Caps and Gowns

IMPORTANT NOTE: All (undergraduate and graduate) degree candidates are required to purchase regalia (cap and gown) available only through the Cal U University Bookstore. New commencement regalia was introduced in May 2011. In order maintain the integrity of this formal academic ceremony, all students must be attired in our new, approved regalia. All students should plan to purchase the appropriate regalia unit by mid-April as sizes become limited and special orders may not be available.

Each participant in Commencement must be attired in an academic robe and matching cap. An exception is made for students who chose to wear their military uniforms.

Undergraduate and graduate students must wear approved academic attire, which must be purchased at the University Bookstore.

The robe should be pressed. It is inappropriate to attach flowers, signs or messages on the gown or cap. The cap should be worn flat on the top of the head, with the top of the cap parallel to the floor. For undergraduate students, the tassel should hang on the right side of the cap at the start of the program. Graduate students should have the tassel hang on the left side of the cap.

Honors/Honor Cords

Review the undergraduate Honors at Graduation policy. If you are eligible for this distinction, honor cords can be obtained at the University Bookstore at no charge.

After reading about graduation requirements, students who have questions regarding honors eligibility can contact Jodie Rooney, academic events coordinator, at rooney@calu.edu.

Cal U Bookstore representatives will be available at the Graduate School (Steele Hall) and Undergraduate (Convocation Center) rehearsals on May 16, 2013 from 7:00 pm until the rehearsals end to distribute honors cords. Additionally, the Cal U Bookstore will be open in the Natali Student Center on Friday, May 17 from 8:00 am to 7:00 pm and from 8:00 am to 1:00 pm on Saturday, May 18. Bookstore representatives will be available at both ceremonies.

Bookstore Prices and Deadlines

All graduation accessories will be available at the California University Bookstore.

It is strongly recommended that students arrange for purchase of commencement regalia at least one month prior to graduation, as sizes become limited and it will be too late to place special orders. 

Cal U for Life is more than just a program, it is a promise. The Cal U for Life medallion on your tassel represents the University’s promise to continue to earn a life-long relationship with you even after graduation.

Graduation Fair

Stop by the University Bookstore for our Graduation Fair on Monday, April 8, 2013. Join representatives from various campus departments along with representatives from Herff Jones, Balfour, Grad Images, and Framing Success. Herff Jones will be available to discuss personalized graduation announcements available through the Bookstore.

Faculty Regalia

Faculty items will be available for rental and/or purchase for all faculty members. Prices vary based on items ordered.

NOTE: The deadline for faculty regalia purchases is Monday, March 11, 2013. Rentals are due no later than Friday, April 19, 2013.

It is highly recommended that all graduating students purchase caps and gowns one month prior to the commencement ceremonies. After this date, sizes are limited and it is too late to place special orders.

More

Graduation Fair!

Visit the University Bookstore on Monday, April 8, 2013 for our Graduation Fair to meet campus and vendor representatives and order your graduation supplies.

Academic Costumes

Read about colors and other symbolism found in academic costumes for faculty and students.