graduation tassel rules
Graduation tassel rules vary by institution, but common practices include wearing the tassel on the right side of the cap at the start of the ceremony to symbolize student status. After receiving a diploma or at a designated moment, such as the conferral of degrees, graduates move it to the left side to signify completion. Tassel colors are often assigned based on academic field, degree level, or honors— for example, gold for business or red for journalism— and should match the school's guidelines. Some schools require tassels to be provided by the institution, while others allow personalization, but they must adhere to dress code policies to avoid distractions during the event. Always check with your specific college or university for exact rules.
why do you move your tassel from right to left
The tradition of moving the graduation tassel from right to left during a commencement ceremony symbolizes the completion of your academic studies and your official transition to being a graduate. In many U.S. institutions, the tassel starts on the right side to represent your student status, and moving it to the left signifies that you've earned your degree and are now an alumnus or alumna. This custom varies by country and school, but it's a widely recognized ritual in American graduations.
before and after graduation graduation tassel side
In graduation ceremonies, the tassel on a cap is traditionally worn on the right side before the ceremony to symbolize ongoing studies. After officially graduating, such as when the degree is conferred, the tassel is flipped to the left side to represent the completion of academic requirements. This custom varies by institution and country but is common in many English-speaking traditions.
how to wear graduation cap tassel
To wear your graduation cap tassel, start by attaching it to the button at the top center of the cap. Position the tassel on the right side before the ceremony begins. During the event, after receiving your diploma or at the designated moment, switch the tassel to the left side to indicate completion of your degree. Ensure the cap is worn flat on your head with the tassel hanging freely and not tangled.
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 with a dangling tassel, typically starting on the right side. At a designated moment—often right after receiving their diploma or during a speech—they flip the tassel to the left side, representing the transition from student to graduate. This simple act is a rite of passage, signifying academic achievement and readiness for the next phase of life.
graduation tassel side doctorate
For a doctorate graduation ceremony, the tassel on the mortarboard cap is traditionally worn on the right side at the start of the event. After the degree is conferred, it is moved to the left side to symbolize the completion of studies and the transition to graduate status. This practice is common in many English-speaking countries, such as the United States, but can vary by institution or cultural traditions. Tassel color often indicates the field of study, with doctoral tassels sometimes in gold or the school's colors.
graduation cap tassel color meaning
Graduation cap tassel colors often signify the field of study or degree type, though meanings can vary by institution. Common associations include:
Gold or yellow for business, accounting, or economics
White for arts, humanities, or general studies
Red for journalism, communications, or theology
Light blue for education
Dark blue for philosophy
Green for medicine or pharmacy
Purple for law or government
Orange for engineering
Pink for music
Brown for fine arts or architecture
Black for business administration or liberal arts
Always check with your specific school for exact interpretations.
graduation tassel near me
To find a graduation tassel near you, use search engines like Google by typing "graduation tassel near me" to locate nearby stores such as Walmart, Target, Party City, or specialty shops like those in malls. Online retailers like Amazon or Etsy may offer options with local pickup. Check school supply stores, university bookstores, or graduation event planners in your area for availability. Prices typically range from $5 to $20 depending on material and style.