graduation tassel rules
Graduation tassel rules generally apply to academic ceremonies in the United States and vary by institution, but common practices include:
Tassels are worn on the right side of the mortarboard cap at the beginning of the ceremony to symbolize that the graduate has not yet completed their degree.
During the ceremony, typically after receiving the diploma or at a designated moment like the commencement speech, graduates move the tassel to the left side to indicate they have officially earned their degree.
Tassel colors often represent the field of study or school affiliation; for example, gold might signify business, while specific colors are assigned by universities.
Some schools enforce additional rules, such as prohibiting unauthorized tassel modifications or requiring them to be school-issued.
Always check with your specific institution for exact guidelines, as rules can differ.
before and after graduation graduation tassel side
In graduation ceremonies, the tassel on a cap is traditionally worn on the right side before the event to symbolize that the degree has not yet been conferred. After the ceremony, such as upon receiving the diploma, the tassel is moved to the left side to indicate that the graduate has officially completed their studies. This custom is common in many educational traditions, particularly in the United States.
graduation tassel side doctorate
For doctorate graduations, the tassel on the cap is traditionally worn on the right side at the start of the ceremony and moved to the left side after the degree is conferred, symbolizing the completion of the academic requirements. This practice is similar to other degree levels but can vary slightly by institution.
why do you move your tassel from right to left
Moving the tassel from right to left during a graduation ceremony is a traditional symbol in academic settings, particularly in the United States. For undergraduates, the tassel starts on the right side to represent that the degree has not yet been conferred. Once the graduate is officially recognized, such as by receiving a diploma or during the hooding ceremony, moving it to the left side signifies the completion of the degree and entry into the ranks of alumni. This custom varies by institution and country but is a common way to mark the transition from student to graduate.
graduation cap tassel
A graduation cap tassel is a decorative cord or string attached to the top of a mortarboard cap worn by graduates during commencement ceremonies. It typically features a small, ornamental knot or bead at the end and is often flipped from one side of the cap to the other to symbolize the completion of a degree. Tassels may vary in color to represent different fields of study or institutions.
how to wear graduation cap tassel
Place the graduation cap on your head with the flat top parallel to the ground and the front edge just above your eyebrows. Attach the tassel to the button on top of the cap, letting it hang freely. For most ceremonies, start with the tassel on the right side. Once you receive your diploma, flip the tassel over to the left side to signify graduation. Ensure the cap fits securely and adjust as needed for comfort.
graduation tassel drop
The graduation tassel drop is a traditional ritual in many academic ceremonies, particularly in the United States, where graduates move the tassel on their mortarboard cap from one side to the other—typically from right to left—after receiving their diploma. This action symbolizes the transition from student to graduate and the completion of their degree. The exact customs can vary by institution or culture, but it's a common way to mark the end of formal education.
graduation cap tassel color meaning
The color of a graduation cap tassel often represents the field of study or degree type, based on academic traditions primarily in the United States. Meanings can vary by institution, but common associations include:
- White: Typically for arts, letters, humanities, or general studies.
- Gold or yellow: Often for science, engineering, or mathematics.
- Dark blue: Usually for philosophy, political science, or education.
- Purple: Commonly for law or jurisprudence.
- Green: Frequently for medicine or pharmacy.
- Orange: Generally for engineering.
- Light blue: Often for education.
- Drab (a muted gray-brown): Typically for business or accountancy.
- Pink: Usually for music.
- Brown: Commonly for fine arts.
- Scarlet: Often for theology or divinity.
- Maize: Typically for agriculture.
- Lilac: Generally for dentistry.
- Apricot: Frequently for nursing.
Tassel colors are not universally standardized, so individuals should check with their specific school or university for exact meanings.