{"id":2703,"date":"2026-08-24T09:53:53","date_gmt":"2026-08-24T09:53:53","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.capandgownoutlet.com\/resources\/?p=2703"},"modified":"2026-10-06T13:15:31","modified_gmt":"2026-10-06T13:15:31","slug":"doctoral-tam-vs-mortarboard-difference","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.capandgownoutlet.com\/resources\/doctoral-tam-vs-mortarboard-difference\/","title":{"rendered":"Doctoral Tam vs. Mortarboard: What Is the Difference?"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t
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\n\nWhen preparing for a doctoral graduation, one detail can completely change the appearance of your academic regalia: the headwear. Some doctoral graduates wear a traditional mortarboard<\/strong>, while others wear a distinctive doctoral tam<\/strong><\/a>. Although both are forms of academic headwear, they differ in shape, construction, appearance, and academic tradition. Understanding the differences can help you choose the correct option for your commencement ceremony.\n

What Is a Doctoral Tam?<\/h2>\nA doctoral tam<\/strong> is a soft, rounded academic cap commonly associated with doctoral-level regalia. Unlike the rigid square top of a mortarboard, a tam typically has a fuller crown constructed with multiple fabric panels.\n\nDoctoral tams are often made with velvet or velvet-like material and are designed to complement the formal appearance of a doctoral gown and academic hood.\n

What Does a Doctoral Tam Look Like?<\/h3>\nA doctoral tam generally has a circular or multi-sided crown rather than a square board. Depending on the style, it may be constructed with four, six, or eight sides.\n\nA tassel is normally attached at the top, completing the traditional academic appearance.\n

What Is a Mortarboard?<\/h2>\nA mortarboard graduation cap<\/strong> is the familiar square academic cap worn at many high school, bachelor\u2019s, master\u2019s, and doctoral ceremonies.\n\nIt typically consists of a fitted or flexible headpiece attached to a flat square board. A tassel connects to a button in the center of the board.\n

Why Is It Called a Mortarboard?<\/h3>\nThe name comes from the cap\u2019s resemblance to the flat board traditionally used by masons to hold mortar.\n

Doctoral Tam vs. Mortarboard: The Main Differences<\/h2>\nThe easiest way to distinguish the two is by looking at their shape and construction.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
Feature<\/th>\nDoctoral Tam<\/th>\nMortarboard<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
Shape<\/strong><\/td>\nRounded or multi-sided<\/td>\nFlat and square<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Structure<\/strong><\/td>\nGenerally soft and flexible<\/td>\nRigid square top<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Common Material<\/strong><\/td>\nOften velvet or velvet-like fabric<\/td>\nFabric-covered structured board<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Academic Use<\/strong><\/td>\nStrongly associated with doctoral regalia<\/td>\nUsed across multiple degree levels<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Tassel<\/strong><\/td>\nTypically included or attached<\/td>\nTypically attached to center button<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

Is a Doctoral Tam Only for PhD Graduates?<\/h2>\nA tam is strongly associated with doctoral academic dress, but specific requirements depend on the degree and institution. Universities may establish their own standards for PhD, EdD, DBA, professional doctorate, and other doctoral graduates.\n\nDo not assume that earning a doctorate automatically means you should wear a particular tam. Always verify your institution\u2019s doctoral regalia<\/a> requirements before ordering.<\/strong>\n

Can Doctoral Graduates Wear a Mortarboard?<\/h2>\nYes, some doctoral graduates wear mortarboards. Academic regalia requirements vary among universities, and certain institutions may permit or require a traditional mortarboard instead of a tam.\n\nThe appropriate choice should therefore be based on your school\u2019s official commencement guidelines rather than appearance alone.\n

How Many Sides Does a Doctoral Tam Have?<\/h2>\nDoctoral tams are available in different constructions, including four-sided, six-sided, and eight-sided styles<\/strong>. The number of sides affects the shape and overall appearance of the crown.\n

Four-Sided Doctoral Tam<\/h3>\nA four-sided tam provides a relatively simple multi-panel appearance while maintaining the soft styling associated with doctoral headwear.\n

Six-Sided Doctoral Tam<\/h3>\nA six-sided tam has additional panels that create a fuller, more rounded appearance.\n

Eight-Sided Doctoral Tam<\/h3>\nAn eight-sided tam uses additional sections to produce a distinctive full crown. It is frequently seen with formal doctoral regalia.\n\nThe number of sides required or preferred can vary, so check your institution\u2019s specifications before selecting a style.\n

Doctoral Tam vs. Mortarboard: Which Looks More Formal?<\/h2>\nDoctoral tams are commonly associated with the more elaborate appearance of doctoral academic regalia. Velvet doctoral gowns, academic hoods, sleeve bars, and tams together create a distinctive ceremonial look.\n\nA mortarboard provides the traditional square-cap appearance familiar across many levels of graduation.\n\nNeither option should be selected solely because it appears more formal. The correct academic headwear is the one that meets your institution\u2019s requirements.\n

What Tassel Is Worn With a Doctoral Tam?<\/h2>\nDoctoral tams are typically worn with a tassel attached near the top or center of the cap. Tassel materials and colors can vary according to the regalia package and institutional requirements.\n\nSome doctoral academic traditions may use a gold-colored tassel<\/strong>, while other schools specify different colors or designs.\n

Does the Tassel Move From Right to Left?<\/h3>\nTassel traditions are not identical at every degree level or institution. Some doctoral graduates may not participate in the same tassel-turning tradition commonly associated with undergraduate ceremonies.\n\nFollow the instructions provided during your commencement ceremony.\n

How Should a Doctoral Tam Fit?<\/h2>\nA tam should fit securely enough to remain in place while walking, sitting, and participating in the ceremony without creating unnecessary discomfort.\n\nDoctoral tams may use different sizing systems depending on the manufacturer. Some are sized, while others may have adjustable features.\n

Measure Before Ordering<\/h3>\nFollow the specific sizing instructions provided for the tam you are purchasing rather than assuming your regular hat size will automatically apply.\n

How Should a Mortarboard Fit?<\/h2>\nA mortarboard should sit securely with the square board generally appearing level. Avoid positioning it excessively far toward the back of the head.\n\nThe tassel should hang naturally without repeatedly falling across your face.\n

How Does Doctoral Headwear Coordinate With the Gown?<\/h2>\nDoctoral academic regalia is traditionally more elaborate than bachelor\u2019s or master\u2019s attire. A complete doctoral ensemble may include:\n