You are eligible to take part in the Conferment Ceremony as a promovendus if you have graduated from the University of Helsinki from the Faculty of Arts, Science, Biological and Environmental Sciences, Behavioural Sciences, or Pharmacy (but see below) with a Master’s degree (M.A. or M.Sc.), or completed an equivalent Bachelor’s degree from any of said Faculties before the 1994 Government Decree on University Degrees, or if you have completed a Doctorate of Philosophy in any of the aforementioned faculties. As an exception, Masters of Science in Pharmacy cannot participate; also, to reiterate, M.A., M.Sc. or Ph.D. graduates from other faculties at the University of Helsinki, may not participate as promovendi.
Promovendi often attend together with their spouse or other companion. A master’s companion is called a wreath-weaver, as it is customary for them to craft the laurel wreaths for the master promovendi on the day before main Conferment Act. A doctor’s companion is called a sword-whetter, but despite the name they do not have to take part in the sharpening of the swords. The companions act as dates/”avecs” for the promovendi at the dinners and also take part in all other celebrations. It is also possible to participate in the conferment ceremony without a companion. The official wreath-weaver and his/her assistants will craft the laurel wreaths for master promovendi attending alone.
In terms of registering for the different events, there are two possibilities: one can either participate in the entire three-day conferment ceremony, or just in the Conferment Act and it’s rehearsal.