Frequently Asked Questions
I'm not able to attend the ceremony - do I still need to register?
Yes! We need to know if you want to graduate in absentia or defer your attendance to a future ceremony. If you graduate in absentia, your award will be conferred in your absence and you won't be eligible to attend a future ceremony. You will receive your certificate and programme by post within six weeks of the ceremony taking place. Register at the Graduation registration site.
If I've forgotten to book an extra ticket or ordered too many tickets, what can I do?
The deadline for booking tickets is 4 October. Extra tickets can't be guaranteed after the deadline has passed and we are unable to offer any refunds.
When do I get my tickets?
You can collect your tickets from the BU Ticket Collection Desks in the Solent Hall at the BIC on the day of your ceremony. Please make sure you have your graduation registration email confirmation with you and are aware of your full course title and the award you will be receiving (also printed on the top of the letter we sent you). You won't receive your tickets in the post.
Do you have any recommendations for accomodation?
Contact Bournemouth Tourism for more information Tel 01202 451722 or email deleres@bournemouth.gov.uk
What is the dress code?
Academic dress is obligatory. Please be aware that your clothes are still clearly visible under your gown and it's expected that all graduands will dress formally, as is appropriate to the occasion (men should wear a shirt and tie; jeans and trainers are not acceptable). Please note that you do not wear your hat to graduate.
What time should I arrive for the ceremony?
We recommend that you arrive an hour and a half before the ceremony (see timetable), in order to allow enough time to make all the necessary arrangements. With up to three ceremonies taking place on one day, all of the facilities are expected to be extremely busy.
Is it best to have my pictures taken before the ceremony?
We recommend you do in order to avoid queues. The photographers will be available in the Solent Hall from 8am on the day of your ceremony.
Is there parking?
The car park at the BIC is a public pay-and-display car park and isn't reserved exclusively for this event. Please visit The BIC website for more details on the parking facilities available (including charges and facilities for the disabled).
Can I bring my children?
The ceremony is unsuitable for children under five years of age. However, if you do decide to bring a young guest they will need a ticket of their own and must be accompanied by an adult. Please ensure that you include this information when you make your booking. There are no crèche facilities available at the BIC on the day. The nearest nursery is Teddy's Place.
Where do I collect my certificate from?
You collect it at your ceremony after you have been on stage. If you are not able to attend your ceremony you need to register to graduate in absentia so we can send it to you at your correct address.
How long will my ceremony be?
Approximately one and a half hours.