graduation tassel rules
Graduation tassel rules generally follow academic traditions, particularly in the United States. The tassel is attached to the mortarboard cap and worn on the right side at the beginning of the ceremony to signify the student has not yet graduated. After receiving the diploma or at a designated moment, such as the conferring of degrees, the tassel is moved to the left side to indicate the completion of the degree. Tassel colors often represent the field of study or institution, as determined by school policies. Specific rules may vary by school or country, so it's advisable to check with the institution for exact guidelines.
before and after graduation graduation tassel side
During graduation ceremonies, the tassel on a student's cap is traditionally worn on the right side before the ceremony or before receiving the diploma, symbolizing ongoing student status. After graduating or crossing the stage, it is moved to the left side to signify the completion of studies and the transition to graduate status. This custom is common in many educational traditions, 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 beginning of the ceremony. This differs from bachelor's degrees, where the tassel often starts on the right and is moved to the left upon degree conferral, symbolizing the completion of requirements. For doctorates, the left-side placement reflects the wearer's attainment of a higher-level degree. Practices may vary by institution or country, so it's advisable to check specific guidelines from the awarding university.
why do you move your tassel from right to left
Moving the tassel from right to left during a graduation ceremony is a traditional academic custom, primarily in the United States and some other countries. It symbolizes the transition from being a student to becoming a graduate. Initially, the tassel is worn on the right side to represent unfinished studies. Once the degree is conferred, moving it to the left side signifies completion and entry into the alumni community. This practice originated in the late 19th century and varies slightly by institution or culture.
how to wear graduation cap tassel
To wear a graduation cap tassel, place the cap on your head so it's level and the front edge sits just above your eyebrows. Attach the tassel to the center button or loop on the top of the cap. For most ceremonies, start with the tassel hanging on the right side. Once you've received your degree or as directed by your school, slide the tassel over to the left side to symbolize the completion of your studies.
turning the tassel at graduation
Turning the tassel at graduation is a traditional ceremony in many English-speaking countries, particularly in the United States, where graduates wear a cap with a dangling tassel. During the event, students start with the tassel on the right side of the cap. At a key moment—often right after receiving their diploma or as directed by the ceremony—they move the tassel to the left side. This simple act symbolizes the completion of their degree and their official transition from student to graduate.
graduation cap tassel color meaning
The color of a graduation cap tassel often signifies the wearer's field of study or degree type, though meanings can vary by institution. Common tassel color meanings include:
- White: Arts, letters, humanities
- Light blue: Education
- Dark blue: Philosophy
- Golden yellow or maize: Science, agriculture
- Drab (light brown): Business
- Orange: Engineering
- Purple: Law
- Green: Medicine
- Pink: Music
- Citron (yellowish): Social sciences
- Blue-violet: Architecture
Tassels may also indicate degree levels in some cases, such as bachelor's (worn on one side then flipped), master's, or doctoral, but this is less standardized. Always check with your specific school for exact interpretations.
graduation tassel 2025
A graduation tassel for 2025 is a decorative cord, typically made of silk or yarn, that attaches to the top of a mortarboard cap worn by graduates. It symbolizes the completion of academic studies and often includes a charm or engraving with the year "2025" to represent the graduating class. Tassels come in various colors, which may indicate the school, degree, or field of study—for example, gold for business or blue for education. During the ceremony, the tassel is usually worn on the right side initially and flipped to the left to signify official graduation. These can be purchased from school stores, online retailers like Amazon, or customization services, with prices ranging from $5 to $20 depending on material and design.