graduation tassel rules


Graduation tassel rules generally involve wearing the tassel on the right side of the cap at the start of the ceremony, then moving it to the left side after receiving the diploma to symbolize the completion of studies. Tassel colors often represent the field of study, degree level, or honors, such as gold for business or blue for education, though these vary by institution. Some schools specify additional guidelines, like restrictions on personalized tassels or requirements for certain academic achievements. Always check with your school for exact protocols.





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.





before and after graduation graduation tassel side


In graduation ceremonies, the tassel on a cap is traditionally worn on the right side before the official conferral of the degree, symbolizing the student status. After graduation, the tassel is moved to the left side to represent the completion of studies and the transition to graduate status. This custom varies by institution and culture but is common in many English-speaking countries.





what side does the tassel go on for graduation pictures


For graduation pictures in most English-speaking countries like the United States, the tassel on a cap is traditionally worn on the left side to signify that the graduate has completed their degree. If the photo is taken before the ceremony, it may be on the right side, but for standard posed pictures, left is the common practice. Always check with your school or institution for any specific traditions.





graduation cap tassel


A graduation cap tassel is a decorative cord or string attached to the top of a mortarboard cap, commonly worn during academic graduation ceremonies. It is typically made of silk, rayon, or synthetic materials and hangs from a button or loop on the cap. Tassels often come in specific colors that represent the wearer's degree, field of study, or institution—such as gold for business or blue for education. During the ceremony, the tassel is traditionally flipped from one side of the cap to the other, symbolizing the transition from student to graduate. This custom varies by country and institution but is a widespread tradition in English-speaking educational systems.





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.





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, country, or specific school traditions. Common tassel color meanings include:

Black for arts, humanities, or general studies; blue for philosophy, education, or sometimes nursing; gold or yellow for science, engineering, or business; green for medicine or pharmacy; orange for engineering or industrial arts; purple for law or jurisprudence; red for journalism, theology, or social sciences; white for arts and letters or liberal arts; and pink for music or fine arts. Always check with the specific university for exact interpretations, as customs differ.





when do you move your tassel for graduation


In most graduation ceremonies, particularly in the United States, you move your tassel from the right side of your cap to the left side after receiving your diploma or when your degree is officially conferred, symbolizing the completion of your studies. This timing can vary slightly by institution, so check with your school's guidelines.