Graduation
Discover everything you need for your Kingston University graduation.
Why Kingston University is great for your graduation
We make your big day special by offering a smooth, enjoyable experience from start to finish.
Graduation is a time to celebrate your hard work, achievements and the friendships you've made during your time at Kingston University. From the grandeur of the graduation ceremony to practical guidance on securing your gown and capturing professional photographs, everything is planned to honour your accomplishments.
Kingston University's graduation ceremonies are designed to be memorable, with family, friends and fellow graduates joining the celebration.
Whether you're graduating this year or planning ahead, our guide has everything you need to ensure a stress-free and enjoyable event. Explore essential details about booking your gown, choosing graduation merchandise and planning your special day.
Graduation event details
Your Kingston University graduation is the perfect way to celebrate your achievements with family, friends and peers. The ceremony takes place at a prestigious venue, with a formal programme including speeches, award presentations and the ceremonial walk across the stage to receive your certificate. You’ll be provided with all the details ahead of time, including the venue location, timings, and guest ticket information.
Plan your journey in advance, and don’t forget to consider transport options, parking availability and accessibility needs if required. With live streaming available, family and friends who cannot attend in person can still share the moment.
How to prepare for your graduation day
Preparation is key to ensuring your graduation day runs smoothly. Here are some steps to help you feel ready:
- Check your eligibility: Ensure all academic requirements are met and that your fees are up to date.
- Book your place: Register for the ceremony and confirm your attendance.
- Secure your gown and tickets: Hire your gown early and arrange guest tickets for loved ones.
- Plan your travel: Research the venue and consider your transport and parking needs.
- Dress the part: Follow guidelines for gown attire and dress smartly for the occasion.
- Arrive early: Arrive with plenty of time for gown collection, photos, and to find your seat.
- Celebrate: Enjoy the ceremony, take photos, and cherish this special milestone.
Academic gowns
Wearing your academic gown is a time-honoured tradition and a highlight of the graduation experience. Kingston University works with an official gowning partner to ensure you look and feel your best on the day.
Each gown’s design reflects your level of achievement, with colour-coded hoods to signify your field of study. It’s important to order your gown ahead of time and ensure it’s the correct fit. Our gown guide provides details on how to measure yourself, the rental or purchase process, and collection on the day.
We recommend wearing comfortable yet smart attire beneath your gown. For shoes, pick something practical to walk confidently across the stage.
Our graduation ceremonies guide provides more information on how to hire an academic gown.
Graduation photography services
Capture this milestone moment with our professional photography services. On the day, photographers will be available for both studio portraits and candid on-stage shots.
Booking your photography session in advance ensures you won’t miss out. Packages range from individual portraits to group photos with family and friends. All are tailored to create lasting memories of your special day.
Once captured, your photos can be ordered as prints, digital downloads or keepsake packages such as framed portraits or photobooks.
Don’t forget to bring your best smile and, if applicable, coordinate your outfit with loved ones for cohesive family photos.
You can find out more about photography in our graduation ceremonies guide.
Want more information about your graduation?
We've got a section dedicated to the upcoming graduation ceremonies, where you can find out even more about your big day.
Graduation merchandise and keepsakes
Celebrate your time at Kingston University with official graduation merchandise.
Our range of keepsakes includes:
- Personalised clothing, such as hoodies with your graduation year and course.
- Accessories like mugs, keyrings and tote bags to keep your Kingston memories close.
- Gifts for family and friends to thank them for their support, including framed certificates and Kingston University-themed memorabilia.
Merchandise is available online and on-site during the graduation event. Be sure to check the availability of limited-edition items, as these often sell out quickly.
You can pre-order personalised ‘Class of 2025' hoodies and t-shirts, so you can wear your graduating year and faculty with pride, wherever you go.
If you order in advance, you can collect your hoodie and/or t-shirt from the merchandise stall on the day of your graduation ceremony. Merchandise can also be delivered to your home address.
The deadline for upcoming graduations is TBC.
We do not currently offer this item to graduates. There are companies who offer graduation yearbooks. However, none of these are appointed by the University, so there is no guarantee of quality or that the yearbook will be provided. We strongly recommend you do not pay for any yearbook service. If you do, it is at your own risk.
Get in touch to discuss graduation essentials
If you have any questions about your graduation, our friendly team is here to help.
