What is the etiquette for wearing graduation regalia?

Graduation regalia etiquette involves wearing the gown zipped up, cap level with the forehead (tassel on the right before degree, left after), and the hood draped with the velvet border showing and secured to the gown, all while keeping it neat and underneath decorations like stoles, with comfortable shoes recommended. Dress business casual underneath, hang your gown beforehand to de-wrinkle, and remember that specifics can vary by institution, so check your school's guidelines.

What are the graduation gown etiquette rules?

Graduation Attire Etiquette: Dos and Don'ts for a Picture-Perfect...

• Follow Academic Guidelines: ...
• Wear the Cap and Gown Properly: ...
• Choose Appropriate Undergarments: ...
• Select Conservative Clothing: ...
• Consider Comfort: ...
• Accessorize Thoughtfully: ...
• Check for Wrinkles: ...
• Follow the Tassel Tradition:

Why does the tassel go from right to left?

You move your tassel from the right to the left at graduation to symbolize the transition from being a student to a graduate, marking the completion of your degree, with the right side representing your student status and the left side signifying your new graduate status. This is a key moment in the ceremony, usually directed by the officiant, and it's a visual declaration of achievement for undergraduates. Master's and doctoral graduates typically start with their tassel on the left, as they already hold a higher degree. 

What are you supposed to wear under regalia?

Additionally, as part of your graduation day regalia, you'll typically be asked to wear something “nice” underneath your cap and gown that's presentable. This could include a dress, a suit, a skirt and blouse, dress shoes, heels, elegant sandals, etc.

What to wear under a graduation gown in the UK?

We recommend you wear clothing under your gown that's suitable for a formal occasion. This might be a suit, smart trousers and a shirt, a blouse and skirt, a smart dress or national dress. We recommend your shoes are smart yet comfortable as you may be on your feet for some time.

How to Properly Wear a Graduation Hood

What is the dress code for academic regalia?

Bachelor's regalia typically includes a gown, cap, and tassel. Master's regalia includes a master's gown with a master's hood, while doctoral degree regalia includes a distinctive doctoral gown, doctoral hood, and often a tam or mortarboard.

What are the rules for graduation tassels?

Graduation tassel rules involve placement based on degree level: undergraduates start with the tassel on the right and move it to the left after graduation, symbolizing the transition; while Master's and Doctoral candidates wear it on the left throughout the ceremony, indicating their advanced status. The tassel attaches to the cap's button, hanging down, and the color often signifies the field of study, but always follow your specific institution's instructions. 

What is the tradition of graduation cap?

Over time, the attire naturally became associated with academia. By the 14th century, universities like Oxford and Cambridge mandated that graduates wear caps and gowns as a symbol of unification. Today's graduation cap is also known as a mortarboard, because it resembles a tool for holding and applying mortar.

Do graduate students wear tassels on the left or right side?

For those earning master's or doctoral degrees, the tassel starts on the left side and remains there throughout the ceremony. This position reflects their prior academic achievements and the advanced nature of their degree​.

What is this 🎓 called?

That symbol (🎓) is called a Graduation Cap, also known as a Mortarboard, which is a flat, square academic cap with a tassel worn during graduation ceremonies to signify academic achievement and the completion of a degree. It's a common emoji used to represent education, graduation, and learning. 

What is the average cash gift for high school graduation?

The average cash gift for a high school graduate generally falls between $20 and $100, with closer relatives often giving $50 to $200, while acquaintances might give $10 to $30, depending on your relationship, budget, and local norms. A good, solid gift is often considered around $50-$100, especially if you're attending a party, with closer family like grandparents potentially giving more. 

What do 4 bars on a robe mean?

Those in the procession wearing regalia that is not black are likely to be faculty wearing the colors of the school from where they received their highest degree. Four bars on the sleeve indicate the wearer is a sitting president.

What do the 4 stripes on a graduation gown mean?

The unique feature of a Presidential gown is the addition of the fourth chevron to each sleeve. This honor is granted only to one who holds the rank of President or Chancellor of an academic institution.

What is a graduation hat called in the UK?

In the UK and the US, it is commonly referred to informally in conjunction with an academic gown as a "cap and gown". It is also sometimes termed a square, trencher, or corner-cap. The adjective academical is also used.

Why do you move the tassel to the left?

Symbolism of Turning the Tassel

Transition and Transformation: Moving the tassel from the right side of the cap to the left signifies a rite of passage, marking the transition from one phase of life to another. For high school graduates, it represents moving on to higher education or the workforce.

Why did I get two tassels for graduation?

Some schools may allow or even encourage the wearing of two tassels to represent honors or special achievements.

Do family members dress up for graduation?

Yes, families typically dress up for graduations, usually opting for business casual to semi-formal attire like dresses, dress pants, blouses, or suits, aiming for a festive, respectful, and picture-ready look that celebrates the milestone without overshadowing the graduate. The level of formality varies with personal style and the event's location (indoor/outdoor, hot/cold), but dressing nicer than everyday wear is common to honor the achievement.
 

How much money should I give my daughter for college graduation?

Parents and grandparents tend to give most generously to graduates, with average cash gifts for college graduations ranging from $100 to $500. Other close relatives usually give between $50 and $250.

What to wear with graduation regalia?

So, for men, you should wear a collared dress shirt. Adding a tie would be a nice touch, but it's not required. For women, because of the low-cut neckline, a scoop-neck top with a modest cut, or a collard blouse is suitable attire to wear under your graduation robes.