graduation tassel rules
Graduation tassels are traditionally worn on the right side of the mortarboard cap at the start of the ceremony. During the event, graduates typically move the tassel to the left side after receiving their diploma or at a designated moment, symbolizing the completion of their studies. Tassel colors may vary by institution to represent specific degrees, honors, or fields of study, but wearing rules are often set by the school or university organizing the event. Always check with your specific institution for any additional guidelines, as practices can differ.
before and after graduation graduation tassel side
In many graduation ceremonies, the tassel on a graduation cap is worn on the right side before the ceremony to symbolize ongoing student status. After the graduate receives their diploma or completes the event, the tassel is traditionally flipped to the left side to represent the transition to alumni status. This custom varies by institution or culture but is common in Western traditions.
graduation cap tassel
A graduation cap tassel is a decorative cord or string attached to the top of a mortarboard cap, commonly worn during academic graduation ceremonies. It is typically made of silk, rayon, or synthetic materials and hangs from a button or loop on the cap. Tassels often come in specific colors that represent the wearer's degree, field of study, or institution—such as gold for business or blue for education. During the ceremony, the tassel is traditionally flipped from one side of the cap to the other, symbolizing the transition from student to graduate. This custom varies by country and institution but is a widespread tradition in English-speaking educational systems.
graduation cap tassel color meaning
Graduation cap tassel colors typically represent a student's academic field or degree type, though meanings can vary by institution. Common associations include:
- White: Arts, letters, humanities
- Gold or yellow: Science
- Light blue: Education
- Orange: Engineering
- Purple: Law
- Drab (dull grey-brown): Business or commerce
- Green: Medicine
- Crimson: Journalism
- Maize: Agriculture
- Pink: Music
- Brown: Fine arts
Black tassels are often used for general or unspecified degrees. Always check with your school for specific guidelines.
why do you move your tassel from right to left
The tradition of moving the graduation cap tassel from right to left during a ceremony symbolizes the transition from student to graduate. It signifies that you have completed your academic studies and are now officially recognized as an alumnus or alumna. This custom is common in many educational systems, particularly in the United States, and dates back to academic traditions in Europe.
how to wear graduation cap tassel
To wear a graduation cap tassel, start by placing the cap on your head so it sits flat and level, with the front edge about an inch above your eyebrows and the back parallel to the floor. Attach the tassel to the button on the top center of the cap. For most ceremonies, position the tassel on the right side before the event begins. During the ceremony, after your name is called or degrees are conferred, flip the tassel to the left side to symbolize completion. Adjust as needed for comfort and to keep it from obstructing your view.
graduation cap tassel meaning
A graduation cap tassel is a decorative cord attached to the mortarboard cap worn during commencement ceremonies. It symbolizes the completion of academic studies and the transition from student to graduate. Traditionally, in many ceremonies, the tassel starts on the right side of the cap and is moved to the left after receiving a diploma, marking the official conferral of the degree. The color of the tassel often indicates the field of study or degree type, such as gold for science, blue for philosophy, or black for general use, though specific colors vary by institution.
how to wear a graduation cap
To wear a graduation cap, hold it by the flat board with the tassel dangling down. Position the cap on your head so the flat top is level and parallel to the ground, with the front edge sitting about an inch above your eyebrows. Secure it by adjusting any elastic band or strings under your chin for a comfortable fit. Start with the tassel on the right side before the ceremony; once you've graduated or as instructed, move the tassel to the left side to symbolize completion. Ensure the cap stays straight and doesn't tilt during the event. If it feels loose, gently tighten the band without overdoing it.