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 many graduation ceremonies, the tassel on a cap is worn on the right side before the graduate receives their diploma. After the ceremony or upon completing the degree, the tassel is traditionally moved to the left side to symbolize the transition from student to graduate. This custom varies by institution and culture but is common in Western traditions.
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
Moving the tassel from right to left on a graduation cap is a tradition in many academic ceremonies, particularly in the United States, symbolizing the completion of a degree. Before the ceremony, the tassel starts on the right side, representing student status. After receiving the diploma or at a designated moment, moving it to the left signifies the transition to graduate or alumnus status. This custom originated in the 19th century and is a visual marker of academic achievement.
graduation cap tassel
A graduation cap tassel is a decorative cord or bunch of threads attached to the top of a mortarboard cap, worn during academic ceremonies like graduations. It symbolizes the completion of a degree and is often color-coded to represent the field of study, school, or level of achievement (e.g., bachelor's, master's, or doctoral). During the ceremony, participants typically wear the tassel on the right side initially and move it to the left after receiving their diploma, signifying the transition from student to graduate. Tassels are commonly made from silk, rayon, or synthetic materials and can be customized for personalization.
how to wear graduation cap tassel
To wear a graduation cap tassel, start by placing the cap on your head with the front edge about an inch above your eyebrows, ensuring it's level and comfortable. Attach the tassel to the button on top of the cap, letting it hang on the right side for most ceremonies, especially for undergraduates. Keep the tassel straight and untangled. If your school tradition involves moving it, wait for the signal during the ceremony and slide it to the left side with your right hand to signify degree completion. Adjust as needed for a neat appearance.
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:
- White: Arts, humanities, letters
- Gold or yellow: Science, engineering
- Drab (light brown): Business administration
- Light blue: Education
- Orange: Engineering (in some systems)
- Purple: Law
- Green: Medicine
- Pink: Music
- Dark blue: Philosophy
- Maize: Agriculture
- Scarlet: Theology
Always check with the specific school for accurate interpretations, as standards differ.
turning of the tassel script
Speaker: "Graduates, as a symbol of your achievement, please turn your tassel from the right side to the left."
Graduates: (simultaneously turn tassels)
Speaker: "Congratulations, you are now officially alumni."