University of Nevada Las Vegas Commencement: How Students Prepare for Graduation

Preparing for Commencement: A Step‑by‑Step Guide

Graduation is a milestone that requires careful planning. UNLV’s faculty and staff support students from the moment they arrive at the Thomas & Mack Center until they cross the stage. Below is a practical checklist that ensures you look polished and feel confident on your big day.

• Arrive Early – Most students receive a name card upon arrival. Arriving early gives you time to collect your card, meet the card reader, and get a feel for the venue.
• Check Your Regalia – Verify that your cap, gown, stole, and hood (if applicable) match the color codes for your degree. Faculty members are on hand to help adjust caps and place tassels correctly.
• Practice the Tassel Move – During the ceremony, you’ll be instructed to move your tassel from the right to the left. Practicing this motion beforehand helps you stay composed.
• Finalize Your Cap Decoration – If you choose to decorate your mortarboard, do so a day before the ceremony to avoid last‑minute mishaps.
• Confirm Your Stole or Cord – Stoles and cords signify club or academic achievements. Make sure they are properly draped and secured.

For more detailed guidance, explore UNLV’s Commencement Services.

Understanding UNLV Regalia and Traditions

UNLV’s regalia is rich with symbolism. Each element—cap, gown, stole, hood—conveys a specific achievement or affiliation.

• Cap and Tassel – Bachelor’s students wear a scarlet and gray tassel; doctoral candidates wear a gray tassel. The tassel’s placement shift marks the transition from student to graduate.
• Stole and Cord – These accessories represent participation in student organizations, academic honors, or cultural identities. Faculty members adjust stoles to ensure they sit correctly.
• Hood – Master’s students don a hood over their robe. The hood’s color and length reflect the field of study and the institution that conferred the degree.
• Gown Color – Bachelor’s gowns are scarlet, master’s gowns are black, and doctoral gowns combine scarlet and gray. All gowns feature the embroidered phrase “Rebels Forever.”

Learn more about the symbolism behind each piece by visiting the Rebels Forever alumni page.

Choosing Cap Decorations That Reflect Your Journey

Decorating your cap is a personal statement. UNLV’s tradition of cap decoration allows you to showcase your values, goals, and experiences.

• Keep It Simple – A single meaningful symbol or phrase can be more impactful than an overly busy design.
• Use Durable Materials – Opt for waterproof or heat‑resistant decorations to avoid damage during the ceremony.
• Coordinate with Your Degree – If you’re a business student, a light‑brown stole or a logo that reflects your major can tie the look together.
• Practice Placement – Attach decorations a day before to ensure they stay in place during the ceremony.

Need inspiration? Read UNLV’s recent coverage on cap decoration for creative ideas.

The Role of Stoles, Hoods, and Gowns in Your Graduation

Each piece of regalia tells a part of your academic story. Understanding their significance helps you present yourself with confidence.

• Stoles – Highlight your extracurricular achievements or cultural heritage. They are worn over the left shoulder and secured with a tie.
• Hoods – For master’s students, the hood’s color indicates the field of study. The hood’s length also reflects the level of the degree.
• Gowns – The gown’s color distinguishes your degree level, while the embroidered “Rebels Forever” connects you to the alumni network.

For a visual guide, view UNLV’s regalia showcase.

Staying Connected: Joining the Rebels Forever Alumni Community

Crossing the stage automatically enrolls you in the Rebels Forever alumni family, a network of over 151,000 members worldwide. Membership offers networking events, career resources, and lifelong learning opportunities.

• Register Online – Complete your alumni profile to receive updates and event invitations.
• Attend Alumni Events – Engage with fellow graduates and current students to expand your professional network.
• Leverage Career Services – Access job boards, resume reviews, and interview preparation tailored to UNLV alumni.

Ready to join? Sign up for Rebels Forever today.

Next Steps for Prospective Students

If you’re considering UNLV for your undergraduate or graduate studies, the commencement experience is a key part of campus life. To learn more about programs, admissions, and campus culture, submit your application today or schedule a campus tour to see the Thomas & Mack Center in person.

Have questions about the commencement process or need personalized advice? Contact the admissions office for guidance.