Montgomery College holds its annual commencement ceremony in May to honor students who have completed associate degrees, certificates, and academic programs at the Rockville Campus. Graduates, faculty, administrators, family, and friends gather for a formal academic procession, degree conferral, speeches, and celebratory recognition of student achievement. A rehearsal is typically held the week before the ceremony to prepare graduates for the procession and ceremony sequence.

Participation in the Montgomery College commencement ceremony requires official academic regalia, including a mortarboard graduation cap, traditional black graduation gown, and coordinating tassel. Montgomery College academic regalia packages are sold at campus bookstores and Grad Fairs beginning in late March; they include the cap, gown, and tassel, and graduates are advised to purchase early to allow time for preparation.

Honor cords are available for graduates who qualify or participate in academic honor societies; for example, Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) stoles are distributed by campus coordinators at Grad Fairs and rehearsal. These honor cords and stoles reflect academic achievement and membership in approved organizations. Other approved honor cords may also be purchased through campus bookstores.

Faculty and staff participating in commencement wear full academic regalia appropriate to their highest earned degree. Faculty gowns typically include hoods and academic caps (mortarboard or tam) with color trim that signifies the academic discipline and scholarly achievement, adding visual distinction to the ceremony and highlighting professional academic standards.

Whether ordering your graduation cap and gown set, coordinating tassels with your academic attire, or selecting honor cords and stoles, Montgomery College’s commencement academic regalia honors student achievement with tradition and pride.