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Fri, 24 Jul 2026

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 Students tell us how to keep graduation outfit costs down

Four newly graduated students tell us how they kept the cost of their dresses and suits down.

* Thrifting online can save hundreds of pounds
* Some students ask family members, such as parents or siblings, for help with outfit costs
* Renting a cap and gown is an option, but prices vary by university (e.g., £42 at the University of Salford)
* Buying official photographs can also be expensive (£30-£350 at the University of Salford)
* Some students opt to create their own outfits or ask family members to make them
* Social media platforms like Depop are being used to buy second-hand graduation dresses
* Students often feel pressure to spend money on graduation, especially if they're first-generation university attendees