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


Before graduation, the tassel on a graduation cap is traditionally worn on the right side. After graduation, it is moved to the left side to symbolize the completion of the degree.





why do you move your tassel from right to left


In many graduation ceremonies, especially in the United States, the tassel on a graduation cap is traditionally worn on the right side at the start of the event. Moving it to the left side signifies the completion of your degree and your official transition from student to graduate. This custom originated in American universities and is a symbolic gesture of academic achievement.





graduation tassel side doctorate


For doctorate graduations in many academic traditions, such as those in the United States, the tassel on the mortarboard is typically worn on the right side at the start of the ceremony. It is then moved to the left side after the degree is conferred, symbolizing the completion of studies. This practice is similar to that for bachelor's and master's degrees, though doctoral ceremonies often emphasize the hooding ritual as the primary element of regalia. Tassel colors may vary by institution or field of study, with gold being common for doctorates.





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.





tassel graduation


A graduation tassel is a decorative cord or fringe attached to the mortarboard cap worn by graduates during commencement ceremonies. It is often color-coded to represent the graduate's field of study, degree level, or institution. In many traditions, particularly in the United States, the tassel starts on the right side of the cap and is moved to the left after the graduate receives their diploma, symbolizing the transition from student to alumnus. This practice is part of academic regalia and varies by country and institution.





how to put tassel on graduation cap


Hold the graduation cap with the button on top. Take the tassel and find the loop at the end of its string. Slide the loop over the button until it's secure. Adjust the tassel so it hangs straight and evenly from the center of the cap. If the loop is too tight, gently wiggle it into place without forcing it. Once attached, give it a light tug to ensure it won't come off during the ceremony.





graduation tassel rules masters degree


For a master's degree graduation in the United States, the tassel is typically worn on the left side of the mortarboard cap throughout the ceremony, as graduates are considered to have already achieved their degree status. Unlike bachelor's degrees, where the tassel starts on the right and is moved to the left, no tassel movement is required for master's recipients. Tassel colors often signify the field of study, such as gold for business or science, white for arts and letters, or dark blue for philosophy, based on institutional guidelines. Always check with your specific university for any variations in local customs.