Academic Regalia

The Rensselaer Union Bookstore coordinates the rental and sale of caps, gowns, and hoods for the ceremony. Regalia can be ordered from the bookstore beginning on Feb. 21, 2008. Information concerning cap and gown ordering can be found on the Bookstore's Web site: www.bookstore.rpi.edu, or by contacting the Bookstore at 518-276-6552.

Rensselaer Union Bookstore Hours:
Monday through Friday: 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Saturday: Noon – 4 p.m. (While classes are in session)

Bachelor's and Master's degree candidates:
If you are attending the ceremony, you can purchase regalia which includes a cap, gown, and hood at the Rensselaer Union Bookstore. The regalia will be your personal property following Commencement. Sales of this merchandise will begin on Feb. 21.

Doctoral candidates:
You may purchase or rent doctoral regalia at the Rensselaer Union Bookstore. Doctoral orders can be placed between Feb. 15 and Feb. 29. There will be a representative of the Cap and Gown company at the Bookstore's 2008 Grad Fair on Feb. 21 from 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Please note: The Rensselaer Doctoral Regalia is custom made for Rensselaer. Orders for the Doctoral regalia for the 2008 Commencement must be placed by Feb. 29. Refunds will be given until May 15 if you are unable to attend commencement. Rented doctoral regalia can be returned immediately following the ceremony, at the ceremony, or at the Bookstore.

Faculty members:
Faculty members may order regalia online.

Regalia Policy

Rensselaer abides by the rules of the Intercollegiate Bureau of Academic Costume; however, members of nationally recognized academic Honor Societies may display approved insignias on the standard academic regalia.

All insignias must be pre-approved for display through the office of the vice Provost and Dean for Undergraduate Education. Request letters for approval of insignia should include the name, address, and telephone number of the National Honor Society; a description of the insignia including its size, and where it will be worn on the standard Rensselaer academic regalia.

Questions? Please contact us at commencement@rpi.edu.