Countdown to Summer 2025 graduation: A student-to-student guide

We’re Michelle and Duy-Anh, final-year MSc Global Health & Social Medicine and BSc Business Management students.

With our graduations just around the corner, we’ve been feeling all kinds of emotions – mainly excitement and nerves. For one of us, it’s our first graduation, and the idea of saying goodbye to student life after so many years feels huge. For the other, having graduated before, it’s a chance to cherish that meaningful moment again with those who have supported us through every deadline and late-night study session.

We’ve done our homework on graduation and want to share our top tips to help you make the most of the day.

There are a few bits of admin to take care of before your graduation day. Make sure to check out the article Summer graduations 2025 - Everything you need to know to tick everything off your list.

The outfit dilemma can genuinely feel like an existential crisis or at least spark endless debates with family and friends!

Our advice? Wear something you feel both comfortable and confident in. This is one occasion where jeans and trainers are best left at home, as smart clothing is expected from students. For more on what to wear to your ceremony, and how to book your gown, check out the article What is the academic dress for ceremonies, and how can I book it?

Top tip: If you’re into colour coordination, check out the colour of your graduation hood in this article as it varies depending on your faculty.

UK summer weather is famously unpredictable so it’s smart to have an outfit plan B, like a jacket or a light extra layer, just in case.

Worried about hat hair? The good news is that the mortarboard (the square hat) isn’t part of King’s academic dress, but you can usually borrow one for traditional photos.

A quick note on shoes: If you’re considering heels, avoid high ones you haven’t broken in. Graduation involves a fair bit of walking, and you’ll want to focus on enjoying the moment, not your sore feet!

Ceremonies happen at different times of day, so lighting will vary, plus there’s always the great unknown of British weather.

We suggest you pick photo locations that hold special memories from your time at King’s, rather than being swayed by the crowds. That way you can get more meaningful photos. It’s also worth coordinating with your friends on taking group pictures as it’s easy to get separated in the crowd.

Our top picks for photos near Southwark Cathedral:

• Guy's courtyard: With The Shard proudly in the background, this shot gives you an iconic mix of old and new London.
• London Bridge: If you can brave the crowds, you’ll be rewarded with the perfect backdrop of the city.
• In front of New Hunt’s House: A picture here is the perfect souvenir to remember your time on Guy’s campus.
• If it’s raining: The Colonnades provide both shelter and the perfect spot for a portrait. 

Some classic photo spots for Royal Festival Hall:

• Waterloo Bridge: With the London Eye or Big Ben in the background, plus that stunning skyline, you can’t go wrong.
• South Bank: Once you've taken your obligatory photos outside of Royal Festival Hall, go to South Bank. The riverside walk has scenic trees and benches, which are perfect for relaxed shots.
• In front of Bush House: It’s an iconic King’s location and makes for a timeless photo backdrop.
• If it’s raining: The entrance of Somerset House offers a lovely view and is the perfect photo spot without needing to go inside.   

Planning to celebrate afterwards? King’s campuses are right in the heart of London, so you have plenty of options whether it’s heading to a nearby pub for drinks, enjoying a nice meal (maybe even a picnic in the park if the weather’s on your side), or doing some sightseeing.  

If you’re graduating from Southwark Cathedral: 

• Pubs nearby: Check out the London Bridge rooftop bar for cocktails with a view, or head to Guy’s bar for one last drink as a student. 
• Grab a bite: The legendary Borough Market is just around the corner from Southwark Cathedral and has endless choices – it's also a must-visit for Bridget Jones fans!

If you’re graduating from Royal Festival Hall:

• Pubs nearby: The Marquess of Anglesey and The Bow Street Tavern in Covent Garden both offer plenty of seating and a rooftop area with views overlooking Covent Garden. Or check out Between the Bridges for their happy hour deals.
• Restaurants: Greek cuisine at The Real Greek or Masala Zone for some hearty Indian food.   

Life happens. If something comes up and you can’t attend, don’t stress; you can defer to the next set of ceremonies once. Make sure to check Student Services Online for the exact process. If you can attend, we highly recommend going. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime moment to honour your hard work and everything you’ve achieved. We’re excited for everyone graduating this summer! 

Best of luck, everyone!