10 things to know for your graduation...🎓

Your Students’ Union would like to congratulate all BCU students that are completing their studies this summer. Whether you decide to attend your graduation or not, it’s time to celebrate all your hard work and accomplishments with family and friends.

1. Double check ceremony times

This year’s Summer Graduation ceremonies will take place from Monday 21st July -  Friday 25th July, at Symphony Hall, Birmingham City Centre. 

BCU has revealed the full schedule for summer graduation ceremonies. Double check your times and dates match up with your faculty to ensure you don’t mistakenly arrive at the incorrect ceremony. 

This year there are three ceremony times: 

• Morning: 9:30am – 11:30am 

• Afternoon: 1:30pm – 3:30pm 

• Evening: 5pm – 7pm

2. Plan your route in advance​  

It’s best to prepare for unexpected events that could make you late, especially on important days like graduation.  

Pre-plan your routes, especially if you’re commuting from outside Birmingham. Choose a route and travel method that is most suitable for you and that will get to your ceremony on time.  

We advise arriving at your ceremony at least 90 minutes before the ceremony starts to allow time for registration, gown collection and photography.*

3. Inviting friends and family

Inviting family or friends from abroad? BCU has a guide on how to do so most effectively including a draft/example of an invitation letter and requirements. 

Please note that BCU nor BCUSU cannot guarantee visa applications nor timings and decision are made by the UK Visas and Immigration*

4. Book your tickets early

Initial guest tickets for graduation (limited to two tickets per graduate and subject to availability). They will be released on Tuesday 27 May 2025 from 10am onwards.  

BCU send booking via email directly to students who have successfully registered and reserved a seat for their ceremony. 

To ensure you, and your family or friends, get a seat inside at the ceremony book your tickets in advance. For more information on ticket terms, additional tickets and prices, visit.

5. View schedule of the day beforehand 

View the ceremony schedule so you know where to go for graduation gowns and photography. Gown hire will be available at Hall 4 and Photography at Hall 3 (before your ceremony)  

Pre-booking for photography packages through Ede and Ravenscroft website will open on Tuesday 27th May 2025 from 10:00am onwards.   

For accessibility, Symphony Hall is fully accessible, with staff available to assist graduates and guests with mobility needs. 

• Accessible parking is available for Blue Badge holders but must be booked in advance when securing guest tickets. Spaces are limited and available 90 minutes before the ceremony with a 30-minute departure window after the event. 

• A drop-off point for wheelchair users is located at the traffic island on Cambridge Street with pedestrian access via King Alfred’s Place. 

6. Be Prepared

Here’s some quick tips that could really help: 

• Check-out locations where you may want to take photos before the day. You can always take outside the Symphony Hall but keep in mind that it may be busy. Check our TikTok for places we recommend

• Carry a portable fan (not needed but recommended... especially for summer graduations) 

• Stay hydrated, bring a water bottle, or some snacks, you can always get water at the venue bar however queues may be long 

• Planning to wear heels? You may want to bring an extra pair of flats. You will be walking around... a lot 

• Carry pocket tissues. Multi use (sweat, tears, hayfever etc.) 

• Extra safety pins and hair grips: these are multi use and can help to secure your cap or gown in place 

7. Have a digital copy of your certificate

Did you know you could also have a digital copy of your degree certificate? 

Award certificates will not be presented at your graduation ceremony, and receiving it is not a requirement to attend. However, your award must be confirmed by an exam board for you to be eligible to graduate. 

For more details on how to receive your certificate view here

8. After your ceremony...

Depending on personal preference, have a plan after your ceremony. Whether it's a house party or a drink with family and friends, usually our graduates celebrate with their loved ones after the ceremony.  

If you do decide on eating out, remember to make reservations and plan transport as during grad season, it can get busy.  

Some restaurants or bars do deals for recent graduates, have a look online for the best! 

9. Make the most of your university services

You still get access to university services such as your email and Careers+ up to one year after you graduate through setting up a graduate account.

Utilise Careers+ services to tailor your CV to your degree, fine tune your interviewing skills and get access to job suggestions related to your area of interest, aiding your job hunt after you graduate. 

10. Lastly, have Fun!

This day is to celebrate you. Remember that sometimes unexpected things can happen, but a day does not have to be perfect to be memorable.  

Don’t forget to take many pictures if you can and be sure to tag us on socials @yourbcusu #BCUSUClassof2025