We’re officially counting down to our #Classof2025 December graduations — and we can’t wait to celebrate with you!
There’s a lot to keep track of as the approaches, so we’ve pulled together everything you need to know in advance, plus where you need to be on the day itself.
Before your graduation day
- Keep chekcing your University inbox. If you haven’t already, you’ll soon receive your graduation itinerary email. This includes all the essential timings for your ceremony.
- Check the dress code. Your cap and gown are the iconic symbols of your graduation experience. Make sure you’re familiar with our academic dress guide and general dress code before the day.
- Have your gown confirmation number ready. Your order number is essential — you’ll need it on arrival at gowning.
- Plan your travel. Parking on campus is extremely limited. Nearby parking is available on Mount Pleasant, with more options listed here.
- Know the formalities. Graduation is the official ceremony that admits you to your degree. Here’s a reminder of the key documents you’ll receive.
On graduation day
Before your ceremony
- Gowning in the Sports Centre, ground floor – arrive for gowning as per the schedule in your itinerary email.
- Collect tickets, certificate and goodies – In the Sports Centre, you’ll pick up your ticket, your guests’ tickets, your graduation certificate and brochure, a UoL pin badge, and a tote bag. (Your guests can wait for you and relax in one of our many eateries or social spaces on campus.)
- Official photography – your graduation portrait photography is also located in Mountford Hall. If the queue is long—especially before your ceremony—you can return after your ceremony, just check closing times at the Sales Desk.
- Give yourself enough time to walk to the Philharmonic – the walk from campus to the Philharmonic Hall is around 15 minutes. You must be seated 45 minutes before your ceremony begins, so follow your itinerary timings closely.
- Hand over your guest tickets – before going into the Philharmonic, make sure you’ve given your guests their tickets so they can get into the venue—don’t accidentally give them yours!
- Live stream option. Guests without ceremony tickets can watch the live stream in the Stanley Theatre within the Guild, where food and refreshments are available.
- A quieter live-stream room is also available on the first floor of the Library within the Guild. (Alcohol is not permitted here; refreshments aren’t sold, but guests may bring tea, coffee or soft drinks.)
During your ceremony
- Be seated 45 minutes beforehand. Doors open one hour before the ceremony, but you must be seated 45 minutes prior to the start.
- Go directly to your allocated seat. Your ticket shows your assigned seat and staff will help if needed. Please sit in the correct seat to ensure you are presented properly for your degree.
- Your moment on stage! Staff will guide you when it’s your turn. You’ll give your name to the officer before being called to cross the stage and have your degree conferred.
- Remain in your seat for the full ceremony. You’ll be guided back to your seat after you received your degree. Ceremonies last around 90 minutes, and all graduates must remain for the duration.
After your ceremony
- Celebrate! Once the ceremony closes, it’s time to enjoy the moment.
- Check the information you’ve had from your school about their celebrations in the Crypt. Otherwise, feel free to visit the Courtyard, The Sphinx, The Augustus John, or any of our campus cafés.
- Capture your photos. With the VG&M scaffolding now removed, the iconic redbrick backdrop is back for #Classof2025, as well as plenty of spots on campus to take some memorable shots, including Abercromby Square.
- Return your gown. When you’ve finished taking photos, return your gown to The Street inside the Guild. Your gown needs to be returned by 6.30pm.
Beyond graduation
- Stay in touch! Update your contact details (this part’s important!) using your Student ID, so you can stay in the loop and enjoy access to events, benefits, and alumni perks.
- Careers support continues. We’re still here for you after graduation. Our Careers and Employability team can support your next steps — just complete this short form.
- Join our alumni social media community. Follow us on Instagram for a glimpse into alumni events, stories, and opportunities to stay involved and join our exclusive LinkedIn alumni group to expand your professional connections.
More details about Graduation 2025 can be found on our graduation webpages.