graduation tassel rules
Graduation tassel rules vary by institution but generally follow these traditions in many English-speaking countries, especially the United States:
Tassels are typically worn on the right side of the mortarboard cap at the start of the ceremony to indicate student status. During the event, graduates move the tassel to the left side after receiving their diploma or as instructed by officials, symbolizing the transition to graduate status. Tassel colors often represent the school, degree field, or honors, such as gold for business or blue for education, and should match institutional guidelines. For multiple degrees, some wear separate tassels or follow specific protocols set by the school. Always check with your institution for exact rules, as variations exist.
before and after graduation graduation tassel side
Before graduation, the tassel on a graduation cap is traditionally worn on the right side. After graduation, it is moved to the left side to symbolize the completion of the degree.
why do you move your tassel from right to left
In many graduation ceremonies, especially in the United States, the tassel on a graduation cap is traditionally worn on the right side at the start of the event. Moving it to the left side signifies the completion of your degree and your official transition from student to graduate. This custom originated in American universities and is a symbolic gesture of academic achievement.
graduation cap tassel color meaning
Tassel colors for graduation caps often represent the wearer's field of study or degree type, though meanings can vary by institution. Common associations include:
- White: Arts, letters, humanities, or general studies
- Drab (light brown): Business, commerce, or accounting
- Light blue: Education
- Orange: Engineering
- Purple: Law
- Kelly green: Medicine
- Pink: Music
- Apricot: Nursing
- Golden yellow: Science
- Citron (lemon yellow): Social sciences
- Brown: Fine arts or architecture
- Dark blue: Philosophy
- Maize: Agriculture
- Scarlet: Theology or divinity
- Crimson: Journalism or communication
Always check with your specific school for exact color meanings, as they may differ.
how to put tassel on graduation cap
Hold the graduation cap with the button on top. Take the tassel and find the loop at the end of its string. Slide the loop over the button until it's secure. Adjust the tassel so it hangs straight and evenly from the center of the cap. If the loop is too tight, gently wiggle it into place without forcing it. Once attached, give it a light tug to ensure it won't come off during the ceremony.
graduation tassel rules masters degree
For a master's degree, graduation tassel rules typically follow these guidelines in many U.S. institutions:
- The tassel is worn on the left side of the mortarboard cap throughout the ceremony, as master's degrees are considered graduate-level and do not involve the traditional right-to-left movement seen in bachelor's ceremonies.
- Tassel color is often black or specific to the field of study (e.g., gold for science or business), but this varies by university or academic tradition.
- Some schools may have unique policies, such as keeping the tassel on the right initially for all graduates and moving it left upon degree conferral, so it's best to check with your institution for exact rules.
- The tassel should be attached securely to the cap and not interfere with other regalia, like the hood.
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.
how to wear graduation cap
To wear a graduation cap, start by holding the mortarboard with the pointed end facing forward. Place it on your head so that it sits flat and level, with the front edge about an inch above your eyebrows for a comfortable fit. Adjust the elastic or band inside if needed to secure it. Position the tassel on the right side before the ceremony begins. During the event, keep the cap straight and avoid tilting it. After receiving your diploma or as instructed, flip the tassel to the left side to signify completion of your degree.