, the Graduation Ball and the Rā Whakamana & Pasifika Celebration.
The university hopes to reschedule these for October, along with the celebratory graduation event.
Do you have to walk across a stage to graduate?
No, that is part of a graduation ceremony but not essential. Every year, some students apply to graduate “in absentia”, which means they are awarded their qualification without attending the ceremony.
Is there a refund for regalia?
Yes. If payment has been made by credit card, the card will be reimbursed. If you have paid via online banking or at the cashier, you will be contacted and asked for bank details so that you can be reimbursed.
What are the implications for international students regarding travel and visas?
Letters will be issued or reissued for international visas, including the new ceremony date if applicable, at no cost to students.
I have further questions. Who should I contact?
Email [email protected]. If you are a student, please include your student number in the subject line.