Cap and Gown Etiquette

What do I need to know about caps, gowns, tassels, and graduation announcements?
Students are responsible for obtaining their own caps and gowns. Caps and gowns are required for commencement participation. They will be on sale beginning March 15, 2023 up through the day of commencement at the Allan Hancock College bookstore. 

How should my cap be worn? 
The cap should be worn so that the Mortarboard is level. It should not be tilted to the back or side of the head. The crown should be approximately one inch above the eyebrow. 

How do I tell the front from the back of the cap? 
The front of the cap is indicated on the inside of the crown.

Should the cap be removed anytime during the graduation ceremony? 
Only men should remove their caps during the playing of the National Anthem.  

How do I take care of my gown? 
The gown should be removed immediately from the package and placed on a hanger.

The gown seemed wrinkled when I took it out of the package, should I send it to the cleaners? 
The gown should not be washed or dry-cleaned. It may be pressed with a cool iron or steamed.

What should I wear underneath the gown? 
You should wear lightweight, comfortable clothing.

How do I wear the tassel? 
Tassels are worn over the left or right temple depending on the school's tradition. All graduates should wear the tassel on the same side for uniformity. Some schools switch the tassel from one side to the other in unison - after all diplomas have been received. 

Faculty that need to order graduation regalia: please submit the order form to l.bean@follett.com.