If you already own a graduation gown from your bachelor’s degree, you may be wondering whether you really need to buy another gown when you graduate with a master’s degree.
At first glance, the two gowns can look remarkably similar. Both may be black, both may have a flowing academic silhouette and both are commonly worn with a graduation cap and tassel.
But appearance alone does not make them interchangeable.
Bachelor’s and master’s gowns represent different levels of academic dress, and one of the most noticeable differences is often found in the sleeves. Master’s regalia may also include an academic hood and other degree-specific requirements that were not part of your bachelor’s graduation outfit.
So can you use the same gown?
Possibly only if your college or university specifically permits it and the gown satisfies its current master’s-level academic-regalia requirements. You should not assume that a bachelor’s gown is acceptable for a master’s ceremony simply because the color and size appear similar.
This guide compares bachelor’s and master’s graduation gowns, explains what to inspect on an older gown and helps you determine whether buying new graduate regalia is necessary.
Bachelor’s Gown vs. Master’s Gown: What Is the Main Difference?
The biggest distinction is that the gowns correspond to different academic degree levels.
A bachelor’s gown is designed for bachelor-level academic dress.
A master’s gown is designed for graduate-level academic dress.
Depending on the academic-regalia system and institution, the differences can include:
- Sleeve construction
- Overall gown design
- Required fabric
- Required color
- Required finish
- Institution-specific details
- Accessories worn with the gown
The sleeve design is often the easiest visual distinction to notice.
Why Do Master’s Gown Sleeves Look Different?
Academic gowns have traditionally used garment construction to help distinguish degree levels.
As a result, a master’s gown may have a noticeably different sleeve shape from a bachelor’s gown.
The exact construction varies by product and institution, so you should not rely on one photograph as a universal standard.
When shopping, confirm that the product is specifically identified as a master’s graduation gown.
What Do Bachelor’s Graduation Gown Sleeves Look Like?
Bachelor’s gowns commonly use a comparatively straightforward sleeve construction.
Depending on the gown design, the sleeves may resemble the familiar traditional graduation gown many students wore for undergraduate commencement.
However, gown construction varies by manufacturer and institution.
Use the degree-level product description rather than trying to classify an unknown gown from sleeve appearance alone.
What Do Master’s Graduation Gown Sleeves Look Like?
Master’s gowns can use a more distinctive graduate-level sleeve construction.
This can create a visibly different silhouette around the arms compared with many bachelor’s gowns.
If you place a typical bachelor’s gown and master’s gown side by side, the sleeve area may be the easiest place to identify a difference.
Does the Master’s Gown Have a Different Body Shape?
The most obvious difference may be the sleeves, but do not assume that this is the only specification that matters.
Gowns can also differ in:
- Cut
- Fabric
- Fullness
- Closure
- Finish
- Color
- Trim
- Institution-specific construction
Your university’s current requirements should determine whether a particular gown is appropriate.
Can a Bachelor’s Gown and Master’s Gown Be the Same Color?
Yes.
For example, both gowns may be black.
But matching color does not mean the gowns are the same garment.
This is an important distinction for graduates considering reusing an undergraduate gown.
A black bachelor’s gown does not automatically become appropriate master’s regalia simply because your graduate school also requires a black gown.
Can Both Gowns Be Matte?
Yes. Depending on the products and institutional requirements, bachelor’s and master’s gowns can both be available in matte finishes.
Again, the same finish does not make the degree-level construction identical.
What About Shiny Graduation Gowns?
Some academic gowns use fabrics with more visible sheen.
If your institution specifies matte or another finish, your previous gown should match that requirement in addition to satisfying the correct degree-level design.
Can You Reuse Your Bachelor’s Gown for a Master’s Graduation?
Do not assume you can.
Before reusing your old gown, ask your institution whether the bachelor-level garment satisfies its master’s commencement requirements.
In many situations, the appropriate master’s gown will have degree-level construction that differs from the bachelor’s gown.
If the university requires a master’s-specific gown, your bachelor’s gown would not be an equivalent substitute.
Why Students Consider Reusing Their Bachelor’s Gown
The idea is understandable.
You may already own a gown that:
- Still fits
- Is the correct general color
- Is in excellent condition
- Looks similar in photographs
- Was used only once
Reusing graduation apparel can appear convenient and economical.
However, compatibility should be verified before cost savings become the deciding factor.
Ask Your Graduate School Before Reusing the Gown
A simple question can prevent a commencement-day problem.
Ask:
“Does my bachelor’s gown meet the academic-regalia requirements for my master’s commencement ceremony?”
Provide details or photographs if the appropriate university office requests them.
Seven Things to Check on Your Old Bachelor’s Gown
If you are considering reuse, inspect the gown systematically.
1. Degree-Level Construction
Is the gown actually designed for master’s-level academic dress?
This is the most important question.
2. Sleeve Design
Compare the sleeve construction with your institution’s master’s gown requirements.
3. Gown Color
Make sure the color matches the current requirement.
4. Fabric Finish
If the institution specifies matte or another finish, compare your gown accordingly.
5. Size and Length
A gown that fit several years ago may not provide the same fit today.
6. Condition
Look for:
- Tears
- Stains
- Missing closures
- Damaged seams
- Permanent wrinkles
- Discoloration
7. Current University Requirements
Even a well-preserved gown is not useful if it does not meet the current ceremony specifications.
Can You Modify a Bachelor’s Gown Into a Master’s Gown?
Trying to alter the sleeves or otherwise convert an undergraduate gown is generally not something you should assume will create compliant master’s academic regalia.
Degree-level gown construction can involve more than one visible feature.
If a master’s gown is required, obtaining the appropriate garment is usually more straightforward than attempting to redesign another degree-level gown.
Do Not Just Add a Master’s Hood to a Bachelor’s Gown
This is another common misunderstanding.
A master’s academic hood does not automatically transform a bachelor’s gown into master’s regalia.
The gown and hood are separate components.
If your institution requires both a master’s gown and academic hood, each component should satisfy its respective requirements.
What Is a Master’s Academic Hood?
The academic hood is a distinctive component of graduate regalia when required by the institution.
It is generally worn down the back of the gown and can include:
- An outer shell
- An interior lining
- Edging or velvet depending on the design
- Institution- and degree-related color specifications
The hood should be selected according to the requirements for your degree and institution.
Do Bachelor’s Graduates Wear Academic Hoods?
Practices vary significantly.
Many institutions do not use academic hoods for bachelor’s graduates, while some institutions or traditions may have different practices.
Do not assume that your previous undergraduate experience establishes what is required for your master’s ceremony.
Master’s Gown vs. Bachelor’s Gown: Accessories
The complete graduation outfit may also differ between degree levels.
Bachelor’s Regalia May Include
- Bachelor’s gown
- Graduation cap
- Tassel
- Authorized stoles
- Eligible cords
- Other institution-approved items
Master’s Regalia May Include
- Master’s gown
- Academic hood when required
- Mortarboard or other approved academic headwear
- Tassel
- Authorized stoles
- Eligible cords
- Other institution-approved items
Exact requirements vary by institution.
Can You Reuse Your Bachelor’s Graduation Cap?
Possibly, but do not assume it is automatically acceptable.
Check:
- Required cap style
- Required color
- Condition
- Fit
- Institutional requirements
If the mortarboard meets the current specifications, your institution may permit reuse.
Can You Reuse Your Old Tassel?
The tassel may need to be different for your master’s graduation.
Your institution may specify:
- A particular tassel color
- A school-specific tassel
- A current graduation-year charm
- Another approved configuration
Verify the current requirements rather than assuming your undergraduate tassel can be reused.
Can You Reuse Graduation Stoles?
Only when you remain eligible to wear them and your graduate institution permits them.
A stole associated with undergraduate membership or achievement should not automatically be worn at a graduate commencement ceremony.
Check the rules governing recognition accessories.
Can You Reuse Honor Cords?
The same principle applies to cords.
Eligibility for an undergraduate honor cord does not necessarily mean the cord is appropriate for a master’s commencement.
Confirm before wearing it.
Is a Master’s Gown More Expensive Than a Bachelor’s Gown?
Prices vary by retailer, manufacturer, material, construction, customization and institution.
Rather than assuming one fixed price difference, compare the total cost of the regalia you actually need.
For master’s graduation, that might include:
- Master’s gown
- Cap
- Tassel
- Academic hood
- Required or authorized accessories
- Shipping
- Applicable customization
Does a Master’s Gown Come With a Hood?
Not necessarily.
Some master’s regalia packages may contain:
- Gown
- Mortarboard
- Tassel
The hood may be sold separately.
Other packages may include additional components.
Always read the package contents.
Can You Buy Only a Master’s Gown?
Depending on the retailer and product availability, individual gowns may be available separately from caps, tassels and hoods.
This can be useful if some of your existing academic-regalia components meet your current requirements.
Verify compatibility before mixing pieces from different sets.
Master’s Gown Sizing vs. Bachelor’s Gown Sizing
Do not assume that the size printed on your old bachelor’s gown directly corresponds to every master’s gown.
Sizing systems can vary among manufacturers and products.
Use the size chart for the specific master’s gown you are considering.
Measure Yourself Again Before Ordering
Even if your undergraduate gown was a perfect fit, take current measurements.
Depending on the product, sizing may consider:
- Height
- Weight
- Chest or other body measurements
- Extended-size requirements
Use the information requested by the specific product.
What If Your Bachelor’s Gown Still Fits?
Fit is only one part of the decision.
A gown can fit perfectly and still be the wrong academic design for a master’s degree.
Check degree-level construction first.
What If the Bachelor’s and Master’s Gowns Look Identical Online?
Product photographs can hide important differences.
Black fabric, similar lighting and front-facing photography can make different gowns appear nearly identical.
Read the product descriptions and compare the sleeve construction and degree designation.
Do All Universities Use the Same Master’s Gown?
No.
Institutions can establish their own academic-regalia requirements.
Some use relatively standard academic apparel, while others may require:
- Institution-specific colors
- Custom gown designs
- Special trim
- Embroidered elements
- Other school-specific features
What If Your Graduate School Uses Custom Regalia?
If your institution requires custom master’s regalia, an ordinary bachelor’s gown—or even a generic master’s gown—may not satisfy the requirement.
Follow the institution’s ordering instructions in that situation.
Can You Buy a Master’s Gown From an Independent Retailer?
Master’s graduation gowns are available through independent academic-regalia retailers.
Before purchasing, confirm that your institution permits independently sourced regalia and obtain the required specifications.
What Should You Compare When Shopping Online?
Review:
- Degree level
- Sleeve construction
- Gown color
- Fabric finish
- Size chart
- Available extended sizes
- Package contents
- Whether the hood is included
- Processing time
- Shipping
- Return and exchange terms
Do Not Shop by Photograph Alone
Look for a clear written description stating that the garment is a master’s gown.
A photograph of a black graduation gown is not enough to determine the academic level.
Should You Rent or Buy a Master’s Gown?
Both options may be available depending on your institution or supplier.
When comparing them, consider:
- Total cost
- What pieces are included
- Whether the hood is included
- Rental return deadline
- Potential replacement charges
- Whether you want to keep the gown
- Potential future use
When Does Reusing Graduation Regalia Make Sense?
Reusing a component can make sense when all of the following are true:
- Your institution permits it
- The component is appropriate for the current degree level
- It matches current specifications
- It still fits properly
- It is in good condition
Reuse should be based on compatibility, not appearance alone.
When Should You Buy a New Master’s Gown?
A new gown may be necessary when:
- Your bachelor’s gown has undergraduate-level construction
- The sleeve design does not meet master’s requirements
- Your graduate school requires another color
- The required fabric or finish differs
- Your previous gown no longer fits
- The gown is damaged or worn
- Your university uses school-specific graduate regalia
How to Compare Your Old Gown With the New Requirement
Place your bachelor’s gown on a hanger and make a simple checklist.
Old Bachelor’s Gown
- Degree level: __________
- Sleeve style: __________
- Color: __________
- Finish: __________
- Size: __________
- Condition: __________
Required Master’s Gown
- Degree level: __________
- Sleeve style: __________
- Color: __________
- Finish: __________
- Size requirement: __________
- School-specific features: __________
If the degree-level design does not match, similar color and size do not solve the problem.
Complete Master’s Regalia Verification Checklist
Before graduation, confirm:
- I know my university’s master’s gown requirement
- I have the correct degree-level gown
- The gown color is correct
- The fabric or finish is acceptable
- The gown size is appropriate
- I know whether a hood is required
- I have verified the correct academic hood
- I have the required cap or headwear
- I have the correct tassel
- I have confirmed any authorized stoles
- I have confirmed any eligible cords
- I have tried on the complete outfit
Master’s and Bachelor’s Graduation Regalia From Cap and Gown Outlet
Cap and Gown Outlet is an independent academic regalia retailer serving individual graduates and qualifying group and institutional customers.
Depending on current inventory and product availability, graduation products may include:
- Bachelor’s graduation gowns
- Master’s graduation gowns
- Graduation caps
- Graduation tassels
- Master’s academic hoods
- Graduation stoles
- Honor and recognition cords
- Diploma covers
- Graduation regalia packages
- Individual graduation accessories
Degree-level designs, colors, sizes, fabrics and package contents vary by product. Students should verify their college or university’s current academic-regalia requirements before purchasing independently or reusing apparel from a previous degree.
Independent Retailer Disclosure
Cap and Gown Outlet is an independent academic regalia retailer and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, endorsed by or officially authorized by any college or university unless an actual relationship has been established.
Product availability does not establish that a particular gown, hood, cap, tassel or accessory is approved for use at a specific institution or commencement ceremony.
Frequently Asked Questions About Master’s vs. Bachelor’s Gowns
Are bachelor’s and master’s graduation gowns the same?
Not necessarily. They represent different academic degree levels and can differ in construction, particularly around the sleeves. Institutional requirements also vary.
Can I wear my bachelor’s gown for my master’s graduation?
Only if your institution permits it and the gown meets its current master’s-level regalia requirements. Do not assume that matching color or fit makes a bachelor’s gown appropriate.
What is the easiest way to tell a master’s gown from a bachelor’s gown?
The sleeve construction is often a noticeable distinction, but product designs vary. Confirm the degree level through the product specifications rather than relying only on appearance.
Can I turn my bachelor’s gown into a master’s gown by adding a hood?
No assumption should be made that adding an academic hood changes the degree level of the gown. The gown and hood are separate components, and each should meet your institution’s requirements.
Can bachelor’s and master’s gowns both be black?
Yes. Matching color does not mean the gowns have identical degree-level construction.
Do master’s graduates always wear an academic hood?
Hood practices vary by institution and program. Check your graduate school’s commencement instructions.
Can I reuse my bachelor’s graduation cap for my master’s degree?
Possibly, if the cap meets the current style, color and other requirements established by your institution.
Can I reuse my bachelor’s tassel?
Possibly, but your master’s ceremony may require a different color, configuration or graduation-year charm. Verify the current requirements.
Can I reuse my undergraduate honor cords at graduate school?
Do not assume that undergraduate recognition accessories remain appropriate. Confirm eligibility and commencement rules with your graduate institution.
Does a master’s gown automatically include an academic hood?
No. Some packages include the gown, cap and tassel while the hood is sold separately. Always review package contents.
Do all master’s gowns have the same sleeve style?
Gown construction can vary by manufacturer and institution. Use your institution’s requirements and the product’s degree-level description when selecting a gown.
Should I order the same graduation gown size I wore for my bachelor’s degree?
Not automatically. Use the size chart for the specific master’s gown and take current measurements rather than relying on an older gown size.
Check the Degree Level Before Reusing Your Graduation Gown
The most important difference in the master’s gown vs. bachelor’s gown comparison is not simply price, color or whether the old gown still fits. It is whether the garment is appropriate for the academic degree level and satisfies your institution’s current commencement requirements.
A bachelor’s and master’s gown may both be black. They may both be matte. From a distance, they may even look nearly identical.
But differences in sleeve construction and other academic-regalia specifications can make them distinct garments.
Before reusing your bachelor’s gown, compare it with your graduate school’s requirements. Verify the gown design, color, fabric, finish and fit, and separately confirm whether you need a master’s academic hood, cap, tassel or other approved accessories.
If your existing gown does not satisfy the master’s-level requirements, choose the appropriate graduate gown rather than trying to make undergraduate regalia serve a different academic level.
A few minutes of verification can help ensure that your complete master’s graduation outfit is ready for commencement.
