What’s on for University Students in the UK – May to July 2025

University life heats up: what’s happening across the UK this summer

As summer approaches, university life in the UK enters an exciting and dynamic phase. From campus open days and graduation ceremonies to academic conferences and end-of-year celebrations, the coming months are packed with opportunities for both prospective and current students.

Whether you’re preparing to start university, celebrating the end of your degree, or looking to connect with peers and professionals, there’s plenty happening across the country. Here’s a round-up of key university and academic events taking place from May to July 2025.

University open days in the UK

Open days offer prospective students the chance to explore campuses, meet staff and students, and get a feel for life at university. Here are just a few of the many open days coming up:

• University of Sussex – 7 June
• Queen Mary University of London – 13–14 June
• University of Liverpool – 20–21 June
• University of Oxford – 2–3 July
• University of Cambridge – 10–11 July
• King’s College London – 14 June & 12 July
• Kingston University – 5 July

For more open days, check the full list on the UCAS Events Calendar or OpenDays.com.

Graduation ceremonies 2025

University graduation ceremonies in the UK for the class of 2025 are generally scheduled in July, often spanning several days. Confirmed schedules include:

• University of Oxford: 16, 17, 31 May; 19, 29 July
• University of Glasgow: 1 July
• University of Birmingham: 8–17 July
• University of Bristol: 8–17 July
• University of Leeds: 14–30 July
• University of Exeter: 14–24 July
• University of Reading: 22–30 July

More detailed schedules include:

• University of Warwick: 14–25 July
• Coventry University: 21–25 July
• Leeds Beckett University: 14–18 July
• University of Sheffield: 21–25 July
• University of Wolverhampton: 25–31 July
• University of York: 19–25 July (no ceremonies on Sunday 20)
• University of Hull: 14 July
• University of Manchester: 7–22 July
• Heriot-Watt University: 17–18 June
• University of West London: 2–3 December (Winter Graduation)
• Manchester Metropolitan University: 14–25 July
• University of South Wales: 14–16 July
• UWE Bristol: Weeks commencing 21 and 28 July
• Queen Margaret University: July (exact dates TBC)
• Goldsmiths, University of London: 14–17 January 2025 (Winter Graduation)
• Balliol College, Oxford: 19 July (clinical medics); 9 August (undergraduates); 8 November (postgraduate masters)

These ceremonies are a chance to celebrate your achievements with friends, family, and faculty — a milestone worth marking!

Academic conferences and events

Looking to expand your knowledge and network with experts? The UK hosts several academic and educational events during the summer, including:

• International Higher Education Forum (IHEF): 4–5 June, University of Birmingham
• Learning, Teaching & Student Experience (LTSE): Dates TBC
• Advance HE Teaching and Learning Conference: Dates TBC
• AHEP Annual Conference and Exhibition: 1–3 June, Glasgow Caledonian University
• International Medieval Congress: Early July, University of Leeds

These conferences are ideal for presenting research, discovering new academic trends, and professional development.

Student traditions and end-of-year celebrations

• Cambridge May Week and May Balls – Mid-June: Expect elegant black-tie events and festive garden parties. These iconic celebrations mark the end of the academic year in true Cambridge style, though some events may be evolving to improve accessibility.

Make the most of summer 2025 — and start planning ahead

With so much happening across the UK this summer — from open days to graduation ceremonies and conferences — it’s also the perfect time to think about where you’ll be living next year.

Finding your student accommodation early is key to getting the best choice of locations, room types, and pricing. Popular properties near universities fill up quickly, especially ahead of September starts.

That’s where Hallbookers can help.

We’re a trusted platform helping students across the UK find purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA). Whether you’re looking for:

• A private studio
• An en-suite room in a shared flat
• A residence close to your university

We’ll help you compare verified listings, access exclusive offers, and book with confidence.

• All listings are fully verified
• Easy-to-use comparison tools
• Many properties offer cashback or student deals

And if you have questions, our team is always happy to help — from choosing the right property to securing your booking.

Start browsing now at hallbookers.co.uk and find your perfect student home for 2025.