Robinson May Ball’s committee has rejected hundreds of worker applications, after announcing that the event would go ahead as a “mega bop” instead of a full May Ball.

An email sent to over 400 rejected applicants on Tuesday (04/03) stated that, as a result of the May Ball committee’s decision to proceed with a “more inclusive and accessible event than previous years”, the May Ball committee had decided “against taking on the same quantity of staff as previous years”.

Applicants were told that the committee “sadly [had] no option” but to not take their applications further, with the committee signing off: “With deep regret”.

The application process consisted of a Google Form containing questions such as “Why do you want to work for Robinson 2025?”, “Please list any relevant previous experiences relevant to your chosen role”, and “What skills or qualities do you have that will make you a good fit for this role?” Students were also asked whether they were planning or hoping to work at any other May balls.

According to the May Ball job descriptions, half-on/half-off workers were to pay a refundable deposit of £120.

Set-up and clear-up workers were to be paid between £11.50 and £13.00 depending on their age, while all senior positions were to be paid £14.00 an hour.

The news comes after Downing May Ball revealed in an Instagram post on Monday (03/03) that Robinson students would be able to access discounted tickets at £196, which is the same price for non-Downing students and their guests.

The caption read: “We’re happy to announce that we’re doing a REDUCED ticket price for Robinson [s]tudents! There are a limited number of these tickets available, so snap them up before they go.” As of Wednesday (5/3), there were still tickets available for Robinson students wanting to attend the Downing May Ball.

Robinson announced last week that its May Ball would be replaced by a less expensive mega bop. Robinson students were informed of this change after applications for student workers had already opened, a launch party had taken place, and after the ‘Film Noir’ theme had been revealed.

There had been significant speculation that the Robinson May Ball was encountering significant financial challenges, with last year’s committee reportedly working with a reduced budget.

Robinson May Ball Committee was contacted for comment.