To personalize and elevate the USC Commencement experience, custom academic regalia was introduced in 2018 for Bachelor’s and Master’s graduates. This includes a black gown with cardinal piping and sleeve bands, featuring USC Shield embroidery. Worn exclusively by USC graduates, this regalia celebrates Trojan Family tradition. Doctoral candidates wear a custom cardinal robe with velvet accents and the USC torch of knowledge embroidered on the lapels. While USC custom regalia is the preferred attire, graduates may opt for traditional black robes.
Ordering Commencement Regalia
Students may rent or purchase custom USC regalia from the USC Bookstore for Commencement. Each rental includes a mortarboard cap and tassel, which graduates may keep as a souvenir.
USC offers honor cords for undergraduates as the only official regalia decoration. Many graduates also choose to enhance their regalia with floral leis or customized stoles.
Please remember to return rented gowns and hoods to the designated drop-off bins around campus after your ceremony.
Graduate Student Hood Colors
Important note for master’s and doctoral candidates:
When placing your rental order, be sure to specify the degree you’re earning to receive the correct velvet trim color for your hood. Ph.D. hoods use a different color than other doctoral degrees, and some Master of Science programs may have their own college-specific velvet colors, while others use traditional gold. Refer to the hood color key for details.
When you receive your order, open the package right away to confirm that your regalia fits properly and that you’ve received the correct hood color and accessories. Doing this early will help you avoid any last-minute issues on your ceremony day.
For questions, contact the USC Bookstore Grad Shop at (213) 740-7414 or gradproducts@usc.edu.