How Many Tassels to Wear at High School Graduation?

Graduation marks the culmination of years of hard work and dedication, and the tassel on your cap is a symbol of your achievement. But how do you know how many tassels to wear? The answer may surprise you.

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Table of Contents

Unraveling the Tassel Tradition

The tradition of wearing tassels at graduation dates back to the 14th century when universities in Europe awarded doctoral degrees with tasseled hoods. The number of tassels represented the scholar’s rank within the university hierarchy. Over time, the tassel became a symbol of academic achievement and was adopted by high schools in the United States.

Leftward and Rightward Significance

In the early days, the tassel was worn on the right side of the cap to signify that the graduate was an undergraduate. After completing graduate or professional studies, the tassel was moved to the left side. This tradition continues today, with graduates wearing their tassel on the:

Right side: For associate’s, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees
Left side: For doctoral and professional degrees

Determining the Number of Tassels

The number of tassels you wear at graduation typically depends on your degree:

Associate’s degree: One tassel
Bachelor’s degree: Two tassels
Master’s degree: Three tassels
Doctoral degree: Four tassels
Professional degree (e.g., MD, JD): Five tassels

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Expert Advice and Tips

To ensure you have the correct number of tassels on your graduation cap, consider the following tips:

Check with your school’s administration or guidance counselor
Consult your graduation regalia supplier
Ask fellow graduates or alumni in your field

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FAQs

Q: Can I wear multiple tassels if I have earned degrees from different levels?

A: Yes, you can wear all the tassels for the degrees you have earned.

Q: What if I don’t have enough tassels for all my degrees?

A: Contact your graduation regalia supplier to purchase additional tassels.

Q: Can I use a different colored tassel?

A: While most schools have specific tassel colors, there may be some flexibility. Contact your school’s administration to inquire.

Conclusion

The tassel on your graduation cap is a symbol of your hard work and academic achievement. By understanding the tradition and guidelines surrounding the number of tassels to wear, you can ensure that you graduate adorned with the correct tassel configuration. Embrace this milestone with pride and bask in the recognition of your well-deserved success.