Northeastern’s London campus prepares to ring in the new academic year
Here’s a guide to help incoming students navigate the 2026 convocation ceremony for the Northeastern University’s London campus.
LONDON – Convocation marks the start of the journey for new undergraduate students starting out at Northeastern University’s London campus.
“Convocation is a global event that we host welcoming new undergraduate students to the Northeastern experience and the Northeastern campus community,” said Chelsea Kryspin, associate director of academic ceremonies and signature events in the advancement office at Northeastern.
Convocation brings together the incoming London Scholars, first-year students who spend their entire inaugural academic year studying at Northeastern’s London campus before transitioning back to Boston for the remainder of their U.S. Bachelors degree, and students enrolled in the university’s London’s three-year degree programs, for a welcome ceremony. It is designed to introduce fellow Huskies, help make connections and encourage everyone to embrace the opportunities ahead.
When and where is convocation?
Convocation will take place on Thursday, Sept. 10 at 11:30 BST at a live music venue known as indigo at The O2. This is part of The O2 arena, a major entertainment venue by the River Thames. It is located at: 205 Peninsula Square, London, SE10 0ES. Doors open at 10:30 a.m.
London Scholars living in university accommodations will be able to travel to the venue in groups organized by their Community Coordinators.
All other students are encouraged to use Google Maps or Citymapper to plan their journey. The nearest tube station to the venue is North Greenwich Station, which is served by the Jubilee line. The station exits directly into Peninsula Square beside The O2. The indigo is located inside and there will be Northeastern branding to help students find the right location.
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For parents and families, London convocation will be live-streamed on NGN.
What happens during convocation?
Convocation is a chance for London students to start their year by building community with classmates, staff and faculty. During the ceremony, they will hear from a lineup of professors, campus leadership and Northeastern graduates, who will share their success stories.
London convocation speakers will include:
- Scott Wildman, dean of London Campus
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As part of Convocations across the network, the tradition of a torch-lighting ceremony visually marks the start of undergraduates’ journey.
What should students wear?
Convocation is intended to be informal. Students can wear whatever they feel comfortable in or red and black Northeastern colors! The event will take place indoors in an air-conditioned venue.
Is convocation mandatory?
Yes. Convocation is a mandatory event for all incoming undergraduate students, including London Scholars and students enrolled on Northeastern University London’s three-year degree programs.
No registration is required for the ceremony itself.
What should students expect?
Above all, organizers want students to arrive ready to meet new people, try something different and enjoy themselves.
Convocation is more than just speeches. Students should look forward to lots of high energy performances, music, dancing and fun interactive experiences. It will help students understand the greater Northeastern network and feel the sense of belonging that will shape their university experience from day one.
What happens after the ceremony?
Convocation is expected to last about an hour and afterward, students will take part in community-building activities around The O2 and Greenwich Peninsula. Lunch will be provided as part of all activities.
Attendees will also be able to sign-up to enjoy two major activities at The O2 as part of the day’s festivities:
- Toca Social, an immersive soccer experience.
- Hollywood Bowl, a tenpin bowling alley.
For students who prefer a more low-key activity, there is also the option to sign-up to head out on Greenwich Peninsula Art Trail, a series of sculptures and installations from world renowned artists including Damien Hirst and Morag Myerscough.
How do students sign up for the afternoon activities?
Information about Welcome Week events will be shared with students via their university email accounts, where they will be able to review the options and sign up.
