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McLean’s “Enchanted Forest” prom promises a memorable night on Friday, April 17, but students say the celebration could require hundreds of dollars—and even a missed day of school.

Expenses can range from about $100 to more than $600 once tickets, clothing, transportation, dinner and preparations are included. In a poll of 10 senior girls, all reported paying $75 for a ticket. A dress can cost up to $300, transportation runs between $60 and $90, dinner costs about $25 and accessories add roughly $30. Optional hair and nail appointments can push the total up by another $150.

“There is no reason that the tickets should be $75,” senior Julie Daniel said. “The experience of prom is something I’m willing to spend money on because I can make memories, but there could be lower ticket prices.”

Those costs have raised questions about whether prom is becoming financially exclusive. Some students feel pressure to spend enough to take part in the full experience, while others may decide not to attend.

This year’s Friday schedule is adding another complication. Students traditionally spend the day preparing together, often meeting for breakfast or brunch before getting dressed for the dance. A regular school day leaves much less time for those plans.

“I really don’t like it because normally I am able to enjoy the entire day with my friends and all get brunch together,” Daniel said. “I feel like it being on a school day gets in the way of that, and if I go to school for the full day there is no way I would be able to get ready on time.”

Some students are considering leaving school early or missing the day entirely, potentially sacrificing important classes and assignments to prepare for prom.

“Usually on dance days my friends and I have an entire day planned,” senior Raha Golshani said. “Prom being on a Friday when we have school just doesn’t give us enough time to get ready or do all the things that we want to do for our senior prom.”

Golshani said she and her friends will probably skip school that Friday, putting them behind on schoolwork.

Prom is intended to celebrate the end of high school and give seniors lasting memories with their friends. Rising expenses and the school-day scheduling, however, could make participating more difficult.

Senior Addison Ward believes the experience is worth the disruption.

“I think that in life you face adversity and I feel like this is one of those times we should overcome it,” Ward said. “Prom is one of these things you’re going to remember for the rest of your life, and I think that one day of school is worth missing.”