Graduation Caps: History, Types, Styling & More | GraduationSource (2024)

FAQs

What is the history of graduation caps? ›

Mortarboard caps are thought to have been created in the 15th century, as part of an evolution from a hat type known as a birettas which was used by Catholic clerics and professors. The distinctive square shape of a mortarboard is believed to signify a book, chosen in recognition of scholarly achievements.

Students earning bachelor's and master's degrees wear the typical mortarboard and tassel. Those earning doctoral degrees replace the flat cap with a tam. A tam is typically made of black velvet and has a soft top rather than a rigid board. They can have four, six or eight sides and typically have a similar tassel.

Wear your mortarboard like the academic pro you are. Place the cap on your head so the point is in the front, about 1 inch above the eyebrows. Your mortarboard should be worn level on your head, and the tassel should be placed on the right side.

In addition to being a fun way to express yourself, decorating graduation caps is also a way to promote individuality and diversity. Each cap tells a unique story and represents a different experience. It's a way to celebrate our differences and acknowledge that we all have something unique to offer.

A Symbol of Knowledge

The graduation cap and gown stand as a collective symbol of knowledge, perseverance, and dedication to education. They embody the sweat, late nights, and sacrifices that go into attaining an academic degree.

Origins. The mortarboard may have developed from the biretta, a similar-looking hat worn by Roman Catholic clergy. The biretta itself may have been a development of the Roman pileus quadratus, a type of skullcap with superposed square and tump (meaning small mound).

The graduate hat (also known as an academic cap, graduate cap, mortarboard, or trencher) is part of the formal academic attire to be worn by graduating students (graduands) during the graduation ceremony.

However, this opportunity is often not extended to high school seniors, as most high schools do not allow cap decorations at graduation ceremonies.

Graduation Hats & Accessories Size Guide

Our Mortardboard Hats are available in five different sizes. Sizes are based on measurements taken of the circumference of the head 1.5" above eye-brows.

First, it is a tradition that has been passed down for generations. Second, caps are seen as a symbol of intelligence and success, and female graduates have worked hard to earn their degrees. Finally, caps can be seen as a sign of respect for one's elders and for the institution of education.

What is the history of graduation hats? ›

However, the academic cap actually originates from a different style of cap called a 'biretta'. The biretta was a tall round cap, first used by Roman Catholic clergy in Italy in the middle ages. The shape then evolved to have a seam up four sides, creating a square shape with corners.

First and foremost, make sure you're allowed to decorate your cap. Most local schools allow you to but every school has its own policy. We also recommend gathering your friends so you can all do it together. It's a fun pre-graduation activity and a neat way to spend time together!

College Bachelor Degree

For an undergraduate degree, the tassel placement rules are the same as a high school commencement. Tassels are worn on the right side of the cap before the ceremony and are then moved from the right side to the left after receiving a diploma or when directed to do so by the graduation speaker.

Tossing the graduation cap: a naval custom

This custom began at the U.S. Naval Academy in 1912, when newly commissioned ensigns threw their midshipmen's caps into the air to celebrate their graduation. The tradition quickly spread to other institutions.

The tassel before graduation symbolizes your time as a student. When you move it to the other side, you are confirming your newfound graduate status. Today, this simple but beautiful tradition is performed at commencements across the country.

First, it is a tradition that has been passed down for generations. Second, caps are seen as a symbol of intelligence and success, and female graduates have worked hard to earn their degrees. Finally, caps can be seen as a sign of respect for one's elders and for the institution of education.

Tossing the graduation cap in the air was started by the U.S. Naval Academy in 1912. The graduates would spend two years as midshipmen and had to always wear a designated hat. Once the graduation ended, the midshipman would become officers and would no longer need their old hats.