graduation tassel rules


Graduation tassel rules typically involve wearing the tassel on the right side of the mortarboard cap at the beginning of the ceremony. After receiving the diploma, graduates move it to the left side to symbolize the completion of their degree. Tassel colors often represent specific fields of study, honors, or institutions—for example, gold for high honors or colors like blue for education or green for medicine. These rules can vary by school, country, or event, so it's best to check with the specific institution for exact guidelines.





before and after graduation graduation tassel side


Before graduation, the graduation tassel is typically worn on the right side of the cap. After graduation, it is traditionally moved to the left side to symbolize the completion of studies.





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.





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.





turning the tassel at graduation


Turning the tassel at graduation is a traditional ceremony in many English-speaking countries, especially 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 hearing their name called, the graduate flips the tassel to the left side. This simple act symbolizes the completion of their studies and their official transition from student to graduate.





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.





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.





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 mortarboard (cap) throughout the ceremony, as Master's graduates are considered to have already achieved a higher level of education compared to bachelor's candidates.
- Tassel color is usually determined by the field of study or the degree type. Common colors include:
- Gold or maize for business or science-related fields
- White for arts and letters
- Drab for business administration
- Purple for law or humanities
- Blue for philosophy or education
However, specific colors may differ based on the university's guidelines or the hood color associated with the degree.
- In some ceremonies, the tassel might be moved from right to left as a symbolic gesture, but this is less common for Master's graduates than for bachelor's.
- Always consult your university's official guidelines, as rules can vary by school, country, or even department. For example, in the U.S., institutions like those following the American Council on Education standards often adhere to these norms, but exceptions exist.