Attire and Regalia

Commencement is a celebration of academic achievement and a shared milestone for graduates, families, and the University community. Graduates are expected to conduct themselves and present themselves in a manner that honors the significance of the occasion and reflects the values of Palm Beach Atlantic University.

Commencement is a formal academic ceremony celebrating the accomplishments of Palm Beach Atlantic University graduates. All graduates are expected to wear approved commencement regalia and attire that reflects the dignity of the occasion and is consistent with University community standards and expectations outlined in the Navigator.

Graduates must wear the official Palm Beach Atlantic University cap, gown, hood (if applicable), and any authorized honors regalia. Official regalia may not be substituted with alternative apparel or headwear, including but not limited to cowboy hats, baseball caps, novelty hats, or other non-approved items.

Cap decorations are permitted provided they are respectful, in good taste, and consistent with the mission, values, and Christian identity of Palm Beach Atlantic University. Decorations may not extend beyond the edges of the cap, obstruct the view of others, contain offensive language or imagery, promote political candidates or partisan political messages, or include controversial content that is inconsistent with the University’s community standards. Doctoral tams may not be decorated.

Only honor cords, medals, stoles, and sashes officially awarded or approved by Palm Beach Atlantic University may be worn during the commencement ceremony. Students are limited to four (4) sashes or honor cords. All regalia must be purchased through the University’s approved vendor. Flags, flag-themed draping, and other non-approved adornments are not permitted. Please refer to the Regalia Policy for approved graduate attire.

Stoles and Sashes: Stoles and sashes recognize academic achievement, participation in University-approved organizations or programs, military service, international student status, and other approved distinctions.

Honor Cords: Honor cords recognize academic achievement, membership in honor societies, leadership, service, and other University-approved accomplishments.

Academic Hood: The academic hood is worn by graduates earning a master’s or doctoral degree. Worn over the shoulders and down the back of the gown, the hood signifies the graduate’s degree and academic discipline. The velvet trim color represents the graduate’s academic field, while the lining displays the official colors of the degree-granting institution.

Palm Beach Atlantic University reserves the right to determine whether attire, regalia, or decorations comply with these standards. Graduates whose attire or regalia does not conform to University policy may be required to remove non-compliant items, exchange them for approved regalia, or may be denied participation in the commencement ceremony.