The novitiate was essentially a probationary training period for anyone wishing to become a monk and during this time the tonsure was not appropriate.
The tonsure was only given once the novice became a professed monk and a full member of the religious community; at that time he made a will, had his hair cut in the Roman tonsure, took his vows and was welcomed with the kiss of peace. He also received the cowl, celebrated Mass and in some Orders spent three days in silence and solitude.
It's called a tonsure, specifically a roman catholic tonsure. It isn't really common today...
In the monastic communities, the lowest grade would be a novice or oblate. Among lay clergy the lowest grades were students in Church schools, church porters (doorkeepers) and clerks in minor orders; all of these were supposed to have their heads shaved in the Roman tonsure, just like priests, bishops and popes.
It's used to describe an experience level, not necessarily an exact age.
julien Massey #
Tunsore
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He had received tonsure but was only in his fifteenth year; he was instituted to the rectory in 1308 while still a minor.
M. Subramanyam has written: 'The tonsure of Hindu widows' -- subject(s): Hinduism, Tonsure, Widows
7 and 8 year olds
Tonsure