Regalia - Graduation Caps & Gowns
Where do I get a cap & gown?
Graduands are to pick up gowns, caps and hoods in the Studio Theatre of Hamilton Place before the Convocation Ceremony. For complete Convocation details please contact the Office of the Registrar.
Candidates for bachelor degrees, diploma and certificate programs wear academic gowns only; candidates for graduate degrees wear academic gowns and caps
How much does it cost?
The Bookstore loans academic gowns, caps to graduands for the Convocation ceremony for no additional fee. Gowns and caps must be promptly returned following the completion of the ceremony, when diplomas are picked up. Gowns and caps can be rented for photographs.
Can I rent an academic gown or cap for photographs?
Yes. Academic cap & gown for individual rentals can be arranged by email bookstr@mcmaster.ca or by calling the Bookstore (905) 525-9140 ext. 22623.
We require 2 business days to arrange cap & gown pick-up. We are unable to provide cap & gown for individual rentals during the months of June and November as cap & gown inventory is reserved for all graduation ceremonies during these times.
Please note: We are unable to rent caps to candidates for bachelor degrees, diploma and certificate programs as they wear academic gowns only.
Regalia Rental Pricing
| Item | Rental Fee |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate or Masters Gown | $10 per 72 hr ($140 deposit)* |
| Undergraduate or Masters Hood | $7 per 72 hr ($100 deposit)* |
| Masters Mortarboard | $7 per 72 hr ($30 deposit)* |
To rent a cap or gown download and fill out a regalia rental form and return to the the Bookstore in person, via email or fax (905) 572-7160
*Deposit refundable with return of cap/gown. Postage for out-of-town reservations will be applied.
Can I purchase my own cap & gown?
Yes. Please contact the Bookstore by email bookstr@mcmaster.ca or telephone Cheryl Sinclair at (905) 525-9140 ext. 22629. Academic regalia is made to order. Allow 6-8 weeks for delivery.
Regalia Purchase Pricing
| Item | Purchase Price |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate or Masters Gown | $140 |
| Undergraduate or Masters Hood | $100 |
| Masters Mortarboard | $90 |
| PhD Gown | $550 |
| PhD Hood | $120 |
| PhD Mortarboard | $105 |
How do I know what size gown I will need?
- Small (up to 5'3)
- Medium (5' 3" to 5'6")
- Large (5'7 to 5'10)
- X-Large (5'11 and up)
Measuring for a custom cap and gown

Height - Record the total height from the top of the head to the floor, while wearing shoes. (A to B)
Chest: Be sure that the tape is well under the arms and over the shoulder blades before measuring completely around the chest. (H)
Sleeve Length: Give the usual shirt sleeve length or measure from point C, at the nape of the neck to point E just above the wrist bone, while the arm is straight against the individual’s side.
For Cap Measurements, pull the Measurement tape snug, but not tight. The figure where the tape meets is the cap size to order.






A Litter Bird Told Me
