Congratulations Class of 2026! U of T counts down to spring convocation

Excitement is building across the University of Toronto’s three campuses as graduating students prepare to turn the page on their studies and celebrate their accomplishments at this year’s spring convocation ceremonies.

During 36 ceremonies held June 1 to 18, more than 15,000 graduands from across U of T’s three campuses are expected to cross the stage at Convocation Hall to the applause of their peers, families and friends.

In all, more than 17,600 students are graduating this spring, representing more than 127 countries and all corners of Canada. They range in age from 20 to 72.

“I can’t wait to celebrate the Class of 2026 during this year’s spring convocation,” said U of T President Melanie Woodin. “Thanks to your talent, creativity and hard work, you will be embarking on a new chapter with the tools to make a real difference in your chosen fields, your communities and the world.

“I’m thrilled for you to join the vibrant community of U of T graduates around the world who are helping to build a better future.”

Everything you need to know before the big day

The spring convocation schedule kicks off on June 1 with the ceremony for the Temerty Faculty of Medicine and wraps up on June 18 with ceremonies for Rotman Commerce, although behind-the-scenes preparations – such as preparing parchments and training volunteers to read the names of graduating students – have been underway for weeks. Each ceremony will also be livestreamed at U of T's Convocation Hub and later posted to U of T’s YouTube channel and MyMedia archive. 

The hub is also a go-to resource for graduating students and those cheering them on in person or from afar. It includes information about guests (graduating students can each bring a maximum of two into Convocation Hall), a helpful checklist and an interactive map that includes information about key locations, parking and transit (especially important this year with the FIFA World Cup kicking off in Toronto June 11), food and drinks and photo-worthy spots. 

For questions about how to wear academic gowns and hoods, or what items can be brought inside Convocation Hall, graduating students and their supporters can consult the hub’s FAQ page.

Come the big day, graduating students will collect their regalia at the Medical Sciences Building before assembling for the procession to Convocation Hall. Guests without a seat inside the hall can follow the proceedings from an alternate viewing location at the Sandford Fleming Building.

Steeped in tradition

The proceedings themselves are steeped in nearly 200 years of tradition. They include colourful hoods, flowing gowns, a bedel carrying U of T’s gold-plated mace and a 51-bell carillon ringing out from atop Soldiers’ Tower. The ceremonies also pay respect to Indigenous Peoples and cultural traditions, with the chancellor’s procession led into Convocation Hall by an Eagle Feather Bearer carrying a ceremonial Eagle Feather and wearing the Eagle Feather Bearer’s stole.

Honorary degrees and celebrations 

This year, nine luminaries will receive honorary degrees during spring convocation ceremonies, inspiring graduating students with insights gained from accomplishments across the arts, sciences, athletics, law and beyond.

After the ceremony, new graduates can reunite with their guests outside Convocation Hall, where Alumni Plaza will host a flower pick-up canopy and the U of T Bookstore's Teddy Bear Canopy. New grads can also collect an alumni pin from the Alumni Relations canopy at the Medical Sciences Building Plaza or visit the main U of T Bookstore for diploma framing.

All graduates and their guests are invited to share memories and photos on social media with the #UofTGrad26 hashtag.

“It is a true honour to be part of this milestone for the Class of 2026 – the moment when everything you have built behind you meets everything still ahead,” said Chancellor Wes Hall. “Congratulations on all you’ve achieved, and all that awaits you as part of U of T’s global alumni community.”

Visit U of T’s Spring Convocation Hub