Graduation cords are ceremonial accessories worn by students during their graduation ceremonies to signify academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, or membership in honor societies. They are rope-like strands, typically around 60 to 70 inches long and about a quarter of an inch in diameter, worn draped around the neck so the tassels hang down the front of the gown
. The cords come in various colors, each representing different honors, disciplines, or accomplishments. For example:
- Gold cords often signify high academic achievement or graduating with honors.
- Silver cords may represent community service or achievements in medical or agricultural sciences.
- Red cords can denote accomplishments in the arts or specific academic subjects.
- Blue cords are frequently associated with honor societies or social sciences.
- Green cords sometimes indicate achievements in environmental sciences.
- Purple, pink, black, and white cords each have meanings tied to particular fields or honors
Some cords are braided or twisted in multiple colors to represent combined honors or memberships in multidisciplinary societies
. The purpose of graduation cords is to visually distinguish graduates who have earned special recognition and to celebrate their dedication and accomplishments throughout their academic journey. They serve as lasting mementos of the graduate's achievements
