graduation tassel rules
Graduation tassel rules generally involve wearing the tassel on the right side of the mortarboard cap at the start of the ceremony. After receiving the diploma, it is traditionally moved to the left side to signify the completion of the degree or program. Tassel colors are often standardized by institution or field of study, such as gold for business or blue for education, but exact colors vary. These customs are most common in the United States and may differ by school or country. Always check with your specific institution for any unique guidelines.
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.
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.
how to wear graduation cap tassel
To wear a graduation cap tassel, attach it to the button or loop on the top center of the cap. For most ceremonies, position the tassel on the right side before the degree is conferred. Once you receive your degree, move the tassel to the left side as a symbol of completion. Ensure the cap sits flat on your head with the tassel hanging straight down the chosen side.
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.
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.
turning of the tassel script
Graduates, please stand and take hold of your tassels. As we celebrate this milestone, turn your tassel from the right side to the left side of your cap, symbolizing the completion of your academic journey and your transition into the world beyond. Congratulations on your achievement.
graduation tassel rules masters degree
For a master's degree, graduation tassel rules generally follow guidelines from the American Council on Education (ACE) and can vary by institution. The tassel is typically worn on the left side of the mortarboard cap throughout the ceremony, unlike undergraduate tassels which are moved from right to left upon graduation.
Tassel colors often represent the field of study, with common ACE standards including:
- Black for most general master's degrees
- Drab (light brown) for business
- White for arts and letters
- Golden yellow for science
- Light blue for education
- Purple for law or philosophy
Always check with your specific university, as some schools use custom colors or additional rules, such as prohibiting personalization of tassels. Tassels are usually provided by the institution or purchased from approved vendors to ensure compliance.