Savanna Hoffman
The cap and gown worn at graduation ceremonies are steeped in tradition, with the ritual of wearing graduation gowns dating back to the 12th century. Today, the cap and gown are considered a mandatory requirement for students who want to participate in the commencement ceremony. However, this has sparked controversy, with critics arguing that the fees discriminate against low-income students. The cost of the cap and gown, which can range from $60 to over $100, is often an additional expense on top of other graduation fees, such as application fees and the cost of renting or purchasing the regalia. While some schools offer fee waivers or rental options, others argue that these fees are necessary to cover administrative tasks and venue costs. This has led to a debate about whether the cap and gown should be included in the initial tuition price to ensure equal opportunity for all students to participate in their graduation ceremonies.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Mandatory requirement | Yes |
| Cost | $15-$125 |
| Rental options | Yes, but not always |
| Included in tuition fees | No |
| Waivers available | Yes, but not always |
Explore related products
$17.98 $18.98
What You'll Learn
Mandatory fees for walking at graduation
The tradition of wearing a cap and gown at graduation dates back to the 12th century when clerical clothing was a significant part of education due to the church's prominence. Today, wearing a cap and gown is a mandatory requirement for students who want to participate in the commencement ceremony. However, the mandatory fees associated with these attire requirements have sparked criticism, particularly concerning discrimination against low-income students.
High schools and colleges across the US charge students mandatory graduation fees, sometimes called walking fees, to participate in their graduation ceremonies. These fees can be a significant financial burden, with costs ranging from $60 to over $100 for the cap, gown, and tassel. Doctoral students may even incur regalia costs of up to $1,000. Some universities, such as Arizona State University, also charge a fee of around $50 just to "apply to graduate." These fees are often justified as necessary for administrative tasks like printing diplomas and renting graduation venues.
While some critics argue that students should be able to save for these fees, this assumption overlooks the financial realities of students struggling to cover essentials like food, housing, textbooks, and transportation. The mandatory graduation fees effectively lock many low-income students out of this important educational milestone, as they cannot afford to participate in their own commencement ceremonies. This issue has led to concerns about the discriminatory nature of these fees, barring marginalized students from fully celebrating their academic achievements due to economic disadvantages.
To address these concerns, some schools have implemented programs to alleviate the financial burden. For example, Santa Fe College allows students to apply to borrow a cap and gown, while UC Davis offers awards to cover the cap-and-gown fee. Additionally, external organizations like the non-profit Just C provide caps and gowns to high school students in Virginia who cannot afford them. However, not all districts and colleges have adopted such initiatives, leaving some students reliant on external support.
While the cap and gown are considered essential components of the graduation tradition, the mandatory fees associated with them have raised concerns about accessibility and equity in education. The financial strain of these expenses, coupled with the potential humiliation of applying for fee waivers, underscores the need for alternative solutions that ensure all students can participate in their graduation ceremonies regardless of their economic background.
Student Universe: Free or Paid?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
$14.99 $19.99
$17.98 $18.98
$15.79
Discrimination against low-income students
The tradition of wearing a cap and gown at graduation is a long-standing one, and it is often a source of pride and celebration for students and their families. However, the mandatory fees associated with these garments have been criticised as discriminating against low-income students. This issue is prevalent in both high schools and colleges, where students are required to pay significant amounts of money to participate in their graduation ceremonies.
The cost of a cap and gown can be a financial burden, especially for low-income students who may already be struggling to afford essentials like food, housing, textbooks, and transportation. At the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, for example, the cost of purchasing the cap, gown, and tassel is over $100, while regalia for doctoral students can cost upwards of $1,000. These fees are in addition to any other graduation fees that may be required, such as a walking fee or an application fee to graduate. For many students, these cumulative costs can make attending their graduation ceremony out of reach.
Some schools have recognised this issue and implemented measures to assist students. For instance, Santa Fe College allows students to apply to borrow a cap and gown, while UC Davis offers an award to cover the cap-and-gown fee. Other schools have set up funds or partnered with organisations to help students with financial need. However, not all schools provide such support, and even when fee waivers are available, students may find it humiliating to disclose their financial situation to the school administration.
The impact of these mandatory fees goes beyond financial hardship. Low-income students who are unable to pay the fees are effectively barred from attending their own commencement ceremony, missing out on a significant milestone and achievement. This can have a detrimental effect on their sense of accomplishment and pride in their academic achievements. It also reinforces social and economic inequalities, as only those with the financial means are able to fully participate in this tradition.
To address this issue, some have suggested including the cost of the cap and gown in the initial tuition price, rather than as an additional expense. Others have proposed the option to rent the garments, as is done in the UK, to reduce the financial burden on students. By recognising the financial diversity of their student bodies and providing alternatives to mandatory fees, educational institutions can ensure that all students have the opportunity to celebrate their graduation, regardless of their economic background.
How Employers Can Help Pay Off Student Loans
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Cap and gown rental options
While some students and their families feel that the cost of a cap and gown is an unnecessary expense, it is often required for students to purchase or rent a cap and gown if they want to participate in their graduation ceremony. This can be a significant expense, with some caps and gowns costing upwards of $75, and doctoral regalia costing up to $1,000. This can be especially burdensome for low-income students and families, and there is criticism that this system discriminates against them.
Some schools have addressed this issue by offering fee waivers, allowing students to borrow a cap and gown, or providing awards to cover the cost. However, not all schools offer these programs, and some students may feel uncomfortable or embarrassed applying for financial assistance.
For those who do not wish to purchase a cap and gown, or for whom the cost is prohibitive, renting is an option. Several companies offer cap and gown rental services, with prices starting at around $125. These companies often service a large number of educational institutions and offer a range of colors and styles to choose from. It is recommended to order at least two months in advance to avoid disappointment, as inventory can be depleted quickly during the graduation season.
In addition to renting a cap and gown, it is also possible to purchase regalia at a lower cost from online retailers. This may be a more affordable option for those who do not wish to rent, and it can also be a convenient solution for those who may have missed the deadline to order from their school.
Undocumented Students: Can They Escape Student Loan Debt?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
$16.99 $18.99
Cap and gown as an educational expense
The cap and gown are considered a mandatory requirement for students who want to participate in the commencement ceremony. The expense for the cap and gown, however, is not considered an educational expense. This means that the cost of the cap and gown cannot be claimed as a tax credit. The cost of the cap and gown is an additional expense on top of the tuition fees that students already pay.
The price of a cap and gown can vary, but it is typically around $75 without tax. Some universities, such as the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, charge over $100 for the cap, gown, and tassel. For doctoral students, regalia can cost up to $1,000. These costs can be a significant financial burden for students, especially those from low-income backgrounds.
Some schools have addressed this issue by offering waivers or rental options for caps and gowns. For example, Santa Fe College allows students to apply to borrow a cap and gown, while UC Davis offers an award that would pay the cap-and-gown fee. However, not all schools have these programs in place, and some students may still be unable to afford the cost of the cap and gown, even with these options.
The mandatory fee for the cap and gown has been criticized as discriminatory against low-income students. Critics argue that requiring students to pay for the cap and gown locks many low-income students out of an important educational milestone. Even when schools offer fee waivers, the process of applying for a waiver can be humiliating for students, as they may need to provide detailed financial information to the school.
Overall, the cap and gown are considered a significant expense for students, and the handling of these fees by schools has been a source of controversy. While some argue that the cap and gown should be included in the initial price of tuition, others believe that it is an unnecessary expense that can be avoided by choosing not to attend the graduation ceremony.
Scholarships: Repaying Student Loans or a Myth?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Cap and gown colour options
While there is a lot of debate around whether students should be required to pay for their caps and gowns, the graduation attire holds profound significance, symbolizing the transformative journey of academic achievement. The colours of graduation gowns often convey meaning associated with academic achievements and disciplines.
Black is a common colour for academic gowns, symbolizing a degree's foundation. However, different-coloured hoods or stoles represent specific fields of study. For example, blue indicates a degree in philosophy, green represents medicine, and white signifies arts and letters. Bachelor's gowns are often maroon, royal blue, or another school colour, while doctoral candidates usually wear black robes.
Gold cords are often used to symbolize honours or high academic achievement. Additionally, graduates may wear honour cords, stoles, or medallions to denote exceptional accomplishments. For instance, sashes or stoles in specific colours can represent a graduate's academic achievements, with gold often symbolizing honours. Graduation tassels also come in a range of colours and can feature a gold-plated charm, adding a sophisticated touch to the graduate's attire.
Graduates can also personalize their caps and gowns through customization options such as embroidery, screen printing, and heat transfers. This allows them to add their name, graduation year, or school emblem to their graduation attire, making the day even more memorable.
Scholarships: Repay Student Loans and Gain Financial Freedom
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
Yes, in most cases, students are required to pay for their cap and gown if they want to participate in the commencement ceremony.
The cost of a cap and gown can vary depending on the institution and level of degree. For example, at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, it costs over $100, while a doctoral student's regalia can cost $1,000.
Schools often report that graduation fees help cover administrative tasks like printing diplomas and paying for the graduation venue.
No, some schools allow students to rent caps and gowns, while others offer fee waivers or awards to cover the cost.
Yes, some students may choose not to attend the graduation ceremony to avoid the cost. Additionally, some schools offer fee waivers or awards to cover the cost for those who qualify.
