graduation tassel rules
Graduation tassel rules generally involve wearing the tassel on the right side of the mortarboard cap at the beginning of the ceremony. After receiving the diploma, graduates move it to the left side to symbolize the completion of their studies. Tassel colors often correspond to the degree field or school colors, such as gold for business or blue for education, though specifics vary by institution. In some cases, honor graduates may wear a separate or differently colored tassel to denote academic achievements. Always check with your school for exact guidelines, as traditions differ.
why do you move your tassel from right to left
The tradition of moving the tassel from right to left during a graduation ceremony symbolizes the transition from student to graduate. Initially, the tassel is worn on the right to represent being a student, and moving it to the left signifies the official conferral of the degree, marking the completion of academic studies. This custom originated in the United States and is commonly practiced in high school and college graduations.
before and after graduation graduation tassel side
Before graduation, the tassel on a graduation cap is traditionally worn on the right side. After receiving the diploma, it is moved to the left side to symbolize the transition from student to graduate. This custom varies by institution or culture but is common in many ceremonies.
what side does the tassel go on for doctorate
For a doctorate, the tassel on the academic cap is traditionally worn on the left side throughout the ceremony. This is the standard practice in most U.S. institutions, distinguishing it from bachelor's degrees where the tassel starts on the right and is moved to the left upon graduation. Traditions may vary by country or specific institution, so it's advisable to check with your school for any local customs.
turning the tassel at graduation
Turning the tassel at graduation is a symbolic tradition in many English-speaking countries, particularly in the United States, where graduates wear a cap with a dangling tassel. During the ceremony, participants typically start with the tassel on the right side of the cap and move it to the left side at a designated moment, often after receiving their diploma or hearing a cue from the presiding official. This simple act represents the completion of academic studies and the transition from student to graduate. It is a personal milestone that signifies achievement and readiness for the next phase of life.
how to wear graduation cap tassel
For most graduation ceremonies, wear the tassel on the right side of your mortarboard cap at the start. Position the cap on your head so it's level, with the front edge aligned just above your eyebrows and the tassel hanging freely on the right. During the ceremony, after receiving your diploma or as instructed, switch the tassel to the left side to symbolize completion. Always check your school's specific guidelines, as traditions may vary. To secure the cap, gently adjust the elastic or inner band for a comfortable fit.
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. Common associations include:
- White for arts, humanities, and letters
- Drab (light brown) for business administration
- Orange for engineering
- Light blue for education
- Purple for law
- Green for medicine
- Golden yellow for science or agriculture
- Pink for music
- Dark blue for philosophy
- Scarlet for theology or divinity
- Maize for agriculture in some systems
- Blue-violet for architecture
Always check with the specific school, as color meanings are not standardized universally.
turning of the tassel script
Graduates, by the authority vested in me, I hereby confer upon you the degrees you have earned. As a symbol of this accomplishment, please turn your tassels from the right side to the left. Congratulations!