graduation cap tassel left or right
The tassel on a graduation cap is traditionally worn on the right side during the ceremony for undergraduate students in many Western countries, such as the United States. It is moved to the left side after the degree is conferred, symbolizing the transition from student to graduate. For other levels like master's or doctoral degrees, it may already start on the left, depending on the institution's customs. Always check with your school for specific guidelines.
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.
why do you move your tassel from right to left
In many graduation ceremonies, especially in the United States, the tassel on a graduation cap is traditionally worn on the right side at the start of the event. Moving it to the left side signifies the completion of your degree and your official transition from student to graduate. This custom originated in American universities and is a symbolic gesture of academic achievement.
before and after graduation graduation tassel side
Before graduation, the tassel on a graduation cap is traditionally worn on the right side. After graduation, it is moved to the left side to symbolize the completion of the degree.
how to wear graduation cap tassel
To wear a graduation cap tassel, start by placing the mortarboard cap squarely on your head, with the flat part horizontal and the front point aligned with your forehead. Attach or position the tassel on the right side of the cap, hanging over the right edge, as is traditional for the beginning of most ceremonies. During the event, when instructed—often after receiving your diploma—gently slide the tassel to the left side of the cap to signify completion of your degree. Keep the cap level and secure, avoiding any tilting, for a neat appearance. If your school has specific traditions, follow those guidelines instead.
graduation cap tassel color meaning
The color of a graduation cap tassel often symbolizes the graduate's field of study or degree type, though meanings can vary by institution. Common associations include: white for arts, humanities, or general studies; gold or yellow for science, business, or accounting; red for journalism, communication, or theology; blue for education or philosophy; green for medicine or pharmacy; purple for law or government; and black as a neutral option for various fields. Always check with the specific school for exact interpretations.
turning the tassel at graduation
Turning the tassel at graduation is a traditional ceremony in many English-speaking countries, especially the United States. During the event, graduates wear caps with a dangling tassel. At a key moment—often right after receiving their diploma or at the ceremony's end—they move the tassel from the right side to the left side of the cap. This simple act symbolizes the completion of their studies and the official transition from student to graduate. The tradition dates back to the mid-20th century in American universities and has become a widely recognized rite of passage.
how to wear graduation cap girl
Style your hair neatly, such as in a bun or ponytail if it's long, to ensure the cap sits flat on your head. Hold the mortarboard cap with the tassel hanging on the right side. Place the cap on your head so the flat top is parallel to the ground and centered over your forehead. Adjust the fit by gently pressing it down or using bobby pins if it feels loose. During the ceremony, after receiving your diploma, flip the tassel from the right to the left side to signify graduation.