Protocols and Attire

Out of respect and courtesy to the University and graduates, we ask that candidates and faculty do not alter their stoles and gowns. Students are encouraged to decorate their caps! Please refrain from the use of any offensive or obscene pictures, words, or references. If students violate any of these prohibited items, they may be asked to remove or alter these items.

• Business casual attire should be worn under the gown.
• Please wear comfortable shoes that can be worn long distances, on concrete and/or unstable flooring.
• You are allowed to wear cords/stoles by an approved student organization/department with your standard regalia attire.

Bachelor Package

The Bachelor's package includes the black one-size-fits-all cap, black gown with red striping and the university logo, and a black tassel.

Master Package

The Master's package includes your black one-size-fits-all cap, black gown with red striping and the university logo, degree specific tassel, and hood. Please be aware that the gown in the bachelor's package is different than the gown in the master's package. The color of the hood depends on the degree you will be receiving

Regalia is available for purchase in person year-round at the A&M-Victoria Campus Store.

Spirit Cords

Spirit cords are long, thin, colored ropes with tassels on each end that are worn around the neck during commencement ceremonies. These cords recognize graduates with academic honors or who have participated in certain groups or clubs, in colors determined by each school or club.

Click on the images below to order or find out more information about a specific cord!

There will be no rehearsal. Faculty will guide the graduates through the ceremony. Staff in red vests will be around to assist you with any questions you have. 

1. Students and their guests may arrive 1 hour before your scheduled ceremony.
   • Come dressed in your regalia!
   • There will not be a hooding ceremony for masters graduates during Commencement. 
2. Visit the Student check-in tables.
   • Get your name card.
   • Pick up any spirit cords you ordered.
3. Find your place in line and follow faculty/staff instructions.
   • Graduates will be lined up by degree level, alphabetically by last name (bachelor’s, master’s).
   • Graduates will proceed single file for the procession onto the venue floor and to seating in two sections. 
4. From your seat to the stage.
   • You will be called to the stage by degree level, in a single line.
   • At the stage hand your name card to the announcer. 
   • Walk the stage to accept your diploma cover and shake the hand of the University President.
   • Your photo will be taken at the handshake and again just off the side of the stage. 
5. Return to your seat.
   • We ask that everyone to remain until the end of the ceremony for the celebratory tassel change and acknowledgment of being graduated.
   • For recessional, you continue to follow the faculty's instructions to exit the venue floor.