Graduation
Discover everything you need for your ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ graduation.
Why ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ is great for your graduation
We want to make your big day unforgettable by ensuring you have a smooth, enjoyable experience from start to finish.
Graduation is your time to shine and celebrate all your hard work and the friendships you've made at ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ. From the exciting ceremony to helpful tips on getting your gown and having professional photos taken, we've got everything covered for you.
ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ's graduation ceremonies are a joyous occasion, with family, friends, and fellow graduates joining the fun. Discover how to book your place, hire your gown, choose some great graduation merchandise, and plan your special day.
Graduation event details
Your ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ graduation is the perfect way to celebrate your achievements with family, friends and peers. The ceremony takes place at the Rose Theatre in Kingston town centre and you’ll be provided with all the details ahead of time, including the address, 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 and get guest tickets: Register for the ceremony via OSIS, confirm your attendance and purchase guest tickets.
- Secure your gown: Hire your gown nice and early.
- Plan your travel: Research the venue and consider your journey well in advance.
- 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. ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ works with our official gowning partner, the Graduate Gown Co, to ensure you look and feel your best on the day.
Kingston’s gowns are black and grey with bands of blue in different areas of the garment to reflect the level of award achieved. When you book with the Graduate Gown Co, you can find their measuring guide for the gown and hat to help you choose the size that will fit you best.
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 photographers, H Tempest. On the day, photographers will be available for both studio portraits and on-stage shots.
You don’t need to book in advance, you can visit the studios straight after collecting your gown and choose from a range of packages, 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 ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ with official graduation merchandise from Kingston Students' Union.
Their range of keepsakes includes:
- ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ branded clothing, such as hoodies and t-shirts.
- Accessories like mugs, keyrings and tote bags to keep your Kingston memories close.
- The Grad Bear - everyone's favourite souvenir!
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.
