graduation tassel rules


Graduation tassel rules generally involve wearing the tassel on the right side of the cap at the start of the ceremony to signify that the student has not yet officially graduated. During the ceremony, typically after receiving the diploma or at a designated moment like the commencement speech, the student moves the tassel to the left side to symbolize the completion of their degree. Tassel colors often represent the field of study, school, or honors status, such as gold for business or red for journalism, and these are determined by the institution's guidelines. Some schools may have additional rules, like restrictions on customizing tassels or specific protocols for multiple degrees. Always check with your school for exact procedures, as rules can vary.





before and after graduation graduation tassel side


Before graduation, the tassel on a graduation cap is traditionally worn on the right side, symbolizing that the student is still in the process of completing their studies. After the graduate receives their diploma during the ceremony, they move the tassel to the left side, representing the completion of their education and their new status as a graduate. This custom is common in many English-speaking countries, though practices can vary by institution or culture.





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.





why do you move your tassel from right to left


The tradition of moving the graduation tassel from right to left symbolizes the transition from student to graduate, marking the official conferral of the degree during the ceremony. This custom originated in the United States and is commonly practiced in academic settings to signify academic achievement.





what side does the tassel go on for graduation pictures


For graduation pictures, the tassel on the cap is traditionally worn on the right side before the ceremony and moved to the left side after receiving your diploma. If the photo is taken pre-ceremony, use the right side; for post-ceremony, use the left side. Always check with your school for any specific guidelines.





graduation cap tassel


A graduation cap tassel is a decorative cord or string, typically made of silk or synthetic material, attached to the top of a mortarboard (the flat, square cap worn during graduation ceremonies). It serves as a symbol of academic achievement and is often color-coded to represent a specific degree, field of study, or institution. During the ceremony, graduates traditionally flip the tassel from the right side to the left side of the cap to signify the completion of their studies. Tassels can vary in length, usually around 9-12 inches, and may include a small knot or bead at the end for added detail.





how to wear graduation cap tassel


Place the graduation cap on your head with the mortarboard flat and centered, ensuring the front edge aligns with your eyebrows. Attach the tassel to the button on the top of the cap if it's not already secured. Hang the tassel over the right side for the start of the ceremony. When instructed, such as after receiving your diploma, gently flip the tassel to the left side to signify completion of your degree. Adjust as needed for comfort, making sure the cap stays level throughout the event.





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.