graduation tassel rules
Graduation tassel rules vary by institution but generally follow these traditions in many English-speaking countries, especially in the United States:
Tassels are attached to the mortarboard cap and often color-coded to represent the degree field or academic honors. For most ceremonies, wear the tassel on the right side before the event begins. During the ceremony, after receiving the diploma or at a designated moment like the commencement speech, move the tassel to the left side to signify the transition from student to graduate.
Some schools have specific variations: honors students might wear a gold tassel or keep it on the left from the start, and certain programs could require tassels on the left initially. Always check with your school for exact guidelines, as rules can differ by region or institution.
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 color meaning
The color of a graduation cap tassel typically represents the wearer's field of study or degree type, though meanings can vary by institution. Common associations include:
Black for arts and sciences, blue for education or philosophy, gold for science or engineering, green for medicine, orange for engineering, purple for law, red for journalism or theology, white for arts and letters, and yellow for business or social sciences. Some schools use other colors for specific programs, such as pink for music or brown for fine arts. Always check with the specific university for exact interpretations.
graduation tassel side doctorate
For a doctorate graduation in English-speaking traditions, such as in the United States, the tassel on the academic cap is typically worn on the left side. This signifies that the degree has been conferred, distinguishing it from undergraduate ceremonies where the tassel starts on the right and is moved to the left upon completion. However, customs can vary by institution, so it's advisable to check specific university guidelines.
how to wear graduation cap tassel
To wear a graduation cap tassel, start by placing the mortarboard cap on your head so that the front edge sits about an inch above your eyebrows and the cap is level. Attach or position the tassel on the right side of the cap, ensuring it's hanging freely without obstructing your view. For most ceremonies, keep it on the right until you're instructed to move it to the left after receiving your degree. Adjust as needed for comfort and security.
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.
turning the tassel at graduation
Turning the tassel at graduation is a traditional ceremony in many educational institutions, 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 academic program and their transition from student to graduate. It typically occurs at the end of the commencement ceremony, often after receiving a diploma or as directed by the presiding official.
how to wear graduation cap girl
To wear a graduation cap as a girl, start by brushing your hair smooth and pulling it back if it's long, such as into a low bun or ponytail, to ensure the cap sits evenly. Hold the mortarboard cap with the tassel on the right side and place it on your head so the flat top is parallel to the ground, with the front edge about an inch above your eyebrows for a comfortable fit. Adjust the elastic band or inner straps if available to secure it without tilting. Once in place, make sure the cap feels balanced—gently tap the top to check. For the ceremony, keep the tassel on the right until instructed to move it to the left side after graduating. If your hair is styled up, you may need to pin the cap lightly in place to prevent it from slipping.