graduation tassel rules
Graduation tassels are decorative cords attached to mortarboard caps, with rules varying by institution but following some common traditions in English-speaking countries like the United States.
- Tassels are typically worn on the right side of the cap before the ceremony to symbolize ongoing student status.
- During the ceremony, graduates move the tassel to the left side after receiving their diploma, hooding, or a specific cue from the presiding official, marking the transition to graduate status.
- Tassel colors often indicate the degree field or academic honors; for example, gold might represent business, while specific schools set their own color codes.
- Some institutions require tassels to be worn only on the cap and prohibit altering or adding personal decorations.
- In cases of multiple degrees or honors, additional tassels may be worn, but guidelines on their placement and order vary by school.
- Always follow the specific instructions provided by your educational institution, as local customs can differ.
why do you move your tassel from right to left
The tradition of moving the tassel from right to left during a graduation ceremony symbolizes the completion of a student's academic journey and their transition to graduate status. In many educational systems, particularly in the United States, the tassel starts on the right side to represent being a student, and moving it to the left signifies earning the degree and joining the ranks of alumni. This practice varies by institution or country but is a widely recognized rite of passage.
before and after graduation graduation tassel side
The graduation tassel is traditionally worn on the right side of the cap before the ceremony. After receiving the diploma or completing the graduation rites, it is moved to the left side to symbolize the transition from student to graduate. This custom is common in many English-speaking countries, particularly in the United States.
graduation tassel side doctorate
For doctorate graduations in many academic traditions, such as those in the United States, the tassel on the graduation cap is typically worn on the left side from the start of the ceremony. This distinguishes it from undergraduate ceremonies, where the tassel often begins on the right and is moved to the left upon degree conferral. Practices may vary by institution.
graduation cap tassel
A graduation cap tassel is a decorative cord or bunch of threads attached to the top of a mortarboard, the flat, square cap worn by graduates during commencement ceremonies. It is typically made from silk or synthetic materials and comes in various colors that often represent the wearer's academic field, degree level, or school affiliation. During the ceremony, graduates may flip the tassel from one side of the cap to the other as a symbolic gesture of completing their studies.
turning the tassel at graduation
Turning the tassel at graduation is a symbolic tradition in many educational ceremonies, especially in the United States. It involves graduates moving the tassel on their mortarboard cap from the right side to the left side, typically at the moment their degree is conferred or at the end of the ceremony. This act represents the completion of their academic journey and their official transition from student to graduate. The tradition originated in the 19th century and is a personal milestone for many, though it can vary slightly by institution or culture.
how to wear graduation cap tassel
To wear your graduation cap tassel, attach it to the button on the top center of the cap. Position the tassel on the right side for the start of the ceremony. During the event, when directed—such as after receiving your diploma—gently slide the tassel to the left side to signify completion of your degree. Ensure the cap is worn flat on your head with the tassel hanging straight.
graduation cap tassel color meaning
The color of a graduation cap tassel typically represents the wearer's field of study or academic achievement, though meanings can vary by institution. Common tassel color meanings include:
- Black: General or unspecified fields, often used for bachelor's degrees.
- White: Arts, humanities, letters, or liberal arts.
- Gold or yellow: Science, mathematics, or sometimes business administration.
- Drab (light brown): Business, accounting, or commerce.
- Light blue: Education or counseling.
- Orange: Engineering.
- Purple: Law, government, or philosophy.
- Green: Medicine, pharmacy, or health sciences.
- Pink: Music or fine arts.
- Maize (yellowish): Agriculture.
- Dark blue: Philosophy or high honors.
- Scarlet: Theology or divinity.
Always check with your specific school, as customs may differ.