Cap & Gown

Deadline to buy commencement regalia online: March 30

Approved Commencement Dress

• black robe
• black mortarboard
• colored tassel
• hood  and tam or mortarboard - for graduate students
• honors cords and/or stoles

Distinction and Honors Cords

Idaho State University recognizes outstanding student scholarship in baccalaureate and associate degree graduates by granting the following distinctions:

• Summa Cum Laude (gold honor cord): to those having an Idaho State University GPA of 3.950-4.00
• Magna Cum Laude (silver honor cord): to those having an Idaho State University GPA of 3.750-3.949
• Cum Laude (white honor cord): to those having an Idaho State University GPA of 3.500-3.749

Acknowledgement of academic achievement at commencement will be based on the student’s cumulative ISU GPA at the conclusion of the term prior to the ceremony. Distinction recorded on the diploma and final official transcript, however, will be based on all semesters completed.

Where to get them

University Honors Distinction cords (Cum Laude, Magna Cum Laude and Summa Cum Laude) are available through the Registrar’s Office.  

Stoles and Cords

Distinction and Honors Cords

Idaho State University recognizes outstanding student scholarship in baccalaureate and associate degree graduates by granting the following distinctions:

• Summa Cum Laude (gold honor cord): to those having an Idaho State University GPA of 3.950-4.00
• Magna Cum Laude (silver honor cord): to those having an Idaho State University GPA of 3.750-3.949
• Cum Laude (white honor cord): to those having an Idaho State University GPA of 3.500-3.749

Acknowledgement of academic achievement at commencement will be based on the student’s cumulative ISU GPA at the conclusion of the term prior to the ceremony. Distinction recorded on the diploma and final official transcript, however, will be based on all semesters completed.

Where to Get Your Honor Cords: University Honors Distinction cords (Cum Laude, Magna Cum Laude and Summa Cum Laude) are available through the Registrar’s Office.  

Stole of Gratitude

Every graduate has special people in their life who have provided invaluable emotion, moral, or financial support. The Stole of Gratitude is a lasting and fitting way for graduates to pay special tribute to those who have shaped their lives. The new graduate presents the stole as a gesture of appreciation prior to or following the ceremony, or during other commemorative gatherings. More than one stole may be given if there are multiple people that the graduate would like to thank.

The stole of gratitude is optional.

Where to Get Your Stole of Gratitude: Stoles of gratitude can be purchased at the University Bookstore along with your regalia.

Philanthropy Cords

ISU Graduates who donate $20 to the Alumni Association Scholarship Endowment will be recognized for their philanthropic contribution by receiving a Bengal branded philanthropy cord to proudly wear during Commencement. The Alumni Association Scholarship Endowment is awarded to an undergraduate student in any major that is a child, step-child or grandchild of an ISU graduate.

Where to get your philanthropy cords: Cords are available at Magnuson Alumni House located at 554 S 7th Ave., Pocatello. If you are unable to pick up your cord, please contact Brei'Ann Labbee at 208-282-3755 or breiannlabbee@isu.edu. 

Veteran Stole

The Student Veterans of America - ISU Chapter and the Veteran Student Services Center are proud to offer veteran graduation stoles for purchase. The custom embroidered stoles are available to graduating students who have served in the US military or ISU-ROTC program. Branch-specific stoles can be ordered at the Veteran Student Services Center on the 3rd floor of Pond Student Union building. All proceeds will be used to support the programs and activities of the Student Veterans of America - ISU Chapter.

Where To Get Your Veteran Stole: Contact the military education benefits coordinator in the Office of the Registrar.

Student-Athlete Graduation Stoles 

At the time of graduation, all student-athletes will receive a special stole to wear at Commencement. These will be dispersed by Athletics Administration staff. Only those graduating with undergraduate degrees (Bachelor's level) and those participating in Commencement ceremonies will receive a stole. 

Where to Get Your Student Athlete Stole: Student-athletes are encouraged to communicate with Melissa Dixon in Holt Arena Administration Offices to ensure they receive a stole.  

TRIO Stoles

Students who are participants in TRIO's Collegiate Programs, TRIO Student Support Services and/or TRIO McNair Scholars, are able to receive a stole when they are graduating. Each program has an application process that students must apply and be accepted to be in the program. 

FAQ

Cap & Gown

Can I wear a borrowed cap and gown?

You are welcome to borrow regalia, but please make sure you wear the appropriate robe for your degree level (undergraduate, master’s and doctoral). All robes should be black

On what side do I wear my tassel?

• Undergraduates wear their tassels on the right side prior to Commencement.
• Graduate students wear the tassel on the left.

I’m a graduate student and I have a hood but I have no idea how to wear it. What should I do?

Begin by checking out the ISU Hooding Instructional Video created by the Graduate School. TL;DR? Here are a couple key points about preparing your hood for your hooding:
Make sure the button on the back of your hood is undone.
Place your hood on your left arm as you approach the stage.

Can I wear a stole or other items recognizing my achievements?

Many stoles and cords are available through various ISU programs. Similarly, Jostens offers the opportunity to create a custom graduation stole. We encourage you to wear these stoles and cords so we can applaud your accomplishments!

Can I decorate my cap and wear a handmade stole?

Some students like to honor their heritage by wearing handmade stoles and decorated caps. When considering ornamentation, we ask that you honor the achievements being celebrated and respect the dignity of the occasion. We look forward to seeing your tasteful creativity!