graduation tassel rules
Graduation tassel rules generally involve wearing the tassel on the right side of the cap at the start of the ceremony to signify that the student has not yet officially graduated. During the ceremony, typically after receiving the diploma or at a designated moment like the commencement speech, the student moves the tassel to the left side to symbolize the completion of their degree. Tassel colors often represent the field of study, school, or honors status, such as gold for business or red for journalism, and these are determined by the institution's guidelines. Some schools may have additional rules, like restrictions on customizing tassels or specific protocols for multiple degrees. Always check with your school for exact procedures, as rules can vary.
why do you move your tassel from right to left
The tradition of moving the graduation tassel from right to left symbolizes the transition from student to graduate, marking the official conferral of the degree during the ceremony. This custom originated in the United States and is commonly practiced in academic settings to signify academic achievement.
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.
graduation cap tassel
A graduation cap tassel is a decorative cord or string attached to the top of a mortarboard cap, commonly worn during academic graduation ceremonies. It is typically made of silk, nylon, or similar materials and features a small, often colorful, knot or bead at the end. The tassel's color can represent the wearer's degree, field of study, or institution—such as gold for business or blue for philosophy. During the ceremony, it is traditionally worn on the right side and flipped to the left to symbolize the completion of studies. Tassels add a personalized and ceremonial element to the cap, reflecting academic traditions in many educational systems.
how to wear graduation cap tassel
For most graduations, start by placing the mortarboard cap on your head with the front pointing forward, ensuring it's level and secure. Hang the tassel on the right side of the cap, draping it over the right edge so it swings freely.
During the ceremony, keep the tassel on the right until instructed—typically after receiving your diploma or at a specific signal. To move it, simply reach up and slide the tassel loop or attachment from the right side to the left side of the cap.
Make sure the tassel is centered on the cap and not tangled for a neat appearance. If your cap has a button or loop, attach the tassel securely to it before the event.
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.
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.
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.