graduation tassel rules
Graduation tassels are typically worn on the right side of the mortarboard cap at the start of the ceremony. For most undergraduate ceremonies in the United States, the tassel is moved to the left side after receiving the diploma or as instructed by the school official, symbolizing the completion of the degree. Tassel colors often represent the field of study or institution, such as gold for business or blue for education, and should match the school's guidelines. For graduate degrees, some schools may start the tassel on the left or have specific rules for honors cords. Always follow your institution's specific instructions, 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 during the ceremony to symbolize the completion of the degree. This custom is common in many educational traditions, particularly in the United States.
why do you move your tassel from right to left
The tradition of moving the graduation tassel from the right side to the left side of the cap symbolizes the completion of your academic journey and your transition to being recognized as a graduate. This custom, common in many U.S. and international ceremonies, marks the moment when students officially become alumni, signifying the end of their studies and the start of their professional or next life phase. It originated from academic regalia practices in medieval Europe and was standardized by organizations like the American Council on Education.
turning the tassel at graduation
Turning the tassel at graduation is a tradition commonly observed in English-speaking countries, particularly in the United States. During the ceremony, graduates wear a cap (often called a mortarboard) with a dangling tassel. At a designated moment—usually after receiving their diploma or upon the ceremony leader's cue—they move the tassel from the right side of the cap to the left side. This symbolic act represents the completion of their academic studies and their transition into the next stage of life, such as entering the workforce or further education.
how to wear graduation cap tassel
To wear your graduation cap tassel, start by attaching it to the button or loop at the center top of the cap. Initially, position the tassel on the right side of the cap for the beginning of the ceremony. During the event, after your name is called or you receive your diploma, flip the tassel over to the left side to symbolize the completion of your degree. Ensure the cap is worn flat on your head with the tassel hanging straight down from the side. If your school has specific traditions, follow those guidelines.
graduation tassel side doctorate
In graduation ceremonies, particularly in the United States, the tassel on a doctoral candidate's mortarboard cap is traditionally worn on the right side before the degree is conferred and then moved to the left side afterward to symbolize the completion of the degree. This practice aligns with general academic traditions, though specific customs may vary by institution.
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 white for arts, letters, or humanities; gold or yellow for science; light blue for education; orange for engineering; purple for law; green for medicine; pink for music; brown for fine arts; and drab for business. Other fields like agriculture might use maize, nursing apricot, and social work citron. Always confirm with your specific school, as these conventions are not universal.
turning of the tassel script
Graduates, please stand and hold your caps steady. As a symbol of your academic achievement and transition to the next chapter of your lives, I now invite you to turn your tassels from the right side to the left side of your mortarboards. Congratulations on your graduation!