graduation tassel rules


Graduation tassel rules vary by institution but generally include wearing the tassel on the right side of the cap at the start of the ceremony. After receiving the diploma, participants move it to the left side to symbolize the completion of their degree. Tassels are often color-coded to represent the field of study, such as gold for business or blue for education, and some schools require specific colors or additional honors cords for distinctions like cum laude. Always check with your school for any local variations.





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.





why do you move your tassel from right to left


Moving the tassel from right to left on a graduation cap is a tradition in many academic ceremonies, particularly in the United States, symbolizing the completion of a degree. Before the ceremony, the tassel starts on the right side, representing student status. After receiving the diploma or at a designated moment, moving it to the left signifies the transition to graduate or alumnus status. This custom originated in the 19th century and is a visual marker of academic achievement.





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.





what side does tassel go on for graduation pictures


For graduation pictures in the US, the tassel on a cap is traditionally worn on the right side before the ceremony and moved to the left side after receiving your diploma, symbolizing the completion of your studies. If the picture is meant to represent the pre-ceremony moment, keep it on the right; for post-ceremony, use the left. Always check with your school for any specific traditions.





tassel graduation


A graduation tassel is a decorative cord attached to the mortarboard cap worn by graduates during commencement ceremonies, commonly in educational traditions like those in the United States and other English-speaking countries. It symbolizes academic achievement and is often color-coded to represent the graduate's field of study, institution, or degree level—for example, gold for business or blue for education.

During the ceremony, participants typically wear the tassel on the right side of the cap initially. After receiving their diploma or as part of the event's rituals, they may flip it to the left side to signify the completion of their studies and entry into the professional world. This practice varies by institution but is a widespread custom in high school and university graduations. Tassels can also be personalized or kept as mementos.





turning of the tassel script


Ladies and gentlemen, it is now time for the turning of the tassel. Graduates, as a symbol of your academic achievement and transition to the next chapter of your lives, please turn your tassels from the right side to the left side. Congratulations, you have successfully completed your studies.





how to wear graduation cap tassel


To wear a graduation cap tassel, first place the mortarboard cap on your head so it sits flat and level, with the front edge aligned just above your eyebrows and the tassel attached to the button on top. Position the tassel to hang over the right side before the ceremony. During the event, once you receive your degree or are instructed to do so, flip the tassel to the left side to symbolize the completion of your studies. Adjust as needed for comfort, ensuring the cap stays secure.