4 Types of High School Graduation Hats You Should Know

In a student's life, graduation brings one of the most important transitions. It is the time when students get the opportunity to pat themselves on the back and be proud after dealing with all the challenges, stresses and demands. After all, studying for a qualification is no easy deal.

Among many traditions in a graduation ceremony, the iconic square academic cap, known as mortarboard stands out as essential symbols that add meaning and unity to the celebration.

Simply by wearing it, students become a part of a long-standing tradition celebrated for generations. And tossing the cap into the air extends far beyond a mere celebratory act. It represents a powerful representation of the dedication and perseverance exhibited throughout years of academic endeavour.

It is a thrilling expression of freedom and celebration that every student love to experience.

Graduation hat- why does it hold such importance for a graduate?

Graduation cap is much more than just an eccentric outfit. Wearing the hat and moving the tassel from one side to another represent the transition from student to graduates. Students often keep this as a memento as it turns into a cherished reminder of their achievements and the memories of that significant day.

If we trace back to the history of the style of the graduation cap, we will find that it took hundreds of years to develop the design. Oxford and Cambridge were one among the first traditional universities to adopt graduation grab. Initially, the graduation caps were a take on Catholic birettas that had three peaks and a large tuft in the centre.

Later, the modern graduation cap was introduced in the 16th and 17th centuries. Gradually, by the end of that decade, it has been adopted by universities. Over time, the design turned into the flat, square-topped cap that we see today. Eventually, the graduation hat remains a timeless representation of academic honour and tradition.

Today, from the classic mortarboard to sustainable alternatives, graduates get more option than ever when it comes to the styles of graduation hats. Let's explore the many styles.

1. The traditional graduation hat with tassel

This one is commonly known as the mortarboard. It is the most recognisable and widely used graduation cap. It commonly features a flat, square top and is paired with a tassel that hangs from the centre. The square tap is made from stiff materials, whereas the skullcap portion is made of a flexible material.

The tassel is the most important component of the traditional graduation cap that is attached at the centre of the mortarboard. It is places on the right side of the cap when the ceremony begins and moved to the left side in unison.

Though the traditional mortarboard is typically black, some variations also exist that represent different academic disciplines, honours or school colours. Suppose a student's graduation from the EEE department may have tassels in silver while students from the Economics department might wear tassels in red.

2. Tam cap

The tam cap is a prestigious variation of the traditional graduation cap. It is mostly worn by graduates at the master's and doctoral levels. It is made of high-quality materials like velvet or plush fabric and designed with multiple sides, ranking from four to eight panels. The multi-sided design adds an elegant and professional touch as the crown of the tam is gathered and slightly puffed.

Overall, the cap is secured by an adjustable band or fitted size. The rounded design was initially inspired by the biretta that was worn by scholars and clergy during educational ceremonies. This cap is also seen mostly in black. However, some institutions introduce colour variations to represent specific academic disciplines.

3. Customised printed graduation cap

The customised printed graduation cap has become a popular choice among students as it brings the chance to infuse personal meaning into the formal and traditional atmosphere of graduation ceremonies. It allows students to celebrate their unique journeys and identities in a more visible way.

Students use the flat, square surface of the mortarboard as a perfect canvas for creative designs, be it by writing personal quotes, using bright colours or adding intricate patterns.

For example, commonly students decorate their caps with messages like Thanks, Mom and Dad or The Adventure Begins. Many graduates choose to decorate their cap with elements that reflect their school's colours, mascots or mottos or some references to school traditions.

Some customise their caps with designs that show their career goals while some prefer to honour their cultural background or personal identity.

4. Eco-friendly graduation mortarboard hat

Made from sustainable, recycled and biodegradable materials, eco-friendly mortarboard hats have become a modern innovation. Since today, concerns about environmental impact have been on the rise, and students and educational institutions are seeking alternatives to the traditional graduation cap.

Recycled paper, organic cotton, and plant-based fibres like bamboo are some of the materials that are often used to make eco-friendly mortarboard hats. Since traditional graduation caps are often made from materials like polyester, the eco-friendly alternatives help combat the issue.

Though initially it has been seen as a niche product, they are becoming more widely affordable and available.

Final words

Overall, regardless of the types of graduation hats, whether the traditional mortarboard, the distinguished tam or a personalised, eco-friendly cap each and every one mark the end of a chapter and the beginning of another. It is a part of a unifying tradition that allow graduates to honour their past while looking toward the future.