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
The graduation tassel on a cap is traditionally worn on the right side before the ceremony and moved to the left side after graduation, symbolizing the completion of studies in many educational traditions.
why do you move your tassel from right to left
The tradition of moving the graduation cap tassel from right to left during a ceremony symbolizes the transition from student to graduate. It signifies that you have completed your academic studies and are now officially recognized as an alumnus or alumna. This custom is common in many educational systems, particularly in the United States, and dates back to academic traditions in Europe.
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.
how to wear graduation cap tassel
To wear a graduation cap tassel, start by placing the cap on your head with the front edge about an inch above your eyebrows, ensuring it's level and comfortable. Attach the tassel to the button on top of the cap, letting it hang on the right side for most ceremonies, especially for undergraduates. Keep the tassel straight and untangled. If your school tradition involves moving it, wait for the signal during the ceremony and slide it to the left side with your right hand to signify degree completion. Adjust as needed for a neat appearance.
graduation cap tassel meaning
The graduation cap tassel is a decorative cord attached to the mortarboard cap, symbolizing academic achievement and the transition to a new phase of life. Its color often represents the field of study or degree, such as gold for business, blue for philosophy, or red for journalism, though specific colors vary by institution. During the ceremony, the tassel is typically worn on the right side and moved to the left after receiving the diploma, signifying the completion of studies and entry into the professional world. In some cases, a separate honor cord or stole may accompany it to denote academic honors or affiliations.
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.
graduation tassel rules masters degree
For a master's degree, graduation tassel rules generally follow academic regalia traditions, which can vary by institution but often include the following:
- The tassel is typically worn on the left side of the cap throughout the entire ceremony, as master's graduates are considered to have already achieved a higher level of education. This contrasts with bachelor's degrees, where the tassel starts on the right and is moved to the left upon receiving the degree.
- Tassel color is often based on the field of study, following guidelines from organizations like the American Council on Education. Common examples include:
- Citron for library science
- Drab for business
- Gold for science
- Kelly green for medicine
- Purple for law
- White for arts and letters
Always check with your specific university or college, as rules may differ and some institutions have unique customs or require purchasing tassels from approved vendors.