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

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

Many more institutions across the UK are opening their doors this summer. You can check the full list on UCAS Events Calendar ( UCAS provides regional events for hundreds of universities, employers, and brands to connect face-to-face with thousands of young people actively seeking future options.)

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. Specific dates and times vary by university, but most ceremonies fall between mid-July and late July.

Confirmed schedules include:

• University of Oxford – 16, 17, 31 May; 19, 29 July
• University of Glasgow – July 1, 2025.
• 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
• University of Essex – Dates to be confirmed
• University of Liverpool – Full schedule available online

Here's a more detailed look at some universities and their ceremony schedules in 2025:

• University of Warwick: July 14-25, 2025, with two ceremonies per day (11:00 am and 3:00 pm).
• University of Reading: July 22-30, 2025, with the specific dates and times for each cohort to be confirmed.
• Coventry University: July 21-25, 2025.
• Leeds Beckett University: July 14-18, 2025, with all award levels for each course attending the same ceremony.
• University of Sheffield: July 21-25, 2025.
• University of Wolverhampton: July 25-31, 2025.
• University of York: July 19-25, 2025, with no ceremonies on Sunday, July 20.
• University of Hull: July 14, 2025.
• University of Manchester: July 7-22, 2025.
• Heriot-Watt University (Edinburgh): June 17-18, 2025.
• University of West London: December 2-3, 2025 (Winter Graduation).
• Manchester Metropolitan University: July 14-25, 2025.
• University of Liverpool: July 14-18, 2025.
• University of South Wales: July 14-16, 2025.
• UWE Bristol: Weeks commencing July 21 and 28, 2025.
• Queen Margaret University: July 2025.
• Goldsmiths, University of London: January 14-17, 2025 (Winter Graduation).
• Balliol College, University of Oxford: July 19, 2025 (clinical medics and doctoral degrees); August 9, 2025 (undergraduates and some postgraduate masters); November 8, 2025 (postgraduate masters).

These ceremonies are a chance to celebrate academic achievements with friends, family, and faculty.

Academic conferences and events

For students, researchers, and academics looking to expand their knowledge and network, the UK hosts a range of educational conferences during the summer:

• 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 events are ideal for those looking to present research, discover new ideas, or engage in professional development.

Student traditions and End-of-Year celebrations

• Cambridge May Week and May Balls – Mid-June: Known for its elegant black-tie events and lively garden parties, Cambridge’s May Week marks the end of exams and the academic year. Some events may have adjusted formats or pricing based on recent discussions about 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 academic conferences — it's also the perfect time to think about where you’ll be living next year.

Finding student accommodation early is key to getting the best choice of locations, room types, and pricing.

The most popular properties near universities often fill up fast — especially for the academic year starting in September. Whether you're a returning student or about to start your first year, securing your room sooner rather than later will save you stress and give you more options.

That’s where Hallbookers can help.

We’re a trusted platform that helps students find and compare purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) across the UK.

Whether you’re looking for a studio, an en-suite room in a shared flat, or a residence close to your university, we can connect you with the right option — at the right price.

Our listings are:

• Fully verified
• Easy to compare
• Often come with exclusive offers or cashback deals

And if you need help deciding, our team is always here to answer your questions — from choosing a property to booking your room.

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