graduation tassel rules


In many graduation ceremonies, particularly in the United States, the tassel on a mortarboard cap is traditionally worn on the right side at the start of the event. It is moved to the left side after receiving the diploma or at a designated moment, symbolizing the transition from student to graduate. Specific rules can vary by institution; for example, some schools require tassels to be a certain color for degrees or honors, and participants should keep the tassel secure and not fidget with it during the ceremony. Always check with your school for any local customs or exceptions.





before and after graduation graduation tassel side


Before graduation, the tassel on a graduation cap is typically worn on the right side. After graduation, it is moved to the left side as a symbolic gesture.





which side does the tassel go on for masters


For a master's degree in academic regalia, the tassel is typically worn on the left side during the graduation ceremony.





graduation tassel side doctorate


For doctoral graduations, the tassel on the cap is typically worn on the left side from the start of the ceremony. This differs from bachelor's degrees, where the tassel begins on the right and is moved to the left after conferral. The left-side position for doctorates symbolizes the highest level of academic achievement, though specific customs can vary by institution. Always check with your university for exact protocols.





why do you move your tassel from right to left


Moving the tassel from right to left during a graduation ceremony is a traditional symbol in many academic settings, particularly in the United States. It represents the transition from student to graduate, signifying the completion of your studies and the official conferral of your degree. Typically, the tassel starts on the right side and is moved to the left after receiving your diploma or at a designated moment in the ceremony.





graduation cap tassel color meaning


The color of a graduation cap tassel often signifies the wearer's field of study or degree type, though meanings can vary by institution. Common tassel color associations include:

White for arts, letters, and humanities; gold or yellow for science or business; dark blue for philosophy; light blue for education; orange for engineering; purple for law; green for medicine; pink for music; crimson for journalism; drab (light brown) for accounting or commerce; maize for agriculture; brown for fine arts; lilac for dentistry; olive green for pharmacy; apricot for nursing; scarlet for theology; copper for economics; lemon for library science; and sage green for physical education. Always check with your specific school for exact interpretations, as standards differ.





turning the tassel at graduation


Turning the tassel at graduation is a traditional ceremony in many English-speaking countries, particularly the United States, where graduates wear a mortarboard cap with a dangling tassel. During the event, participants move the tassel from the right side of the cap to the left side, symbolizing the completion of their academic degree and their official transition from student to graduate. This act is often done at a specific moment, such as after receiving a diploma or as directed by the ceremony leader.





how to wear graduation cap tassel


Place the tassel on the right side of your graduation cap, attaching it to the button or loop at the center top. Ensure it's secure and hangs straight. During the ceremony, when your name is called or as instructed by the event coordinator, carefully slide the tassel to the left side to signify the completion of your degree. Keep the cap level on your head for the best fit.