What Is a Graduation Stole?

Graduation stoles are sometimes called graduation sashes, you can use the two terms interchangeably.

A graduation stole is a long, narrow strip of fabric worn over the shoulders during a graduation ceremony. It drapes evenly down the front of the graduation gown and is used to represent a graduate’s achievements, honors, cultural heritage, or membership in a specific organization.

Graduation stoles are typically made of high quality satin and may feature embroidered text, symbols, school logos, or meaningful colors. While caps and gowns are usually standardized, the stole allows graduates to personalize their academic attire and highlight the accomplishments or affiliations that are important to them on graduation day.

The History of Graduation Stoles and Sashes

Graduation stoles have their roots in centuries-old academic traditions that date back to medieval Europe.

1, Origins in Medieval Academia (12th–14th Century)

· The earliest universities in Europe (such as Oxford, Paris, and Bologna) required scholars to wear robes inspired by clergy attire.

· Academic dress symbolized learning, discipline, and status.

· Early garments included hoods, robes, and scarves that later evolved into modern academic regalia.

2, Development of Academic Regalia (18th–19th Century)

· As universities expanded, academic dress became more standardized.

· In 1895, U.S. institutions adopted the Intercollegiate Code of Academic Costume, which formalized gowns, caps, hoods, and colors.

· While stoles were not officially part of the original academic code, they emerged later as symbolic additions.

3, Modern Use of Graduation Stoles (20th Century)

· During the mid-to-late 20th century, graduation stoles became popular in the United States.

· They were used to recognize:

(1), Academic honors (cum laude, magna cum laude, summa cum laude)

(2), Student organizations and honor societies

(3), Cultural identity and heritage (e.g., Latino, African American, Asian American stoles)

· Stoles offered students a personal and visible way to celebrate achievements and identity.

4, Graduation Stoles Today

· Today, graduation stoles are widely accepted and often customized with:

(1) , Embroidery (names, graduation year)

(2) , School colors and logos

(3) , Cultural patterns and symbols

· They represent pride, inclusion, accomplishment, and belonging, complementing traditional academic attire.

Graduation stoles evolved from ancient academic clothing into a modern symbol of achievement, recognition, and identity, blending tradition with personal expression.

How to Wear a Graduation Stole Correctly?

To wear a graduation stole correctly, drape it around the back of your neck so it rests evenly on both shoulders, allowing each end to hang straight down the front of your graduation gown. The stole should sit flat against the gown and be centered, with both sides the same length for a neat, balanced look.

Ensure that any text, embroidery, or symbols face outward and are right-side up so they are clearly visible during the ceremony and in photos. Graduation stoles are typically worn over the gown but underneath academic cords, unless your school specifies otherwise. Before the ceremony begins, take a moment to adjust the stole so it stays in place and maintains a polished appearance throughout graduation day.