How to Wear a Graduation Cap Properly for Commencement and Photos
A graduation high school cap is one of the most recognizable parts of commencement attire, but many graduates are unsure how it should actually sit on the head. Wearing it correctly helps create a cleaner look, keeps the tassel in the right position, and can make graduation photos look more polished.
Start With the Mortarboard
The traditional square graduation cap is called a mortarboard. Place it on your head so the flat board sits level rather than leaning sharply backward or forward.
Position the Front Correctly
The front edge should sit comfortably above your forehead without covering your eyes. Avoid pushing the cap too far back, which can make it unstable.
How Tight Should a Graduation Cap Be?
Your cap should feel secure enough to stay in place while walking, but it should not feel painfully tight. If your cap comes in multiple sizes, follow the sizing guidance provided with the product.
Try It On Before Graduation Day
Test your cap several days before the ceremony. Walk around, turn your head, and check whether it remains balanced.
How to Position the Tassel
The tassel attaches at the center of the mortarboard and hangs over one side of the cap.
At many U.S. ceremonies, graduates begin with the tassel on the right side and move it to the left after the degree or diploma is conferred.
Follow Ceremony Instructions
Traditions differ by institution, so always listen to the directions provided by your school before moving the tassel.
How to Keep Your Cap Secure
If the cap feels loose, there are a few simple ways to improve stability.
- Make sure the mortarboard is centered.
- Avoid tilting it too far back.
- Test the cap with your planned hairstyle.
- Use discreet bobby pins or hair clips when appropriate.
- Recheck the fit before photographs.
Graduation Cap Tips for Hairstyles
Your hairstyle can affect how the mortarboard sits. High-volume styles may make the cap sit higher, while smoother styles may make it easier to keep level.
Practice the Full Look
Try on your high school cap with the exact hairstyle you plan to wear. This gives you time to adjust placement before commencement morning.
How Should the Cap Look in Photos?
For graduation pictures, the mortarboard generally looks best when it appears level, centered, and securely positioned.
Quick Photo Check
- Keep the cap level.
- Make sure the tassel is visible.
- Check that the tassel is not tangled.
- Confirm the graduation-year charm faces outward.
- Straighten the cap before close-up photos.
Can You Decorate a Graduation Cap?
Some schools permit decorated mortarboards, while others restrict or prohibit decorations. Before adding messages, flowers, glitter, photos, or other materials, review your school’s commencement policy.
Do Not Alter the Cap Until You Know the Rules
If decorated caps are not allowed, permanent changes could make the cap unsuitable for the ceremony.
Common Graduation Cap Problems
The Cap Keeps Sliding Back
Move it slightly forward and check whether the headpiece fits securely around your head.
The Tassel Keeps Falling in Your Face
Make sure the tassel is attached securely and positioned according to your ceremony’s required side.
The Cap Looks Crooked
Use a mirror or ask someone to check the mortarboard from the front and side before leaving for the ceremony.
What About Master’s and Doctoral Headwear?
Many master’s graduates wear a traditional mortarboard, while doctoral graduates may wear a doctoral tam or other approved academic headwear.
Always confirm your institution’s degree-specific regalia requirements.
Graduation Cap Preparation Checklist
- Confirm the required cap style
- Check the size and fit
- Keep the mortarboard level
- Attach the tassel securely
- Verify the correct starting side
- Check the year charm if included
- Test your hairstyle
- Review decoration rules
- Practice wearing the cap before commencement
Get Your Graduation Cap Ready Before the Big Day
A properly positioned graduation cap can help complete your ceremony look and make you feel more prepared for commencement. Keep the mortarboard level, make sure the tassel is attached correctly, and test the fit with your planned hairstyle in advance.
Follow your school’s official instructions, prepare your cap before graduation day, and enjoy the moment you worked hard to reach.
