The models brandishing graduation gowns for the mortarboard sizing blog post

How to Measure for Your Graduation Cap (Mortarboard Size Guide)

Most graduation caps, or mortarboards, feature an elastic band designed to fit a range of head shapes. However, many premium or tailored academic regalia options require an exact measurement to ensure the cap sits securely on your head without slipping forward or pinching your forehead during the ceremony.

Getting an accurate measurement takes less than two minutes. Here is exactly how to find your mortarboard size using standard measurements.

Step-by-Step Head Measurement Guide

To find your correct cap size, you need to measure the circumference of your head where the hat will naturally sit.

Step 1: Gather Your Tools

You will need a flexible cloth measuring tape (like a tailor’s tape). If you do not have one, you can use a piece of non-stretchy string or a long strip of paper, along with a standard ruler or hardware tape measure.

Step 2: Position the Tape Correctly

Wrap the measuring tape around your head. It should sit approximately 3 cm above your ears. This mimics the exact position where the sweatband of the mortarboard will rest. Ensure the tape runs straight across the widest part of the back of your head.

Step 3: Measure Comfortably

Pull the tape snug against your skin, but do not pull it tightly. It should feel exactly like you want the cap to feel on graduation day. If you are using a string, pinch the intersection point firmly, lay the string flat against your ruler, and note the length.

Step 4: Record the Measurement Twice

Take the measurement in both inches and centimeters. Most global manufacturers use centimeters for precision, while US sizing often relies on inches or standard hat sizes. Measure a second time to ensure consistency.

Standard Mortarboard Size Chart

Once you have your measurement, compare it to this standard sizing table to find your fit:

A person wearing a graduation cap with a measuring tape and a Mortarboard Size Chart on the side to help customizers determine their size before ordering for a mortarboard

Crucial Styling Factors to Consider

Your head measurement is only the baseline. Account for how you plan to style your hair on graduation day:

  • Volume and Thickness: If you have naturally thick hair, braids, extensions, or plan on wearing a voluminous blowout, your head circumference will effectively increase. Add an extra 1 to 2 centimeters to your measurement, or choose a cap with an adjustable elastic back.
  • Updos vs. Down Styles: High ponytails, top knots, or high buns are incompatible with mortarboards. Plan to wear your hair down, in a low ponytail, or in low braids so the cap can sit flat on your crown.
  • Between Sizes? If your measurement falls directly between two sizes, always opt for the larger size. A cap that is slightly loose can easily be anchored with bobby pins, but a cap that is too small will sit too high, look awkward, and cause headaches.

Ready to shop? Check out our Mortarboard Collection here.

Sizing gowns too? Check our full sizing guide for both mortarboard and gowns here.

Visit our main website for more info.

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