graduation tassel rules


Graduation tassel rules typically require wearing the tassel on the right side of the mortarboard cap at the beginning of the ceremony. For most undergraduate events, graduates move it to the left side after receiving their diploma to symbolize completing their degree. Tassel colors often indicate the field of study, such as gold for science or white for arts, and may vary by institution. Honors students might have special tassels or cords. Always confirm specific guidelines with your school, as practices can differ regionally or by tradition.





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.





before and after graduation graduation tassel side


In many graduation ceremonies, the tassel on a cap is worn on the right side before the graduate receives their diploma. After the ceremony or upon completing the degree, the tassel is traditionally moved to the left side to symbolize the transition from student to graduate. This custom varies by institution and culture but is common in Western traditions.





graduation cap tassel


A graduation cap tassel is a decorative cord or bunch of threads attached to the top of a mortarboard cap, worn during academic ceremonies like graduations. It symbolizes the completion of a degree and is often color-coded to represent the field of study, school, or level of achievement (e.g., bachelor's, master's, or doctoral). During the ceremony, participants typically wear the tassel on the right side initially and move it to the left after receiving their diploma, signifying the transition from student to graduate. Tassels are commonly made from silk, rayon, or synthetic materials and can be customized for personalization.





how to wear graduation cap tassel


To wear a graduation cap tassel, attach it to the button or loop on the top center of the cap. For most ceremonies, position the tassel on the right side before the degree is conferred. Once you receive your degree, move the tassel to the left side as a symbol of completion. Ensure the cap sits flat on your head with the tassel hanging straight down the chosen side.





graduation tassel side doctorate


For doctorate graduates, the tassel on a graduation cap is often worn on the left side during the ceremony, symbolizing the completion of their degree. In many U.S. traditions, this is similar to other levels of graduation where the tassel starts on the right and is moved to the left upon conferring the degree, but for doctorates, it may already be positioned on the left to denote the advanced academic achievement. The exact custom can vary by institution.





turning the tassel at graduation


Turning the tassel at graduation is a traditional ceremony in many educational systems, particularly in the United States, where graduates move the tassel on their mortarboard cap from the right side to the left side. This simple act symbolizes the completion of their degree, marking the transition from student to graduate, and is often done at the end of the ceremony after receiving a diploma.





graduation cap tassel color meaning


Graduation cap tassel colors typically represent the wearer's field of study or degree type, though meanings vary by institution. Common associations include: white for arts, letters, and humanities; gold or yellow for science and social sciences; dark blue for philosophy; light blue for education; purple for law; green for medicine; orange for engineering; drab (light brown) for business; pink for music; and red for journalism, theology, or communications. Always check with the specific school for accurate details.