How to collect file uploads from attendees (File Upload survey question)
The File Upload survey question type lets you collect files from attendees during the ticket-buying process. This is useful for events that require headshots, registration forms, proof of certification, sponsor logo assets, or any other document from attendees before the event.
Setting up a File Upload question
- Go to My Account → Manage Events and click Edit Tickets for your event.
- Open the ticket type you want to configure.
- Enable Ask Survey Questions? and open the survey questions panel.
- Click Add Question and choose File Upload as the question type.
- Give the question a clear label, e.g. Please upload your headshot (JPG or PNG).
- Choose the allowed file types — you must select at least one. Common options include:
- Images: JPG, PNG, GIF
- Documents: PDF, DOC, DOCX
- Spreadsheets: XLS, XLSX
- Other formats as needed
- Set whether the question is required or optional.
- Save your ticket type.
Using the File Upload preset
In the survey question panel, the Sponsorship Assets preset automatically adds a select question for asset type plus a conditional file-upload follow-up question. The File Upload preset adds a standalone file-upload question. These are starting points — you can edit them after adding.
How attendees upload files
During checkout, attendees see the file upload question with a file picker button. They can select a file from their device. Only file types you have allowed will be accepted. After the order is complete, the file is stored securely on Ticket Falcon's servers.
Downloading uploaded files
Uploaded files appear in the Event Dashboard under the downloads section. Files are grouped by attendee. You can download individual files or export all uploads for your event.
The download section only appears for events that have at least one File Upload question on a ticket type.
File retention policy
| Situation | When the file is deleted |
|---|---|
| Attendee starts checkout but does not complete the order | 48 hours after the upload |
| Order is completed (paid or free ticket) | 30 days after the event ends |
| Order is cancelled, refunded, or failed | Deleted sooner, based on order status |
Files are deleted automatically — you do not need to take any action. If you need to retain files beyond 30 days after the event, download them from the Event Dashboard before that deadline.
Cutoff dates are displayed in your event's timezone on the dashboard.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum file size? File size limits depend on your account tier. The upload field will display an error if the file exceeds the allowed size.
Can I allow any file type? You must select at least one allowed type when creating the question. Not all file types may be available — select the specific formats you need.
Can I add multiple file upload questions to one ticket type? Yes — you can add multiple file upload questions to the same ticket type if you need to collect different types of files separately (e.g. a headshot and a signed waiver).
Are uploads secure? Yes. Uploaded files are stored securely in cloud storage. Download links are time-limited (60-second signed URLs) so files cannot be shared via a static link.