COVID-19 Convocation & Graduation FAQs

Updated September 9, 2021

Since there won't be an in-person convocation ceremony, am I still graduating?

Convocation refers to the ceremony at which your achievements are celebrated. 

Degrees/diplomas will be conferred in absentia on November 2, 2021 by Laurier Chancellor Eileen Mercier to ensure that graduates have credentials necessary for graduate programs or employment.

What will happen on November 2?

You will officially become a Laurier graduate! 

Be sure to check your mylaurier email address, we will be sharing a special conferral video.  This video includes a special moment for individual graduate recognition.  

And, we’ve prepared a special website to help you plan an at home celebration. Don’t forget to tag #ForeverGolden and the main institutional accounts on social media so we can celebrate with you.

How will I get my degree/diploma?

All degrees/diplomas will be distributed whether or not you plan on attending a future celebration.

A message was sent to mylaurier email addresses on October 5 for you to select if you prefer to book an appointment to collect your degree/diploma from either the Brantford or Waterloo campus (pending Government and Health Unit guidelines), or have your degree/diploma mailed to the address in LORIS.

If no form is submitted by the October 12 deadline, or the form was incomplete, your degree/diploma will be sent via courier to the address in LORIS as of October 12, 2021.

If you miss your scheduled appointment your degree/diploma will be shipped on the week of November 8, 2021.

When will I receive my degree/diploma?

Degrees/diplomas are not released until after November 2. Depending on the shipping address, delivery times will very. 

You will receive an email notification directly from Purolator when your package has shipped, status updates on delivery timeline and proof of delivery.

Packages will not require a signature and will be left on the doorstep unless deemed unsafe, or not accessible (ie. apartment with no access) by the delivery driver.  A delivery notice will be left with details of how to collect your package from the nearest depot.

Need proof of graduation sooner? See additional details under "What if I need proof of graduation sooner than I will receive my degree/diploma".

How can I make sure I will receive my degree/diploma quickly? 

1. Make sure you do not have any financial holds on your account 
2. Make sure your mailing address is current as of October 12, 2021 in LORIS

What if I need proof of graduation sooner than I will receive my degree/diploma?

When an outside agency or organization requires proof of graduation, students can request a letter that confirms degree requirements have been met prior to degree conferral.  More information can be found here. 

Will my minor included on my degree?

Minors and concentrations do not appear on the degree; they are, however, included in your transcript.

Is my name spelled incorrectly on my degree/diploma?

The typography used can be difficult for some to read. We have included the font example.

If after reviewing the font you’re confident there is a typo please email convocation@wlu.ca.

How will I get my Yearbook and Class Composite?

Yearbooks and Class Composites are managed by WLUSP. They will be distributed at the rescheduled ceremony or available by request via mail (fees apply).

Where can I purchase a degree frame or regalia for my own photos?

The Laurier Bookstore has a selection of frames and gifts to celebrate graduates.  Black gowns and degree hoods are also available for purchase.  Regalia for Laurier graduates does not include a cap and tassel.

I graduated during the pandemic, when will my ceremony be rescheduled and how will I know?

Wilfrid Laurier University is looking forward to hosting convocation ceremonies in-person when it is safe to do so based on the advice of government and health officials. Updates will be posted to the website and communicated directly to graduates via their mylaurier email account.

Graduates and guests are always encouraged to consult the Global Affairs Canada travel advisory website.