As Stanford seniors ascend the steps to the commencement stage to receive their diplomas this June, one problem they won’t have to worry about is being weighed down by heavy wallets. One of the less noted aspects of graduation season is that it winds up being rather pricey. Between cap and gown rentals, formal tickets and yearbook costs, seniors can expect to spend something to the tune of $200 to partake in the various festivities and memorabilia in their honor.

This might seem like a minor point in comparison to the roughly $40,000 charged to undergraduates every year for tuition and boarding, but it is noteworthy in that all seniors, regardless of their economic circumstances, are expected to pay out of pocket for these expenses. Factor in the transportation and lodging costs for family and well-wishers coming to see our graduating seniors off, and it all adds up to a fairly substantial sum — one which may be prohibitive to students of more modest means.

The University Financial Aid Office considers graduation expenses within the category of personal costs and, therefore, does not provide any extra financial support to help. This is a broadly defensible position, as students are not required to participate in any of the events associated with graduation. Still, at least as far as the commencement ceremony itself, we might ask whether we want financial concerns to discourage participation in something as important as graduation. Commencement is a deeply meaningful event and one in which all students who have earned a degree should feel free to participate without guilt or hesitation.

Given these considerations, we advise the University to look into ways of providing financial assistance for students who might be discouraged from participating otherwise. This gesture would help Stanford continue working toward its goal of being a community that welcomes all students, regardless of their social or economic backgrounds.