Dress Code for Academic Regalia at Graduation Ceremonies

15/04/2025
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I. Mortarboard (Graduation Cap) Standards

  1. Proper Wear

    • Position horizontally on the head with the front edge aligned with eyebrows

    • Keep the square board level (avoid tilting forward/backward)

    • Exception: Doctoral Tudor bonnets may tilt slightly backward

  2. Tassel Protocol

    • Initial position: Bachelor's/Master's tassel hangs on the wearer's right

    • Turning ritual: Move to left after degree conferral (symbolizing knowledge transfer)

    • Doctoral exception: Some institutions keep doctoral tassels permanently left

II. Gown Requirements

  1. Essentials

    • Wear formal attire underneath (white shirt + dark bottoms recommended)

    • Gown length should cover regular clothing, hem reaching below knees

  2. Disciplinary Markings

    • Sleeve styles:

      • Bachelor: Bell-shaped sleeves

      • Master: Oblong hanging sleeves

      • Doctor: Flared sleeves with velvet trim

    • Color coding: Velvet trim indicates discipline (e.g., gold=science, white=arts)

III. Hood Specifications

  1. Draping Method

    • Center back of hood aligns with nape

    • Display velvet trim outward

  2. Degree Tier Distinctions

    • Bachelor hood: ~24 inches (61 cm)

    • Master hood: ~42 inches (107 cm)

    • Doctoral hood: ~48 inches (122 cm)

IV. International Variations

  • USA: Tassel colors may represent institutions (e.g., Harvard crimson)

  • UK: Oxford doctors wear white bow ties

  • Japan: Some universities permit hakama trousers with gowns for women

V. Prohibited Practices

❌ Excessive cap decorations (e.g., rhinestones/graffiti)
❌ Wearing hoods as scarves
❌ Premature tassel turning

Quick Checklist
✓ Level cap ✓ Tassel orientation ✓ Smooth hood draping ✓ Concealed innerwear

(Note: Always consult your institution’s specific guidelines. Art schools may allow creative adaptations.)

Key features of this translation:

  1. Uses standardized terms like "mortarboard" instead of "square cap"

  2. Maintains parallel structure for easy scanning

  3. Includes metric/imperial conversions for global readability

  4. Preserves symbolic meanings (e.g., tassel turning ritual)

  5. Notes exceptions for different academic cultures

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