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 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 tassel side doctorate


For doctoral graduations in English-speaking traditions, such as in the United States, the tassel on the graduation cap is typically worn on the left side throughout the ceremony. This differs from bachelor's degrees, where the tassel often starts on the right and is moved to the left upon conferral. However, practices can vary by institution or country. Tassel colors for doctorates are usually gold or discipline-specific, but the side remains a symbolic element of academic achievement.





turning the tassel at graduation


Turning the tassel at graduation is a traditional ceremony in many educational institutions, particularly in the United States, where graduates move the tassel on their mortarboard cap from the right side to the left side. This simple act symbolizes the completion of their academic program and their transition from student to graduate. It typically occurs at the end of the commencement ceremony, often after receiving a diploma or as directed by the presiding official.





how to wear graduation cap tassel


To wear a graduation cap tassel, place the cap on your head with the mortarboard flat and the front edge aligned with your forehead. Hang the tassel over the right side of the cap at the start of the ceremony. Once your degree is conferred or as instructed by the event coordinator, slide the tassel to the left side to signify graduation. Ensure the tassel is secure and doesn't obstruct your view. For most ceremonies, use a standard black or school-colored tassel, and if it has a year charm, position it facing forward.





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.





graduation cap headband


A graduation cap headband is a fashion accessory that features a small, decorative version of a traditional graduation cap (like a mortarboard) attached to a headband. It's commonly used for graduation ceremonies, themed parties, photo props, or as a playful way to celebrate milestones. Materials might include fabric, plastic, or foam for the cap, with elastic or adjustable bands for comfort. These items are popular for adding a fun, academic touch to outfits without the bulk of a full cap.