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


Before graduation, the tassel on a graduation cap is typically worn on the right side, symbolizing that the student has not yet completed their studies. After graduation, the tassel is moved to the left side to signify the achievement of the degree and the transition to graduate status. This tradition varies by institution but is common in many educational ceremonies.





graduation tassel side doctorate


For a doctorate graduation in English-speaking traditions, such as in the United States, the tassel on the academic cap is typically worn on the left side. This signifies that the degree has been conferred, distinguishing it from undergraduate ceremonies where the tassel starts on the right and is moved to the left upon completion. However, customs can vary by institution, so it's advisable to check specific university guidelines.





why do you move your tassel from right to left


The tradition of moving the graduation tassel from the right side to the left during a ceremony symbolizes the completion of your academic studies and your official transition from student to graduate. 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


Wear the tassel attached to the button on the top of your graduation cap, positioning it to hang on the right side at the start of the ceremony. For most traditions, move it to the left side after receiving your diploma or being conferred your degree. Ensure the cap is worn flat on your head with the mortarboard parallel to the ground.





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.





turning of the tassel script


Graduates, please stand and take hold of your tassels. As we celebrate this milestone, turn your tassel from the right side to the left side of your cap, symbolizing the completion of your academic journey and your transition into the world beyond. Congratulations on your achievement.