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Graduation cap size chart

Many graduation caps are sized by head circumference. Enter yours to see which mortarboard size to order.

Hat size calculator

Your hat size
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Your head circumference
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Enter your head measurement to see your size in every system.

Mortarboard size chart

Graduation caps that come in sizes usually run from M to XXL. Many schools also offer a one-size cap with an elastic band that fits most adults.

Mortarboard size chart
SizeHead circumference (cm)Head circumference (Inches)US
M 54 – 55 21 ¼ – 21 ⅝ –
L 56 – 57 22 – 22 ½ –
XL 58 – 59 22 ⅞ – 23 ¼ –
XXL 60 – 61 23 ⅝ – 24 –

Mortarboard dimensions

The square board on top is usually about 24 cm (9 ½ in) per side, the skull cap is about 8 to 10 cm (3 to 4 in) deep and the tassel hangs about 23 cm (9 in). These stay the same across sizes; only the headband changes.

How to wear a graduation cap

  • Wear it flat on your head, not tilted back, with a point of the board at the centre of your forehead.
  • The headband sits just above your eyebrows and ears.
  • Secure a loose cap with bobby pins at the sides.
  • Keep the tassel on the right before the ceremony unless your school says otherwise.

Fit tips

  • If you are between sizes, choose the larger one and secure it with bobby pins.
  • Plan your hairstyle before ordering. A high bun needs a larger size or a one-size elastic cap.

How to measure your head

  1. 1 Use a soft tape measure, or a string and a ruler.
  2. 2 Wrap it around your head where the hat will sit: about 1 cm (⅜ in) above your ears and across the middle of your forehead.
  3. 3 Keep the tape level and snug, not tight. Do not pull it in.
  4. 4 Read the number where the tape overlaps. Measure two or three times and use the largest value.
  5. 5 Type the number into the calculator, or find it in the chart.
How to measure

Frequently asked questions

What size graduation cap do I need?

Measure around your head just above the ears. 54 to 55 cm is M, 56 to 57 cm is L, 58 to 59 cm is XL and 60 to 61 cm is XXL.

Are graduation caps one size fits all?

Many are. One-size caps have an elastic band and fit most adults. Others come in M to XXL.

What if my graduation cap is too big?

Use bobby pins at the sides or a strip of foam sizing tape inside the band.

Related charts

All charts