Convocation, as the body of graduates of the University, was established by Charter of 1858 and flourished throughout the period when the central organs of the University were dominant. Over the years the officers and members of Convocation made a valuable contribution to the affairs of the University.

Recent years however have seen the development of the University truly as a federation of independent self-governing higher education institutions. This changed the focus of students and graduates so that the number of graduates joining Convocation was very small.

Against the background of change and development within the wider University a review group was convened to consider the future of Convocation.

This group reported to the University Council in July 2002. The Council resolved that the time had come to change the Statutes and abolish Convocation, a view endorsed by the Convocation Board.

Following the due process of consultation and decision making required under the University of London Act new Statutes were approved by Privy Council on 17 July 2003. These came into effect on 1 September 2003 and from that date Convocation ceased to exist.

All graduates continue to be eligible to join the Alumni Associations of the Colleges and Institutes.