graduation tassel rules
Graduation tassel rules generally involve wearing the tassel on the mortarboard cap during commencement ceremonies. The tassel starts on the right side to symbolize the pre-graduation status. During the ceremony, often after receiving the diploma or when instructed, it is moved to the left side to signify the completion of studies and official graduation. Tassel colors may vary by institution or degree program, such as gold for business or blue for education, and should follow the school's specific guidelines. Always confirm with your school for any local variations.
before and after graduation graduation tassel side
In graduation ceremonies, the tassel on a cap is traditionally worn on the right side before the graduate officially completes their studies or receives their diploma. After graduation, the tassel is moved to the left side to symbolize the transition from student to graduate. This custom varies slightly by institution or country but is a common practice in many English-speaking educational systems.
why do you move your tassel from right to left
Moving the tassel from right to left during a graduation ceremony is a traditional symbol in many educational systems, particularly in the United States. It represents the completion of your studies and your official transition from student to graduate. Typically, the tassel starts on the right side and is moved to the left after receiving your degree, signifying academic achievement.
graduation cap tassel
A graduation cap tassel is a decorative cord attached to the top of a mortarboard cap worn during academic ceremonies like graduations. It typically features a looped end that secures to a button on the cap, with the rest hanging down and often ending in a cluster of threads or beads. Tassels are usually made from materials like silk or rayon and come in various colors, which may signify the graduate's field of study, degree level, or school affiliation. In many traditions, the tassel starts on the right side of the cap and is flipped to the left after the graduate receives their diploma, symbolizing the transition from student to alumnus.
how to put tassel on graduation cap
Hold the graduation cap with the top facing up and locate the small button or loop in the center. Take the tassel and find the loop at the end of its string. Slip the tassel's loop over the button or through the loop on the cap. Gently pull to secure it in place. If needed, adjust the tassel so it hangs straight. For the ceremony, start with it on the right side and move it to the left after graduating.
graduation cap tassel color meaning
Graduation cap tassel colors typically represent the wearer's field of study or degree type, though meanings can vary by institution. Common associations include:
White for arts, letters, and humanities
Golden yellow for science
Orange for engineering
Light blue for education
Green for medicine or pharmacy
Purple for law
Crimson for journalism
Pink for music
Drab (light brown) for business or accountancy
Maize for agriculture
Lilac for dentistry
Olive green for pharmacy
Dark blue for philosophy
Scarlet for theology
Apricot for nursing
Brown for fine arts
Copper for economics
Lemon yellow for library science
Sage green for physical education
Gray for veterinary science
These colors are often based on guidelines from organizations like the American Council on Education, but always check with your specific school for exact meanings.
turning the tassel at graduation
Turning the tassel at graduation is a traditional ceremony in many English-speaking countries, particularly in the United States, where graduates wear a mortarboard cap with a dangling tassel. Typically, the tassel starts on the right side of the cap during the event. At a key moment—often right after receiving a diploma or at the ceremony's end—the graduate moves the tassel to the left side. This simple act symbolizes the completion of their academic journey and their official transition from student to graduate.
graduation tassel rules masters degree
Graduation tassel rules for a master's degree typically involve wearing the tassel on the left side of the cap from the start of the ceremony. Unlike bachelor's degrees, where the tassel begins on the right and is moved to the left, master's graduates generally do not move their tassel. Colors may vary by field of study (e.g., gold for science, blue for philosophy), and specific rules can differ between institutions, so check with your university for details.