graduation tassel rules
Graduation tassel rules typically 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 degree. Tassel colors often represent specific fields of study, honors, or institutions—for example, gold for high honors or colors like blue for education or green for medicine. These rules can vary by school, country, or event, so it's best to check with the specific institution for exact guidelines.
before and after graduation graduation tassel side
In many graduation ceremonies, the tassel on a cap is worn on the right side before the graduate receives their diploma. After the ceremony or upon completing the degree, the tassel is traditionally moved to the left side to symbolize the transition from student to graduate. This custom varies by institution and culture but is common in Western traditions.
why do you move your tassel from right to left
The tradition of moving the graduation tassel from the right side to the left during a ceremony symbolizes the completion of your academic studies and your official transition from student to graduate. This custom is common in many educational systems, particularly in the United States, and dates back to academic traditions in Europe.
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, 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. Common associations include:
Black for arts and sciences, blue for education or philosophy, gold for science or engineering, green for medicine, orange for engineering, purple for law, red for journalism or theology, white for arts and letters, and yellow for business or social sciences. Some schools use other colors for specific programs, such as pink for music or brown for fine arts. Always check with the specific university for exact interpretations.
turning the tassel at graduation
Turning the tassel at graduation is a symbolic tradition in many English-speaking countries, especially in the United States, during academic ceremonies. Graduates wear a mortarboard cap with a dangling tassel, which starts on the right side. At a key moment, often after receiving their diploma or as directed by the ceremony leader, they move the tassel to the left side. This simple act represents the completion of their studies and the transition from student to graduate.
how to wear a graduation cap
To wear a graduation cap, hold it by the sides with both hands and position it on your head so the flat top is level and parallel to the ground. The front edge should sit about an inch above your eyebrows for a comfortable fit. Ensure the tassel hangs on the right side initially. If your ceremony includes it, move the tassel to the left side after receiving your diploma to symbolize completion. Adjust as needed for a secure and straight fit throughout the event.