For guests

At SOAS we understand that family and friends are a big part of the graduation ceremony, which is why we want to make sure your day is as exciting and enjoyable as possible. 

Here's everything guests need to know about what to do on the day. 

Graduation ceremonies are held at Friends House in Euston, with related activities for graduands and their guests (such as ticket collection, gown hire and photography) taking place on the SOAS campus. The journey from campus to the venue is about a 10-15 minute walk, with SOAS stewards in brightly coloured t-shirts along the way to point you in the right direction. 

Friends House is easily accessible by public transport, and is directly opposite Euston overground and underground stations. It is located within the congestion charging zone with limited parking. 

Guests are advised to take their seats at least 30 minutes before the ceremony. Doors will close 15 minutes prior to the start of the ceremony, so please make sure that you are seated by then.

Your seat number will be displayed on your ticket. It is very important that you sit in the correct seat that has been allocated to you during the ceremony. If you have any difficulties finding your seat, please talk to a member of the Graduation staff who will be on hand to assist.

Children are very welcome to attend graduation celebrations, however due to the length and formal nature of the ceremony the event may not be appropriate for young children. A separate guest ticket is required for a child over the age of three who must be supervised throughout. 

Due to health and safety restrictions, prams should be left in the complimentary cloakroom.

There is no official dress code for guests, however the ceremony is a formal occasion, and most people choose to dress smartly in accordance with this. National dress of your home country is very much welcomed.  

A manned cloakroom will be available free of charge at Friends House, where you can leave coats, bags and prams.  

Please bring minimal bags with you where possible, as the cloakroom has limited capacity. Please note that large bags, suitcases and prams are not permitted inside the ceremony hall.