Attending a live event at Brigham Young University is a tradition for many families, students, and sports fans. Whether you are looking to cheer on the Cougars at a packed football game or enjoy a sophisticated evening at a symphony performance, securing your entry is the first step. Navigating the ticketing process can seem complex at first, but once you understand the system, it becomes a simple task. This guide provides a comprehensive look at how to find, purchase, and manage tickets for all university-related events, ensuring you never miss a moment of the action.
Understanding the Types of Tickets Available
The university hosts a wide variety of events throughout the year, ranging from high-energy athletic competitions to world-class performing arts. Knowing which category your event falls into will help you find the right section of the ticketing portal. The most common tickets sought are for athletic events, particularly football and men’s basketball, which often sell out quickly due to high demand.
Athletic Event Tickets
Athletics are a major part of the campus culture. Fans can purchase tickets for football, basketball, volleyball, soccer, baseball, and more. For major sports like football, tickets are often sold as season packages first, followed by individual game tickets. If you are a frequent attendee, season tickets offer the best value and guaranteed seating for the biggest games of the year. For smaller sports, such as gymnastics or softball, tickets are generally more accessible and can often be purchased closer to the event date.
Performing Arts and Cultural Events
Beyond the playing field, the university is home to a vibrant arts scene. This includes performances by the ballroom dance team, orchestral concerts, theater productions, and guest lecture series. These events are typically held in specialized venues like the Harris Fine Arts Center or the de Jong Concert Hall. Tickets for these events are managed through the same central system but may have different pricing tiers based on seat location and performance type.
How to Purchase Your Tickets Online
The most efficient way to secure your spot is through the official university ticketing platform. This digital portal allows you to view real-time availability, choose your specific seats using an interactive map, and receive your tickets instantly. To get started, you will need to create a guest account or log in with your existing university credentials if you are a student or faculty member.
Step 1: Create an Account
Before you can add tickets to your cart, you must have a registered account. This account stores your digital tickets and allows you to transfer them to friends or family later. You will need to provide a valid email address and contact information. It is highly recommended to set this up well before a popular game goes on sale, as high traffic can slow down the registration process during peak times.
Step 2: Browse the Schedule
Once logged in, you can browse the calendar of events. The interface usually allows you to filter by sport or event type. Each listing will show the date, time, and venue. For high-demand games, you may see a ‘waiting room’ feature that manages the flow of users on the site. Be patient and do not refresh your browser, as this could lose your place in line.
Step 3: Select Your Seats
The interactive seating map is a powerful tool. It allows you to see the view from different sections of the stadium or arena. High-up seats usually offer a broader view of the play, while lower-level seats get you closer to the intensity of the game. Once you select your seats, they will be held in your cart for a limited time—usually about ten minutes—giving you enough time to complete the checkout process.
Special Access: The ROC Pass for Students
Students have a unique way to experience games known as the ROC Pass. ROC stands for the Roar of the Cougars, and this pass provides students with access to all home athletic events for a single annual fee. It is the most cost-effective way for students to attend games, though it does not guarantee a specific seat. Instead, it offers access to a dedicated student section on a first-come, first-served basis.
Students must be enrolled in a minimum number of credit hours to be eligible for the ROC Pass. Once purchased, the pass is linked directly to the student’s ID. On game day, students simply scan their digital ID at the gate. Because the student section is general admission, many students choose to arrive several hours early to secure front-row spots, especially for rivalry games.
Managing and Using Digital Tickets
The university has moved almost entirely to a digital ticketing system. This means you will not receive a paper ticket in the mail. Instead, your tickets will live on your smartphone. This system is designed to reduce fraud and make it easier for fans to manage their entries. After your purchase is complete, you will receive a confirmation email with instructions on how to access your digital wallet.
Accessing Your Mobile Wallet
To enter the venue, you will need to display a QR code on your phone screen. It is best to add your tickets to your Apple Wallet or Google Pay app before arriving at the stadium. This ensures that you can access your tickets even if cellular service is spotty due to the large crowds. Screenshots of tickets are often not accepted because the QR codes are dynamic and refresh every few seconds for security purposes.
Transferring Tickets to Others
If you purchased tickets for a group, you can easily send individual tickets to your friends. Within the ticketing portal, there is a ‘Transfer’ button. You simply enter the recipient’s email address or phone number, and they will receive a link to claim their ticket. This is the safest way to share tickets, as it ensures the recipient has a valid, unique barcode for entry.
Tips for a Smooth Game Day Experience
Getting your tickets is only half the battle; getting into the game is the next step. To ensure a stress-free experience, keep the following tips in mind. First, arrive early. For major football games, the stadium gates usually open two hours before kickoff. Arriving early allows you to pass through security and find your seat without rushing. Second, be aware of the clear bag policy. Most university venues restrict the types of bags you can bring inside to enhance safety and speed up the entry process.
Parking can also be a challenge on game days. Many lots near the stadiums are reserved for season ticket holders or Cougar Club members. Public parking is available but may require a shuttle ride or a long walk. Checking the parking maps on the official athletics website a few days before the event can save you a lot of frustration when you arrive on campus.
Avoiding Common Ticket Scams
Because tickets for popular events are in high demand, third-party sellers and scammers often try to take advantage of fans. The safest way to buy is always through the official university ticket office. If you choose to buy from a secondary market, use reputable platforms that offer buyer protection. Avoid sending money via untraceable apps to individuals you do not know. If a deal seems too good to be true, such as front-row seats for a fraction of the market price, it is likely a scam. Always look for the official transfer of the ticket into your university account to verify its authenticity.
Conclusion
Securing tickets for university events is a straightforward process when you use the official channels and plan ahead. By creating your account early, understanding the digital wallet system, and knowing the specific entry requirements for your venue, you can focus on enjoying the event rather than worrying about the logistics. Whether you are a student using a ROC Pass or a fan traveling from out of state, the atmosphere of a live campus event is something you won’t want to miss. For more helpful guides on navigating campus life or managing digital services, explore our other articles to stay informed and prepared.