The history of the graduation cap and gown

Graduation caps/ File: Graduations Now

For many people, the graduation cap and gown are worn only once in a lifetime, yet few stop to consider the long history and symbolism behind these academic garments. Today, they represent achievement, completion, and academic success across the world. Academic dress dates back to ancient European universities. In the early days, students and scholars—many of whom were connected to the Church—wore long robes and head coverings as part of daily life. These garments were practical as well as traditional, helping to keep people warm in often cold university buildings. Over time, they evolved from everyday clothing into ceremonial attire used only for special academic occasions.

As universities expanded during the Middle Ages, formal rules began to regulate academic dress. Prestigious institutions such as Oxford and Cambridge established guidelines on when and how different types of gowns should be worn. These rules helped distinguish academic levels, with more advanced degrees such as master’s and doctoral students wearing more elaborate designs.

The iconic square graduation cap also has a fascinating history. In the 16th century, two main styles of academic headwear existed: square and round. Students chose their headwear depending on their field of study. An illustration from 1675 by English artist David Loggan depicting Oxford University academic dress shows both types in use.

The square cap later spread to America in the 17th century, where it became especially popular. In the United States, it is known as the “mortarboard” due to its resemblance to a tool used by bricklayers. In the United Kingdom, it is sometimes called a “trencher.” Over time, it became one of the most recognizable symbols of graduation ceremonies.

The tassel, now an essential part of the cap, was added later. Initially, graduation caps did not include this feature, but students gradually began decorating them. By 1895, official U.S. academic dress codes recognized the tassel as a standard element. Today, many graduation ceremonies include the symbolic gesture of moving the tassel from the right side of the cap to the left, signifying the completion of studies.

That same 1895 standard also confirmed the square cap as the dominant style in the United States. The tradition eventually spread to high schools and other educational institutions, making it a universal symbol of academic achievement.

However, not all graduation caps are the same. At master’s and doctoral levels, students often wear different styles that may be round, soft, or even octagonal in shape. These variations indicate different levels of academic achievement.

Today, the graduation cap and gown are recognized worldwide as powerful symbols of education and accomplishment, worn at ceremonies from preschool to university graduations.