graduation tassel rules


Graduation tassel rules vary by institution but generally follow these traditions: Tassels are worn on the right side of the cap at the start of the ceremony to signify student status. They are moved to the left side after receiving the diploma or at a designated moment, symbolizing the transition to graduate status. Tassel colors often indicate the field of study, degree level, or academic honors, such as gold for business or specific hues for cum laude. Always confirm specific rules with your school, as they may differ.





before and after graduation graduation tassel side


Before graduation, the tassel on a graduation cap is typically worn on the right side. After graduation, it is moved to the left side to symbolize the completion of the degree.





why do you move your tassel from right to left


In many graduation ceremonies, especially in the United States, the tassel on a graduation cap is traditionally worn on the right side at the start of the event. Moving it to the left side signifies the completion of your degree and your official transition from student to graduate. This custom originated in American universities and is a symbolic gesture of academic achievement.





graduation cap tassel color meaning


Graduation cap tassel colors often represent the wearer's field of study or degree type in academic ceremonies. Common meanings include:

- White: Arts, letters, humanities
- Drab (light brown): Business, accountancy
- Light blue: Education
- Orange: Engineering
- Brown: Fine arts
- Purple: Law
- Green: Medicine, health sciences
- Pink: Music
- Apricot: Nursing
- Dark blue: Philosophy
- Golden yellow: Science
- Maize: Agriculture

Colors can vary by institution, so it's best to check with the specific school for exact meanings.





how to wear graduation cap tassel


To wear a graduation cap tassel, place the mortarboard on your head with the front point facing forward and the band sitting comfortably above your ears. Attach the tassel to the top button or loop on the cap, letting it hang freely. Before the ceremony, position the tassel on the right side. During the event, keep it on the right until you are instructed to move it, typically after receiving your degree, at which point slide it to the left side for the remainder of the celebration. Ensure the tassel doesn't obstruct your view or get tangled.





turning the tassel at graduation


Turning the tassel at graduation is a traditional ceremony in many educational systems, 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 degree, marking the transition from student to graduate, and is often done at the end of the ceremony after receiving a diploma.





graduation tassel rules masters degree


For a master's degree, graduation tassel rules typically follow these guidelines in many U.S. and international institutions:

- The tassel is worn on the left side of the mortarboard (cap) throughout the ceremony, symbolizing that the wearer has already attained a higher level of education.
- Unlike bachelor's degrees, where the tassel starts on the right and is moved to the left upon conferral, master's tassels do not require moving.
- Tassels for master's degrees are often in the color associated with the specific field of study (e.g., gold for science, blue for philosophy), as designated by the institution's academic regalia standards.
- Always check with your university or graduation coordinator, as rules can vary by school or country. For example, some institutions may have additional customs or color specifications based on their traditions.





turning of the tassel script


Turning of the tassel is a traditional ritual in many English-speaking graduation ceremonies, particularly in the United States, symbolizing the transition from student to graduate. During the ceremony, graduates wear caps with tassels initially positioned on the right side. At a designated moment, often after receiving diplomas or upon a cue from the presiding official, participants move the tassel to the left side. A typical script for this part might include the officiant saying: "Graduates, as you turn your tassels to the left, you mark the end of your studies and the beginning of your future endeavors. Please turn your tassels now." This act is a simple, symbolic gesture that concludes the formal academic recognition.