NUS Academic Dress: A Guide for Graduating Students

Introduction

NUS Academic Dress is a unique and cherished tradition that has been passed down through generations of graduates. It is a symbol of academic achievement and a testament to the hard work and dedication of our students.

As you prepare for your graduation, it is important to understand the regulations surrounding academic dress and to ensure that you are wearing it correctly. This guide will provide you with all the information you need to know about NUS Academic Dress, from the history and significance of the gown to the proper way to wear it.

History and Significance

NUS Academic Dress was first introduced in 1949, when the University of Malaya was established. The gown was designed to be similar to the gowns worn by graduates of British universities, but with some unique Singaporean elements.

The gown is made of black silk and features a V-neckline and long sleeves. It is worn with a white shirt, black trousers or skirt, and a black mortarboard cap. The gown is also adorned with a hood, which is lined with the colour of the graduate's faculty.

The hood is a symbol of the graduate's academic achievement. The colour of the lining indicates the faculty in which the graduate earned their degree.

Regulations

The following regulations apply to the wearing of NUS Academic Dress:

• All graduating students are required to wear NUS Academic Dress at their graduation ceremony.
• The gown must be worn over a white shirt, black trousers or skirt, and a black mortarboard cap.
• The hood must be worn over the gown and should be lined with the colour of the graduate's faculty.
• The gown should be worn so that the hem falls just below the knee.
• The mortarboard cap should be worn with the tassel on the left side.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

There are a few common mistakes that students make when wearing NUS Academic Dress. These include:

• Wearing the gown too short or too long.
• Wearing the hood incorrectly.
• Wearing the mortarboard cap with the tassel on the wrong side.
• Wearing the gown with the wrong colour hood.

To avoid these mistakes, it is important to carefully follow the regulations above.

How to Wear NUS Academic Dress

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to wear NUS Academic Dress:

1. Put on the white shirt and black trousers or skirt.
2. Put on the gown and make sure that the hem falls just below the knee.
3. Put on the hood and make sure that the lining is the correct colour for your faculty.
4. Put on the mortarboard cap and make sure that the tassel is on the left side.

FAQs

1. What if I don't have NUS Academic Dress?

If you do not have NUS Academic Dress, you can rent it from the University Bookstore.

2. What if I have a disability that prevents me from wearing NUS Academic Dress?

If you have a disability that prevents you from wearing NUS Academic Dress, you can contact the University's Disability Services office for assistance.

3. What should I do if I spill something on my NUS Academic Dress?

If you spill something on your NUS Academic Dress, you should immediately take it to a dry cleaner.

4. Can I wear my NUS Academic Dress to other events?

You can wear your NUS Academic Dress to other events, but it is important to follow the regulations for wearing the gown.

5. What is the difference between a bachelor's gown and a master's gown?

A bachelor's gown has a pointed hood, while a master's gown has a square hood.

6. What is the difference between a doctoral gown and a professorial gown?

A doctoral gown has a long, flowing train, while a professorial gown has a shorter train.

Call to Action

As you prepare for your graduation, we encourage you to learn more about NUS Academic Dress and to make sure that you are wearing it correctly. This important tradition is a symbol of your academic achievement and your commitment to lifelong learning.

Useful Tables

Table 1: Hood Colours for Faculties

Table 2: Gown Lengths

Table 3: Mortarboard Cap Tassel Positions