Before graduation, the tassel is traditionally worn on the right side of the cap for high school and undergraduate students. This placement symbolizes that the wearer is a candidate for graduation but has not yet officially graduated. During the ceremony, after receiving the diploma or when instructed, the tassel is moved to the left side to signify the transition from candidate to graduate

. For graduate students earning master's or doctoral degrees, the tassel starts and remains on the left side throughout the entire ceremony, reflecting their prior academic achievements and the advanced nature of their degree. Unlike undergraduates, they do not move the tassel during the ceremony

. In summary:

• High school and bachelor's degree candidates: Tassel on right before graduation, moved to left after diploma.
• Master's and doctoral candidates: Tassel on left before, during, and after graduation, no movement.

This tradition is widely followed in the United States and is supported by academic dress codes, symbolizing the important milestone of graduation