You’ve done it — you’ve completed your UNISA qualification, and graduation day is finally on the horizon! Now comes the exciting task of sorting out your graduation attire. But should you hire your gown or buy it outright? Let’s break down both options so you can make the best choice for your special day.
The Case for Hiring Your UNISA Graduation Gown
For most UNISA graduates, hiring is the practical and affordable choice. You’ll only wear your graduation gown once (maybe twice if you’re celebrating with family afterwards), so it makes sense not to invest in something that will sit in your wardrobe.
At MD Gowns, our hire packages include everything you need — gown, hood, and mortarboard — all freshly cleaned and hygienically pressed before they reach you. Plus, with the lowest prices guaranteed and nationwide delivery across South Africa, you can focus on what really matters: celebrating your achievement.
Hiring is ideal if you:
- Want to save money for other graduation expenses
- Don’t have storage space for academic regalia
- Prefer a hassle-free experience with everything included
When Buying Makes Sense
Purchasing your graduation attire is a meaningful investment for certain graduates. If you’re completing a Master’s or PhD, you may attend future graduation ceremonies as faculty or to support colleagues. Owning your regalia means you’re always ready.
Buying is also perfect if you want to keep your gown as a treasured memento of your hard work. Many graduates frame their hoods or display them alongside their certificates. A Master’s graduation stole or hood makes a beautiful keepsake that represents years of dedication.
Consider buying if you:
- Plan to attend future academic ceremonies
- Want a lasting memento of your achievement
- Are completing a postgraduate qualification
What About Postgraduate UNISA Students?
If you’re graduating with a Master’s degree or doctorate, your regalia is more specialised — and often more meaningful to keep. The distinctive hood colours represent your faculty and qualification level, making them unique to your journey.
Many postgraduate students choose to hire the gown but purchase their hood separately. This gives you the best of both worlds: affordability and a personal keepsake.
Making Your Decision
There’s no wrong answer here — it all depends on your budget, storage space, and how sentimental you’re feeling about your achievement (and after studying through UNISA, you have every right to feel proud!).
Whatever you decide, MD Gowns has you covered. We serve UNISA graduates across South Africa with quality regalia at the best prices.
Ready to sort out your graduation attire? Browse our Master’s graduation stoles and hoods or explore our full range of UNISA graduation gown hire options. Order early to ensure delivery before your big day!