General FAQs

/

• How can I register for a graduation ceremony?

  All graduates of the University of Vienna can register for graduation ceremonies via the webshop-based registration system: abschlussfeier-anmeldung.univie.ac.at
• When are graduation ceremonies scheduled?

  Graduation ceremonies are scheduled at intervals during the academic semester; they take place on weekdays (Monday to Friday) at 10:00, 12:00, 14:00 and 16:00.
• Can I choose the date and time of the ceremony?

  When registering via the webshop-based registration system, you can choose from a range of available dates. Dates and times are scheduled and announced as needed.
                
  Where can I look up upcoming graduation ceremony dates?
  As soon as you have collected your graduation documents from the StudiesServiceCenter, you can register for a graduation ceremony on abschlussfeier-anmeldung.univie.ac.at.

  Can I participate in a graduation ceremony with a foreign degree that has been recognised in Austria?
  Yes, you can. You have to submit a copy of your official notice. Please note that you cannot register via the registration system. The Promotionskanzlei (office in charge of graduation ceremonies) has to make the registration for you.
• Where can I look up upcoming graduation ceremony dates?

  As soon as you have collected your graduation documents from the StudiesServiceCenter, you can register for a graduation ceremony on abschlussfeier-anmeldung.univie.ac.at.
• How many dates are scheduled each semester?

  The number of ceremonies per semester depends on the faculty you are graduating from and is roughly proportional to the number of graduates. The Faculty of Social Sciences, for example, offers more ceremony dates than the Faculty of Catholic Theology.

  Please note that the number of dates scheduled depends on the number of attending graduates and varies from semester to semester. Ceremonies are scheduled and take place as needed.

   

   
• Are there also weekend or evening graduation ceremonies?

  No, graduation ceremonies are scheduled only on weekdays (Monday to Friday) at 10:00, 12:00, 14:00 and 16:00. For organisational reasons, evening or weekend dates cannot be offered.
• Are there graduation ceremonies during university vacations?

  No, not as a rule. To enable all graduates to participate in a graduation ceremony, additional dates are often scheduled in early February and early July. But for organisational reasons, graduation ceremonies cannot be offered during university vacations.
• How much time should I allow between the completion of my degree programme and the graduation ceremony?

  This may vary depending on your degree programme and faculty. You should expect at least four weeks to pass between the actual graduation (examination, submission of certificates) and the ceremony. The actual period tends to be about six weeks because you can only register for a ceremony date after you have collected your official notice of degree award (Verleihungsbescheid) (usually about two weeks after the final examination), and the Promotionskanzlei (office in charge of graduation ceremonies) requires you to register for the ceremony three weeks in advance.
• How long after the completion of my degree programme can I still participate in a graduation ceremony?

  We know that many graduates leave as soon as they have completed their programme to work or take up postgraduate studies abroad. Participation in a graduation ceremony is possible up to twelve months after graduation, or even later under exceptional circumstances. We kindly request that you contact us to discuss your specific query.

  You can also opt to receive your graduation certificate without participating in a ceremony.
• What happens if I am unable to attend the ceremony on the day for which I have registered?

  If you should be unable to come, please contact the Promotionskanzlei as soon as possible and cancel your registration. You need to cancel no later than two weeks before your registered date; otherwise your certificate will already have gone to print.

  While pre-registered (“vorgemerkt”) on UNIVIS for a graduation ceremony, you are free to change the selected date (at the latest three weeks before the ceremony). If you have already paid the fee, please contact the Promotionskanzlei (abschlussfeier@univie.ac.at).

/

• What happens during the graduation ceremony?

  After the academic officials (Rector/Vice-Rector, Dean/Vice-Dean, professor conferring the degree) have entered the ceremonial chamber, the graduates are asked to step up onto the podium one by one and introduce themselves, stating their name, the degree programme they have completed, and the title of their thesis. (At graduation ceremonies for holders of bachelor’s degrees, there is no individual introduction of graduates.) The Rector or Dean then gives a speech, after which he/she asks the professor conferring the degree to conduct this solemn ceremony.

  The professor reads out the oath formulas, in ascending order of degree, for holders of bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees. The sceptre bearer then steps in front of the podium. The graduates take the oath individually, coming forward one by one. Each graduate walks up to the sceptre bearer, lays two fingers on the sceptre and takes the oath by saying "spondeo" or "ich gelobe" (I promise).

  The professor then reads the formula conferring the degree, and finally, the graduates receive their certificates with a handshake and congratulations from the professor and the Dean or Rector.

  One of the graduates then gives thanks on behalf of the group, using either the Latin formula "pro collato honore et dignitate gradus gratias innumeras agimus" (doctoral degree) or the German formula which translated is: "On behalf of all candidates, I thank the University for the degree bestowed upon us, and I promise that we shall take our oath seriously and prove worthy of our academic degree" (master’s degree).

  After closing remarks by the Rector or Dean, the academic officials proceed to leave the chamber, accompanied by music. This ends the graduation ceremony.
• How long is a graduation ceremony?

  The ceremony takes from 40 to 60 minutes, depending on the number of graduates participating.
• Where do graduation ceremonies take place?

  The ceremonies take place in the Grosser Festsaal (Main Ceremonial Hall) on the first floor of the Main Building of the University of Vienna (Universitätsring 1, 1010 Vienna).
  Access to the Grosser Festsaal is via the main entrance and the LEFT wing of the Aula; barrier-free access is via the entrance on the right side of the building (Auditorium maximum corridor), where there is a lift.
• Which academic officials take part in the ceremony?

  The Rector or Vice-Rector, the Dean and the professor conferring the degree are present at doctoral graduation ceremonies. Master's degrees are conferred in the presence of the Dean and the professor conferring the degree, and bachelor's degrees are conferred either by a professor or the director of studies.
• How many graduates are typically present at a graduation ceremony?

  The number of graduates varies from faculty to faculty. As a rule, 20 to 25 graduates will be present at a graduation ceremony, with the exception of the Faculties of Catholic Theology and of Protestant Theology.
• Will the candidates for the graduation ceremony all be from my degree programme?

  Generally, graduates at a ceremony will be from one faculty, but not necessarily from the same degree programme. The only exceptions are Law, Nutritional Sciences, Pharmacy and Psychology – here, all graduates in a ceremony will in fact have completed the same degree programme.
• Are graduation ceremonies the same for all faculties?

  The basic procedure is the same for all faculties, but the speeches may of course vary in content and length. As a result of this and because of the varying numbers of graduates, the length of the ceremony may also vary. At doctoral graduation ceremonies and at those for pharmacists, the oath, conferment formula and expression of thanks are read out in Latin. Graduates of bachelor’s programmes do not introduce themselves individually from the podium.
• What do I have to do during the ceremony?

  At the start of the ceremony, you will be asked to step up onto the podium and introduce yourself, giving your name, degree programme and the title of your thesis.

  In the case of law graduates, there is no degree programme to state, and instead of the title of a thesis, the candidates name the major subject in which they have written their academic papers. They are free to cite the titles or just name the subjects.
  Graduates of bachelor’s programmes who have written two final papers may cite either just one title (as one of the papers tends to be more extensive) or both titles.

  Graduates who have written their thesis or final paper in a foreign language are kindly requested to give the German translation of the title as well.

  After the oath formula has been read out by the professor, the graduates rise one by one (in the sequence in which they are seated) and walk up to the sceptre bearer. Each candidate places two fingers on the sceptre head and takes the graduation oath by saying "ich gelobe" (I promise) or "spondeo".

  For the presentation of the certificates, the graduates also walk singly to the centre of the room. The document is handed over by the professor conferring the degree, and the Rector or Vice-Rector and Dean shake each graduate's hand in congratulation. The graduates then return to their seats.

  At the preparatory meeting before the start of the ceremony you will receive detailed instructions concerning the proceedings.
• Is it true that I have to swear an oath at the graduation ceremony?

  Yes, in keeping with historical tradition, candidates take a graduation oath, placing two fingers on the head of the university sceptre. Holders of doctoral degrees take the oath by saying "spondeo", holders of master’s and bachelor’s degrees by saying "ich gelobe" (I promise) in affirmation of the oath formula. Different faculties use different oath formulas. Here is one example:

  Honoured candidates!

  By having pursued your studies, writing a final thesis and taking the prescribed examinations, you have fulfilled the legal requirements to earn a master's degree in your field of study.
  We have therefore invited you to this solemn assembly to confer this degree upon you. Before this, you shall take this oath:

  I promise to maintain permanent ties to the University which confers the academic degree upon me, and to support it to the best of my ability in fulfilling its mission.
  I promise in particular that I will carefully observe the progress of scholarship in the area in which the academic degree entitles me to work, and to acquire such knowledge as is relevant for the practice of my profession.
  I promise further that I will form my opinion on scholarly questions to the best of my knowledge and belief, and that I will not let my judgment be clouded by ambition, personal advantage, or other unscholarly motives.
  Finally, I promise that I will refrain from any action which may damage the repute of the academic degree conferred upon me.

  This you shall pledge!

/

• What is the size of the certificate?

  The size of the certificate is 65 x 47 cm.

  More information can be found at the site "certificates".
• Can I receive my certificate without a ceremony?

  Yes, you can just get the certificate – there is no obligation to participate in a graduation ceremony. After you have registered and paid the fee via the registration system, your certificate will be printed together with the certificates for the next graduation ceremony. We will inform you by e-mail as soon as your certificate is ready to collect. If you are planning to leave Vienna upon graduation, you can request that the certificate is sent to you by mail. Postage will be at your expense. Please contact us if your certificate should be sent abroad.
• When can I pick up my certificate?

  If you are unable to come to the ceremony on the appointed day and do not want to participate in a later ceremony, or if you want to receive the certificate without attending a ceremony, you can pick it up from the day after the ceremony. You cannot receive it earlier, because the Rector/Vice-Rector, Dean/Vice-Dean and the professor conferring the degree sign the certificates immediately before the ceremony.
• Are the certificates signed, and who signs them?

  Yes, the certificates bear the original signatures of the Rector/Vice-Rector, Dean/Vice-Dean and the professor conferring the degree. The certificates are signed in the Promotionskanzlei immediately before the graduation ceremony.
• There is a mistake on my certificate – what can I do?

  Please contact the Promotionskanzlei to arrange for correction and a fresh printout. Please note that re-issuing the certificate will take some time as the new printout will again be signed by hand.

/

• How much is charged for participation in a graduation ceremony? What is included?

  The graduation ceremony fee depends on the certificate you choose. The fee starts at EUR 85 and covers the following:

  • Graduation ceremony, held in the Main Ceremonial Chamber of the University of Vienna in the presence of academic officials
  • Certificate
  • Musical accompaniment
• How do I pay the fee for the graduation ceremony?

  After you have selected your desired date, you can find the graduation ceremony in your cart. To complete your registration, you have to pay the outstanding fee via MasterCard, direct banking or Visa. To do so, click “ zu Kasse gehen" (proceed to checkout).

  Your registration for a date will be confirmed as soon as you have paid the fee.

  As soon as you have completed the payment, you will receive an e-mail confirming that you have successfully registered for the graduation ceremony. You can view your booking under “gebuchte Veranstaltungen" (Booked events) and/or under “Konto - Meine Veranstaltungen” (account - my events; status: “angemeldet"/registered). Moreover, under “Bestellung ansehen" (View my order), you can view all details and print the order confirmation.

  If you cannot complete the payment, please contact us at abschlussfeier@univie.ac.at.
• Can I receive my certificate without a ceremony?

  Yes, you can just get the certificate – there is no obligation to participate in a graduation ceremony. After you have registered and paid the fee via the registration system, your certificate will be printed together with the certificates for the next graduation ceremony. We will inform you by e-mail as soon as your certificate is ready to collect. If you are planning to leave Vienna upon graduation, you can request that the certificate is sent to you by mail. Postage will be at your expense. Please contact us if your certificate should be sent abroad.
• When should I be at the University on the day of the ceremony?

  Please come to the preparatory meeting 30 minutes before the scheduled starting time of your ceremony. The meeting point for graduates is in the cloakroom next to the Grosser Festsaal (Main Ceremonial Hall).
  Access to the cloakroom is through the Grosser Festsaal – just follow the signs. At the preparatory meeting you will receive all the information you need to participate in the ceremony.
• Where is the meeting point for the preparatory meeting?

  The meeting point for graduates is in the cloakroom next to the Grosser Festsaal (Main Ceremonial Hall). Walk up to the Grosser Festsaal on the first floor and follow the signs.

/

• How many guests may come to the ceremony?

  The number of your guests is currently limited.
  2 weeks before the academic ceremony, all registered students will get an email with all relevant information.
• How long before the ceremony will the Main Ceremonial Hall be opened?

  The Grosser Festsaal (Main Ceremonial Hall) is opened one hour before the start of the ceremony; in the winter months, the cloakroom attendant will also be present then. If ceremonies are held in sequence, you can enter the Grosser Festsaal as soon as the earlier ceremony has ended. Please note, however, that cleaning staff may go round to prepare the room for the next ceremony. (If you are reserving seats, make sure that your signs are not mistaken for signs from the earlier ceremony and removed).
• Is there barrier-free access to the Main Ceremonial Hall?

  Yes, the Grosser Festsaal (Main Ceremonial Hall) can be reached by lift. The easiest route is to enter the building through the right-hand entrance. The lift is located in front of Hof (court) IV on the left side of the corridor leading to the Auditorium maximum (opposite the Lehrmittelstelle shop). Take the lift to the first floor. The lift exit is right in front of the ceremonial halls.
• How can I make a reservation for a reception?

  The Mensen Betriebsgesellschaft offers reception arrangements in the Arcaded Courtyard or the Kleiner Festsaal (Small Ceremonial Hall), depending on the season of the year.

  For more details, contact: andrea.eisbach@mensen.at

  You are kindly requested to make your booking at least three days prior to the graduation ceremony. 
• How much does a reception cost?

  You can find all the informations about the reception here!
• Can I bring my own drinks to the University premises?

  Please refrain from bringing food or drinks to the University. We recommend using the services of the Mensen Betriebsgesellschaft, which will be happy to offer you a reasonably priced reception package.
• Participation of corps students in graduation ceremonies

  According to an internal instruction issued by Rector Ebenbauer (term in office: 1990/91 to 1997/98), corps students may attend graduation ceremonies as members of the audience. They may line up in the visitors' space if they so wish, and are free to be present at the ceremony. However, they must observe the ban on weapons of any kind on the premises of the University of Vienna.