graduation tassel rules
Graduation tassels are traditionally worn on the right side of the mortarboard cap at the start of the ceremony. During the event, graduates typically move the tassel to the left side after receiving their diploma or at a designated moment, symbolizing the completion of their studies. Tassel colors may vary by institution to represent specific degrees, honors, or fields of study, but wearing rules are often set by the school or university organizing the event. Always check with your specific institution for any additional guidelines, as practices can differ.
before and after graduation graduation tassel side
In graduation ceremonies, the tassel on a cap is traditionally worn on the right side before the official conferral of the degree, symbolizing the student status. After graduation, the tassel is moved to the left side to represent the completion of studies and the transition to graduate status. This custom varies by institution and culture but is common in many English-speaking countries.
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.
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 put tassel on graduation cap
Take the tassel and locate the small loop or string attached to it. Find the button or loop in the center of the graduation cap's top. Slip the tassel's loop over the button, then pull it gently to secure it in place. Adjust the tassel so it hangs straight and evenly from the cap. If needed, flip the tassel to the correct side for your ceremony tradition.
graduation tassel rules masters degree
For a master's degree, graduation tassel rules generally follow guidelines from the American Council on Education (ACE) and can vary by institution. The tassel is typically worn on the left side of the mortarboard cap throughout the ceremony, unlike undergraduate tassels which are moved from right to left upon graduation.
Tassel colors often represent the field of study, with common ACE standards including:
- Black for most general master's degrees
- Drab (light brown) for business
- White for arts and letters
- Golden yellow for science
- Light blue for education
- Purple for law or philosophy
Always check with your specific university, as some schools use custom colors or additional rules, such as prohibiting personalization of tassels. Tassels are usually provided by the institution or purchased from approved vendors to ensure compliance.
turning the tassel at graduation
Turning the tassel at graduation is a traditional ceremony in many English-speaking countries, particularly in the United States, where graduates move the tassel on their mortarboard cap from the right side to the left side. This act symbolizes the transition from student to graduate, marking the official completion of their degree. It typically occurs at the end of the commencement ceremony, often after receiving a diploma or hearing a final announcement.
how to wear graduation cap
To wear a graduation cap, start by holding the mortarboard with the pointed end facing forward. Place it on your head so that it sits flat and level, with the front edge about an inch above your eyebrows for a comfortable fit. Adjust the elastic or band inside if needed to secure it. Position the tassel on the right side before the ceremony begins. During the event, keep the cap straight and avoid tilting it. After receiving your diploma or as instructed, flip the tassel to the left side to signify completion of your degree.