Honor cords are a type of academic regalia worn by students during graduation ceremonies to indicate academic achievement. For example, some universities may use gold cords to signify cum laude honors, while silver cords may represent magna cum laude honors. Honor cords may also be used to indicate membership in a specific honor society or academic organization.
In addition to academic honors, honor cords may also be used to recognize other achievements such as leadership, community service, or extracurricular activities. Some universities and colleges may also allow students to purchase honor cords to recognize their membership in a particular club or organization. Honor cords can be worn by students of all levels, from high school to graduate school and they are typically worn over the gown during the graduation ceremony.