Students Beat High Graduation Costs with Smart Fashion

University students are adopting budget-friendly approaches to secure their graduation outfits, with many choosing to thrift, tailor, or rent their attire. Keerthana Krishnadas found her graduation dress second-hand for approximately £80, highlighting a trend of saving money on outfits worn only once. This approach helps manage the overall cost of graduation, which extends to transport, accommodation, and photography services. The financial strain is particularly acute for first-generation university students, who often face pressure to celebrate their achievement despite coming from lower-income backgrounds.

Some students, like Ehis Oboh, collaborated with family members, enlisting a tailor brother in Nigeria to design his suit. Others, such as Wendy Adu Amankwah, had outfits made by designer mothers, emphasizing the personal significance of creating a unique look for the day. Rental costs for caps and gowns vary, with the University of Salford charging £42 for undergraduates and postgraduates, and the University of Manchester charging slightly more. Professional photography packages can also be expensive, with prices ranging from £30 to £350 at the University of Salford.

Students often find themselves in a vulnerable financial position during graduation, having absorbed study costs throughout the academic year. Maintenance loans frequently fall short of living expenses, necessitating parental support, part-time work, or debt to cover the shortfall. Platforms like Depop have also become popular for last-minute, affordable dress purchases. The pressure to look one's best for this milestone is significant, leading some to experience sleep difficulties the night before their ceremony.