Best Graduation Gift Ideas For High School & College

Ah, graduation...a time to celebrate your student’s hard work and accomplishments. Whether going into the workforce or attending college, finding the perfect gift for a graduate can be tough.

Don’t get me wrong, cash is always useful. But why not give a gift that’s a little more thoughtful? Help them get ready for the next phase in their life with our list of top gifts for high school and college graduates. 

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Gifts For High School Graduates

  1. Gas Gift Cards
    Job interviews, road trips and late night pizza runs can quickly leave your graduate driving on empty. Help fill up their tank with a gift card to a local gas station. Before purchasing, do a quick search of stations near them to make this gift convenient for use.
  2. A Tour Of The City
    If your student is attending college out of state, purchase a ticket for a sightseeing city tour. They’ll be able to learn the ins and outs of their new home while experiencing the local attractions. Tip: purchase two tickets so a friend can come along on the tour.
  3. Personalized Items
    From pillows to mugs, give your graduate a personalized gift that they can use to decorate their dorm room.
  4. Luggage
    A nice piece of luggage goes a long way for a recent grad to use on spring break and school trips. A small carry-on or weekend bag will do the trick and ease their travels.
  5. Noise Cancelling Headphones
    Dorm-living can get noisy. Help your graduate get in some quality studying time (or sleep) with noise cancelling headphones.

Gifts For College Graduates

  1. Amazon Prime Account
    Many students have an Amazon Student account which will be discontinued after graduation. Treat them to something you know they’ll enjoy - free two-day shipping, access to tv shows and unlimited music with an Amazon Prime account.  
  2. New Bedding
    Has your graduate spent the past four years on a twin bed? Surprise them with a gift card to Bed Bath & Beyond or IKEA so they can purchase sheets and a comforter or their choice.
  3. Blue Apron
    School loans and credit card bills may leave your graduate with a tight food budget. Instead of them dining nightly on Ramen noodles, give a subscription to Blue Apron, a service that delivers fresh ingredients and recipes to make home-cooked meals.
  4. Costco or Sam’s Club Membership
    Buying in bulk can cut down on costs for groceries and supplies. Purchase a year membership for your graduate to stock up on necessary household items.
  5. Clothes for Job Interviews
    New business clothes can be pricey. Grab a gift card for your graduate's favorite store to help with the expense of new interview clothes.

And when all else fails and you’re crunched for time, don’t forget about a gift card for their favorite brand. What’s the best graduation gift that you’ve received or given? Let us know in the comments below.