graduation tassel rules


Graduation tassel rules typically require wearing the tassel on the right side of the mortarboard cap at the beginning of the ceremony. For most undergraduate events, graduates move it to the left side after receiving their diploma to symbolize completing their degree. Tassel colors often indicate the field of study, such as gold for science or white for arts, and may vary by institution. Honors students might have special tassels or cords. Always confirm specific guidelines with your school, as practices can differ regionally or by tradition.





before and after graduation graduation tassel side


In graduation ceremonies, the tassel on a cap is traditionally worn on the right side before the event to symbolize that the student has not yet completed their degree. After officially graduating—often right after receiving the diploma—the tassel is moved to the left side to represent the achievement of the degree. This custom is common in many educational traditions, particularly in the United States.





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.





why do you move your tassel from right to left


The tradition of moving the graduation tassel from right to left during a ceremony symbolizes the transition from student to graduate. It signifies the completion of academic studies and the official conferral of the degree, a custom commonly practiced in the United States and other countries following similar academic traditions.





graduation tassel side doctorate


For a doctorate graduation in academic traditions, the tassel on the cap is typically worn on the left side from the beginning, symbolizing the higher level of achievement. This contrasts with bachelor's degrees, where the tassel starts on the right and is moved to the left upon completion. Variations may exist based on specific institutional customs.





how to wear graduation cap tassel


To wear a graduation cap tassel, attach it to the button or loop on the top center of the cap. For most ceremonies, position the tassel on the right side before the degree is conferred. Once you receive your degree, move the tassel to the left side as a symbol of completion. Ensure the cap sits flat on your head with the tassel hanging straight down the chosen side.





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. Common associations include:

Black for arts and sciences, blue for education or philosophy, gold for science or engineering, green for medicine, orange for engineering, purple for law, red for journalism or theology, white for arts and letters, and yellow for business or social sciences. Some schools use other colors for specific programs, such as pink for music or brown for fine arts. Always check with the specific university for exact interpretations.





turning of the tassel script


Ladies and gentlemen, it is now time for the turning of the tassel. Graduates, as a symbol of your academic achievement and transition to the next chapter of your lives, please turn your tassels from the right side to the left side. Congratulations, you have successfully completed your studies.