Students graduating from the University of Strathclyde will no longer have to pay graduation fees.

The move comes following discussions with Strathclyde Student’s Union and the Student Experience Committee.

Before the changes, students had to pay £35 to attend a graduation ceremony and £20 to graduate if they did not attend their ceremony in the University’s Barony Hall.

Following discussions between students and staff, and an informal poll conducted by the Union in which more than 1,200 students voted to abolish the fees, students will now graduate free of charge from this year’s ceremonies in 2019.

Matt Crilly, President of Strath Union, said: “I’m so happy about this! After years of studying, everyone should be able to enjoy their graduation regardless of their financial situation.

“This will go a long way in helping students, and the Student Union will still be supporting students who struggle with the cost of gown hire. I thank the University for listening to the student voice.”

Professor Sara Carter, Associate Principal (Learning & Teaching), added: “The University of Strathclyde works in close partnership with Strathclyde Students’ Union and, through partnership working, we became aware of concerns about graduation ceremony fees.

“Graduations are the highlight of the academic year, eagerly anticipated by graduands, their families and friends as well as by staff in Academic Departments and Schools and in Professional Services.

“I am delighted that the University has agreed to remove both the £20 fee to graduate in absentia and the £35 ceremony attendance fee with immediate effect, ensuring that students graduating in summer 2019 will be able to benefit.”

The move was welcomed by the NUS Scotland President Liam McCabe.

He commented: “I am delighted that the University of Strathclyde Students' Association have won their battle and convinced the University to scrap all graduation fees for their students.

“All credit must go to the Students’ Association. They have corrected a financial injustice which sought to penalise students for their academic success. Strathclyde students will now be free to graduate, without financial barriers.

“This comes following NUS Scotland’s FOI revelation on the true price of graduation for Scotland’s students. We would further appeal to all other institutions to take note, listen to students and remove these unjustifiable charges for student graduation.”