Unraveling the Mystique: A Guide to Graduation Cap Tassels

12/26/2024

Graduation tassel rules


The graduation tassel!

Traditionally, the graduation tassel is a symbol of academic achievement and has its own set of rules and etiquette. Here are some common guidelines:

1. **Tassel color**: The tassel color often represents the degree level or field of study. For example:
* Bachelor's degree: White, gold, or silver
* Master's degree: Purple or blue
* Doctoral degree: Red or black
2. **Wearing the tassel**: Typically, graduates wear their tassel on the right side of their mortarboard cap until they have completed all their graduation requirements.
3. **Tassel turning ceremony**: As part of the commencement ceremony, graduates turn their tassels from one side to the other (usually from right to left) to symbolize their transition from student to alumnus/alumna.
4. **Timing**: The tassel turning usually occurs during the ceremony, often just before the degree is officially conferred or after the graduate's name is called to receive their diploma.
5. **Etiquette**: When turning your tassel, it's customary to do so with a gentle, sweeping motion, rather than yanking it across. This is considered a respectful and dignified way to mark this milestone moment.

Some colleges or universities might have specific rules about tassel colors, wearing, or turning, so it's always a good idea to check with your institution for any unique traditions or guidelines they may have.

Now that you know the basic rules of graduation tassel etiquette, go forth and proudly wear your tassel (on the correct side, of course!) as you celebrate this momentous occasion!


Which way does the tassel go when you graduate college


A great tradition!

When graduating from college, the tassel on your cap traditionally goes to the right side. This is a long-standing tradition that dates back to the 12th century.

According to various sources, including the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), the origin of wearing the tassel to the right side is attributed to the following:

1. In the early days of education, only those who had completed their studies were allowed to wear a mortarboard cap with a tassel. The tassel was worn to the right side as a symbol of completion and achievement.
2. Over time, the tradition evolved to associate the tassel's position with the degree level. For example:
* A bachelor's degree candidate would wear the tassel on the left side, indicating they had just started their educational journey.
* As they completed their studies and earned a master's or higher degree, the tassel would be moved to the right side, signifying completion and achievement.

Nowadays, the tradition of wearing the tassel to the right side is widely accepted across many countries, including the United States. It's a small but meaningful gesture that acknowledges one's academic accomplishment.

So, when you graduate from college, don't forget to wear your tassel proudly on the right side!


Before and after graduation graduation tassel side


In the tradition of academic regalia, the tassel on a mortarboard cap typically hangs on one side or the other. The side it hangs from indicates the student's status:

**Before Graduation:** The tassel is worn on the **right** side (or the "student" side) while pursuing a degree.

**After Graduation:** The tassel is moved to the **left** side (or the "alumni" side) upon completion of the degree requirements. This signifies that the individual has earned their degree and is now an alumnus or alumna of the institution.

So, to summarize:

* Right side: Student (before graduation)
* Left side: Alumnus/Alumna (after graduation)


Which side does the tassel go on for master's


The age-old question: which side does the tassel go on for a Master's degree?

Traditionally, the answer depends on the institution and the type of degree. Here are some common guidelines:

1. **MIT and Harvard**: For these two prestigious institutions, the tassel goes to the right side.
2. **Stanford University**: At Stanford, the tassel goes to the left side.
3. **Most other universities**: For most other universities, the tassel typically goes to the right side.

However, it's essential to note that some institutions might have their own specific traditions or guidelines. So, if you're unsure which side to wear your tassel on for a Master's degree at a particular university, I recommend checking with the institution directly or consulting with a departmental administrator or academic advisor.

Remember, there's no one-size-fits-all answer here – it all depends on the specific institution and its traditions!


What side does the tassel go on for doctorate


The tradition of wearing the academic tassel on the left or right side of your mortarboard cap is a common debate, especially among graduate students.

In the United States, there are two prevailing traditions:

1. **Left side:** In some universities and institutions, it's customary to wear the tassel on the left side for bachelor's degrees (e.g., BA, BS) and the right side for master's degrees (e.g., MA, MS). This is because a master's degree is considered a higher level of education, so the tassel moves to the right.
2. **Right side:** In other universities and institutions, particularly those with strong academic traditions or specific departmental customs, it's common to wear the tassel on the right side for all degrees, including bachelor's, master's, and doctorates (e.g., PhD).

For a doctorate, such as a PhD:

* Some institutions follow the "left side" tradition mentioned above, where the tassel remains on the left side.
* Others might follow the "right side" tradition, moving the tassel to the right side for all graduate degrees, including PhDs.

It's essential to check with your university or department to determine their specific guidelines and customs regarding the placement of the tassel. After all, you want to ensure you're following proper protocol during your graduation ceremony!


How to wear graduation cap tassel


Congratulations on your upcoming graduation!

Wearing a graduation cap and tassel can seem intimidating, but don't worry, I've got you covered. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to wear a graduation cap and tassel like a pro:

**The Cap:**

1. **Hold the cap:** Hold the graduation cap by the headband, with the front of the cap facing upwards.
2. **Place the cap:** Position the cap on your head, aligning it with the center of your forehead. Make sure the cap is sitting comfortably and not too tight or loose.
3. **Adjust the headband:** Gently adjust the headband to fit snugly around your head. You can also use a bit of hair spray or hairspray to keep your hair in place under the cap.

**The Tassel:**

1. **Identify the correct side:** Check with your school or institution to determine which side of the tassel is correct for your degree or major (e.g., left side for Bachelor's, right side for Master's).
2. **Hang the tassel:** Attach the tassel to the cap by hooking it onto the small loop or attachment provided on the cap. Make sure the tassel is hanging evenly and not too long or short.
3. **Adjust the length:** If needed, adjust the length of the tassel to ensure it's even with the bottom of the cap.

**Tips and Reminders:**

* Make sure your cap and tassel are securely attached before walking across the stage.
* Keep your cap level and not tilted too far forward or backward.
* Practice wearing your cap and tassel beforehand to get a feel for how they look and feel.
* Take good care of your graduation regalia, as it's a keepsake that can be treasured for years to come.

There you have it! With these simple steps, you'll be rocking your graduation cap and tassel like a pro.


Turning of the tassel Script


The Turning Point script!


Graduation cap tassel color meaning


The graduation cap tassel is a significant part of academic regalia, and the color of the tassel has specific meanings. Here's a breakdown:

**Traditional Colors:**

* **Black**: Denotes that the student has completed their undergraduate degree (Bachelor's).
* **Gold**: Indicates that the student has completed their master's or doctoral degree (Master's or Doctoral).

**Newer Traditions:**

* **Green**: Some institutions use green tassels to signify students who have completed a graduate program in fields like education, environmental science, or sustainability.
* **Purple**: In some cases, purple tassels are used for students graduating with honors or distinction.

**Additional Colors:**

* **White**: Some schools use white tassels to represent the light of knowledge or the pursuit of wisdom.
* **Red**: May be used to signify a student's achievement in a particular field, such as engineering or business.

**Tassel Placement:**

After graduation, students are supposed to flip their tassel from one side (usually the right) to the other as a symbol of their transition from student to alumnus/alumna. This act is often seen as a rite of passage and a celebration of their academic accomplishment.

Keep in mind that specific traditions may vary between institutions, so it's always best to check with your school or university for their unique tassel color meanings and customs.