How much do you know about Harvard?

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Illustrations by Liz Zonarich/Harvard Staff; Harvard file photos

Sy Boles

Harvard Staff Writer

1 min read

Sure, you might have earned a diploma, but can you earn an A on this quiz?

A collection of features and graduate profiles covering Harvard’s 375th Commencement.

Over its 390-year lifespan and 375 Commencements, Harvard has accumulated a lot of lore. Prove how much you know about America’s oldest university in this quiz.

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1. What is the nickname of the John Harvard Statue in Harvard Yard?
2. Harvard Yard has how many major gates?
3. What is the oldest building in Harvard Yard?
4. In the 1800s, Harvard briefly adopted what school color?
5. True or false: All Harvard students are technically required to pass a swim test.
6. How many degrees were conferred at Harvard College’s first Commencement in 1642?
7. Harvard’s first class Commencement was held 384 years ago, but 2026 marks only the 375th ceremony. That’s because nine Commencements were omitted. Why was there no Commencement in 1644?
8. Who was the first woman to receive an honorary degree from Harvard?
9. Who traditionally calls Commencement to order?
10. True or false: On Commencement Day, Harvard students are prohibited from wearing silk nightgowns.