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.
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 completion of your degree and your official transition from student to graduate. This custom is common in many educational systems, particularly in the United States, to mark the moment of achievement.
turning the tassel at graduation
Turning the tassel at graduation is a symbolic tradition in many English-speaking countries, particularly the United States, where graduates move the tassel on their mortarboard cap from the right side to the left side. This act signifies the completion of their degree and their official transition from student to graduate. It typically occurs at the end of the commencement ceremony, often after receiving a diploma or hearing a signal from the presiding official. The custom originated in the U.S. in the late 19th century as part of academic regalia and has become a widely recognized rite of passage.
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
To wear a graduation cap tassel, place the cap on your head with the mortarboard flat and the front edge aligned with your forehead. Hang the tassel over the right side of the cap at the start of the ceremony. Once your degree is conferred or as instructed by the event coordinator, slide the tassel to the left side to signify graduation. Ensure the tassel is secure and doesn't obstruct your view. For most ceremonies, use a standard black or school-colored tassel, and if it has a year charm, position it facing forward.
graduation tassel rules masters degree
For a master's degree, graduation tassel rules generally follow academic regalia traditions, which can vary by institution but often include the following:
- The tassel is typically worn on the left side of the cap throughout the entire ceremony, as master's graduates are considered to have already achieved a higher level of education. This contrasts with bachelor's degrees, where the tassel starts on the right and is moved to the left upon receiving the degree.
- Tassel color is often based on the field of study, following guidelines from organizations like the American Council on Education. Common examples include:
- Citron for library science
- Drab for business
- Gold for science
- Kelly green for medicine
- Purple for law
- White for arts and letters
Always check with your specific university or college, as rules may differ and some institutions have unique customs or require purchasing tassels from approved vendors.
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.