The Essential Guide to Academic Regalia for 2026: Student and Faculty Options

Graduation day marks a major milestone, and the right academic regalia helps celebrate this achievement with tradition and style. Whether you are a student preparing for your big day or a faculty member participating in the ceremony, understanding your regalia options is key. This guide covers everything you need to know about purchasing or renting academic regalia for 2026, including pricing, ordering deadlines, and sustainable choices.

Student Regalia: Purchase Options and Details

Students have several options for purchasing their regalia, which includes caps, gowns, and tassels in the official school colors. Here are the key details:

• Cap, Gown, Tassel with Year: $47.00 plus tax

• Cap and Tassel Only: $22.00 plus tax

• Extra Tassel: $9.00 plus tax

  
  

Where and When to Buy

Student regalia will be available on the shelf at Ben Franklin during the first week of April. It is recommended to shop early to get the best selection of sizes. For students who are off campus, Ben Franklin offers a reservation service by phone at 440-774-5711. Payment is required at the time of reservation, and items can be picked up when students arrive on campus.

Sustainable Gown Option

The gowns offered are the Greenweaver model from Oak Hall, made from 100% recycled drinking bottles. This choice reduces environmental impact and provides a durable, attractive gown that students can keep as a souvenir.

Faculty and Staff Regalia: Rental and Purchase Options

Faculty and staff have different options depending on whether they prefer to rent or purchase their regalia.

Rental Options Covered by the Institution

• Cap, Gown, and Tassel: Paid by the institution

• Hoods:

- Bachelor’s Hood: $40.00 plus tax

- Master’s Hood: $42.00 plus tax

- Doctoral Hood: $46.00 plus tax

The institution covers all fees for Marshalls and Emeritus Faculty.

Ordering and Payment

Rental fees must be paid when placing the order. Orders and payments can be made in person or by phone at 440-774-5711. If no payment is required, orders may be placed by email at benfranklin@oberlin.net. Faculty and staff should place their orders by March 28th to avoid expedited shipping fees. Orders placed after April 18th cannot guarantee delivery without additional charges.

Purchase Options for Faculty

Faculty members interested in purchasing custom hoods can do so with prices ranging from $175 to $225 or more, depending on fabric choice and degree level. For purchases, faculty should contact Krista directly for assistance.

Tips for Ordering and Preparing Your Regalia

• Shop Early: To ensure availability and avoid rush fees, place your order well before the deadlines. Students should shop in early April, and faculty should order by March 28th.

• Reserve if Off Campus: Students not on campus can reserve their regalia by phone to guarantee size and availability.

• Payment Ready: Have payment ready when ordering, especially for rentals, to secure your items.

• Consider Sustainability: Choosing the Greenweaver gown supports environmental responsibility without sacrificing quality.

• Custom Hoods for Faculty: Faculty purchasing hoods should plan ahead and consult with Krista to select the right fabric and style for their degree.