Graduation Ceremonies

Gowning and Photography

Gown hire

Graduates must wear academic dress to cross the stage. Once bookings open, you will receive an email with instructions on how to hire your gown via Ede & Ravenscroft.

• You must hire your gown in advance to ensure availability.
• A confirmation of order email will be sent after booking, including a QR code required for gown collection.
• If you have any booking issues, contact graduations@bcu.ac.uk for assistance.

While some gowns may be available on the day, they will be subject to availability, may be recycled from previous ceremonies and will cost more.

For more details, check your booking confirmation email or visit the Ede & Ravenscroft website.

On the Day of Your Ceremony, please remember to: 

• Bring your gown hire reference number and a form of photographic identification.
• Dress appropriately (e.g., business attire, buttoned shirt/fitted blouse for securing the gown).
• Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking across the stage.
• Return your gown before leaving Symphony Hall unless you’ve arranged an extended hire.

Graduating Members of Staff

If you are a BCU staff member, please follow the instructions sent to your email. If you have not received an email, contact graduations@bcu.ac.uk with your staff ID number.

Photography

Professional photography will be available at the venue through Ede and Ravenscroft.

How to book photography:

• Pre-book a package via their website once bookings open.
• Payments can also be made on the day (card only, AMEX not accepted).

Photos should be taken before your ceremony, but you may have the opportunity for additional photos afterwards if queues are long.

You're also welcome to take your own photos with guests at Brindley Place or Centenary Square, both great backdrops for memorable pictures.

Refunds & Queries

If you need to cancel your gown hire, this must be done directly through Ede and Ravenscroft. In accordance with Ede and Ravenscroft’s Refunds policy, cancellations must be requested at least seven days before the date of the first ceremony takes place to be eligible for a refund.

• To cancel your order, you must either: Contact Ede and Ravenscroft with your name, address and order reference, stating that you wish to cancel, or
• Complete their Cancellation Form and return it to the address provided on the form.

For any gown hire or photography queries, including refunds, please contact Ede and Ravenscroft directly. The university is unable to process these requests.