What is a mortar board for graduation?

The square academic cap, graduate cap, cap, mortarboard (because of its similarity in appearance to the mortarboard used by brickmasons to hold mortar) or Oxford cap is an item of academic dress consisting of a horizontal square board fixed upon a skull-cap, with a tassel attached to the centre.

Why do you wear a mortarboard at graduation?

The mortarboard, better known as the “graduation cap” or “Oxford cap” has been a part of traditional academic attire since the 1800s, though some believe it dates back as early as the 1300s in Europe when university professors, often members of the clergy, would wear long gowns and caps to stay warm while teaching in ...

Why is a graduation cap called a mortar board?

The term for the modern cap, mortarboard, stems from its resemblance to a mason's square board for carrying mortar. One of the earliest recorded references appeared in the 1853 novel “The Adventures of Mr. Verdant Green, an Oxford Freshman.”

What is a mortar board used for?

a board, usually square, used by masons to hold mortar. Also called cap. a cap with a close-fitting crown surmounted by a stiff, flat, square piece from which a tassel hangs, worn as part of academic costume.

What do Americans call a mortar board?

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.

Pomp and circumstance: a History of the Mortarboard

How prestigious is mortar board?

Mortar Board is a highly selective honor society for senior students. It recognizes college seniors for distinguished ability and achievement in scholarship, leadership, and service.

Why do only female graduates wear caps?

There are a few reasons why only female graduates wear caps. 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.

What do you wear under a graduation gown?

Women are best wearing either dress pants or a shorter skirt underneath the gown, while men should choose khakis or dark-colored dress pants. Avoid brightly coloured bottoms if you choose to wear dress pants or a longer skirt, as they can be seen below the hem of the gown and stick to darker colours.

What is it called when you move your tassel at graduation?

There is a graduation tradition called the turning of the tassel. As tradition goes, there comes a time during the ceremony when the graduates are asked to flip their tassel from one side of their cap to another and this signifies the earning of a degree.

What is the doctoral graduation hat called?

The Doctoral Tam: The academic tam is a hat worn with the gown and hood. It is usually made of black velvet and features a tassel in a specific color that represents the degree being conferred. For example, a blue tassel signifies a PhD degree, while a gold tassel signifies an EdD degree.

Where does the tassel go on a mortarboard?

Position tassel to the appropriate side

Prior to your ceremony, arrange the tassel so it drapes over the right side of your mortarboard (the side closest to your face) while you're wearing it.

What is the thing that hangs around your neck at graduation?

A graduation stole, also known as academic stoles or honor stoles, is a sash that denotes academic achievement, extracurricular success, or membership in a specific organization. Graduation stoles and sashes are adorned with the colors and insignia of the organization that awarded them.

What does the mortarboard symbolize?

The origins of the mortarboard can be traced back to the medieval era. Scholars in the 14th and 15th centuries wore similar headgear, which gradually evolved into the iconic cap we recognize today. Its adoption by universities and educational institutions further solidified its status as a symbol of learning.

Do you keep your graduation hat?

We always recommend that after certain graduation traditions, such as the throwing of your graduation cap, you retrieve your graduation cap for keepsake. We also always recommend removing your graduation tassel before throwing your cap, so at the very least, you will have a tassel as a keepsake.

Who can wear mortarboard?

The academic cap or square, commonly known as the mortarboard, has come to be symbolic of academia. In some universities it can be worn by graduates and undergraduates alike.

Why do I have 2 graduation tassels?

A second tassel is usually associated with membership to an honors society or extra-curricular activity. So if you were in either of these activities during school, be sure to ask around to see if there is a special tassel being designed and distributed to the members of said group and get your second tassel ready!

What to do with graduation cords after graduation?

If you want to showcase your cords, you can create a shadow box or a graduation memorabilia display. Frame your cords, diploma, graduation photo, or other graduation-related items to create a personalized keepsake that you can proudly hang on a wall. This way, you could find a way to perpetuate your accomplishment.

What does it mean when the tassel is moved from right to left?

Traditionally tassels are worn on the right side and moved to the left during a special portion of the ceremony for high school graduates. For college graduates, Bachelor again wear tassels on right side until their degrees are conferred, then move to left. Graduate students wear on left from the beginning.

Is it OK to wear a black dress for graduation?

It's important to feel comfortable and confident in what you wear, so if black is your preferred color and you feel good in the outfit, it's absolutely fine to wear it to your graduation. Yes.

What color should a woman wear to graduation?

Opt for classic colors like black, navy, or soft pastels. Choose a dress style that flatters your body shape and makes you feel confident. Opt for a knee-length or midi dress that is appropriate for the occasion. Avoid anything too revealing or too casual.

Is it OK not to wear a dress at graduation?

Although there is no dress code, many guests like to dress up for this special day. Parents and alumni can often be seen donning Tech colors and gear, and sometimes international guests wear their country's traditional dress clothes.

What happens if you don t have a cap and gown for graduation?

If cost is an issue, there may be help available or you may be able to borrow one from someone who graduated last semester or year, but most schools and colleges will fefuse to seat you if you do not have a cap and gown on. You can pick up your diploma later, likely the next business day, or have it mailed.

Do you tie over or under graduation gown?

Ties inside the gown may make the gown more comfortable if tied at the back under the gown. The neck band fits neatly under a tie or it can be pinned onto the gown as shown. The hood is worn flat against the back, folded diagonally and falls to the left as shown in the photograph.

What does a mortar board look like?

The square academic cap, graduate cap, cap, mortarboard (because of its similarity in appearance to the mortarboard used by brickmasons to hold mortar) or Oxford cap is an item of academic dress consisting of a horizontal square board fixed upon a skull-cap, with a tassel attached to the centre.