How does the rental program work?
Regalia for commencement is now available through a rental program with our vendor, Herff Jones. You order your regalia, wear it at the ceremony, and return your gown after your graduation(s). Graduates will keep their cap and tassel, and stoles are available for purchase at the student store separately.
What do the gowns look like this year?
How much does it cost?
What’s the timeline for placing and receiving orders?
The pre-order deadline for pickup at the Cal Student Store is March 27. The pre-order deadline for shipping (cost starts at an additional $18.10) to your address is April 20
Pick up at the Cal Student Store begins May 4
Why was this change made?
This change supports UC Berkeley's longstanding commitment to sustainability and responsible resource stewardship. It also aligns the campus with the University of California Office of the President's Single-Use Plastic Elimination Policy
Traditional graduation regalia is made from single-use plastic materials that contribute to waste. Transitioning to a rental program supports Berkeley's institutional commitments by reducing waste at the source. The reusable EarthGrad™ gowns from Herff Jones are the only regalia certified as manufactured from 100% recycled materials, and can be worn by multiple graduates across many ceremonies.
Who made the decision?
This initiative was developed in alignment with the University of California Policy on Sustainable Practices, which was first adopted in 2004 and has been expanded over time to include zero waste goals as a key element of UC's sustainability commitments. The decision reflects UC Berkeley's institutional commitment to sustainability and was made in partnership with campus sustainability leadership and zero waste planning efforts.
Why is the rental regalia so expensive?
I can't afford to rent regalia. What are my options?
Do I have to rent regalia to participate in the campuswide ceremony?
No. You may wear regalia, business casual, or cocktail attire. Regalia is not required for any participants at the campuswide commencement ceremony. To confirm expectations for your department ceremony, please contact your department coordinator
Can I place a rental order at the Cal Student Store?
Yes, last-minute rentals are available at the Cal Student Store starting May 4. However, availability may be limited, so ordering online in advance is your best option.
What does the student store have to do with this?
The Cal Student Store recently transitioned to a new vendor, Barnes & Noble College, and is the official university retail store for branded UC Berkeley apparel. However, this change is unrelated to the new regalia rental program. The regalia contract is a separate agreement with Herff Jones and was made as part of the university's sustainability efforts outlined in the UC Policy on Sustainable Practices.
Who can I contact for support with my regalia order?
Contact the vendor, Herff Jones, directly at bayareagrad@herffjones.com
Who can answer more questions about why these changes were made?
We recognize that you may have questions about the context and considerations that informed these changes. The updates reflect a review process conducted in collaboration with campus stakeholders and were made in alignment with campus initiatives and operational efficiencies.
For additional information or to inquire about the campus relationship with Herff Jones, please email unionbusiness@berkeley.edu. Questions related to the ordering process or regalia products should be directed to studentstore@berkeley.edu