graduation tassel rules


Graduation tassel rules generally involve wearing the tassel on the right side of the mortarboard at the beginning of the ceremony. Graduates typically move it to the left side after receiving their diploma or at a designated moment, symbolizing the completion of their studies. Tassel colors often correspond to the academic field, degree level, or institution, though this varies. Specific guidelines may differ by school, country, or event, so it's best to follow the instructions provided by the organizing body.





before and after graduation graduation tassel side


In graduation ceremonies, the tassel on a cap is typically worn on the right side before the degree is conferred, symbolizing the student status. After receiving the degree, the graduate moves the tassel to the left side to represent the transition to alumni status. This custom varies by institution but is common in many English-speaking countries.





why do you move your tassel from right to left


The tradition of moving the tassel from right to left on a graduation cap symbolizes the completion of your degree and your official transition from student to graduate. In many ceremonies, particularly in the United States, the tassel starts on the right side to indicate you're still a student, and it's moved to the left after you've been conferred your diploma, marking the achievement of your academic milestone. This custom can vary by institution or country, but it's a widely recognized rite of passage.





graduation tassel side doctorate


For a doctorate degree in academic traditions, particularly in the United States, the graduation tassel is typically worn on the left side of the cap throughout the ceremony, as it signifies a higher level of achievement compared to bachelor's degrees, where the tassel starts on the right and is moved to the left upon completion. Variations may exist by institution or country.





turning the tassel at graduation


Turning the tassel at graduation is a traditional ceremony in many English-speaking countries, especially the United States, symbolizing the completion of a degree. During the event, graduates wear a cap (mortarboard) with a dangling tassel. At a designated moment—often right after receiving their diploma or as directed by the ceremony leader—they shift the tassel from the right side of the cap to the left. This simple act represents the transition from student to graduate, marking the end of their academic studies and the beginning of their professional or next life phase. It’s a personal and communal ritual that adds emotional significance to the graduation.





graduation cap tassel color meaning


Graduation cap tassel colors often represent the field of study or degree earned, though meanings can vary by institution. Common associations include: white for arts, humanities, or letters; gold or yellow for business, accounting, or economics; blue for education or philosophy; red for journalism, theology, or social sciences; green for medicine or pharmacy; orange for engineering; purple for law or architecture; and black as a general color for many degrees. Always check with the specific school for accurate interpretations.





how to wear graduation cap tassel


To wear a graduation cap tassel, start by looping the tassel's string or cord over the button at the top center of the mortarboard cap. Position the tassel on the right side of the cap for the beginning of the ceremony, as this is the traditional starting point for most undergraduate events. Ensure the cap is worn flat on your head with the tassel hanging freely and not tangled. If your ceremony includes a tradition, you may move the tassel to the left side after receiving your diploma to symbolize the completion of your studies. Adjust as needed for comfort and to follow any specific school guidelines.





turning of the tassel script


Graduates, as a symbol of your academic achievement and transition to the next chapter of your lives, please turn your tassels from the right side of your caps to the left. This simple act represents the completion of your studies and the beginning of new opportunities. Let us celebrate this milestone together.