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. Hancock graduates wear a basic black (shiny) graduation gown and cap with tassel.

The Allan Hancock College bookstore offers grad regalia for purchase beginning March 25, 2024 up through the day of commencement.

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.

It is highly recommended to wear comfortable shoes. Graduates will walk from Grad Central to the football field and on grass. High heels and stiletto heels are strongly discouraged.

How do I wear the tassel? 
Tassels are worn over the right temple. In unison, all graduates will move the tassel from the right side to the left as directed by your student trustee at the end of the graduation ceremony once all graduates have crossed the stage.