Graduation Gifts for Every Grad
Graduation is a big milestone, and the right gift can help launch whatever comes next. We've rounded up our favorite gifts for high school and college grads, from practical dorm and first-apartment essentials to meaningful keepsakes and fun splurges. Congrats, grads!
Gift guides
From the archive · May 18, 2016Keepsake jewelry under $75 that makes a meaningful gift for your favorite grad.
From the archive · May 22, 2020The perfect graduation card for the Class of 2020
From the archive · May 19, 20217 outstanding high school or college graduation gift books: On stepping into the arena, dreaming with eyes wide open, and professional troublemaking (in the best possible way)
From the archive · May 4, 202310 creative ways to give cash or a gift card for graduation, along with your congratulations.
From the archive · May 7, 202412 inspirational books for graduation gifts, beyond Oh, the Places You'll Go!
From the archive · May 8, 202416 great high school graduation gift ideas that grads actually want. Besides cash.
More ideas
From the archive · May 18, 2008Congratulations! You've Made it Through Block Building 101
From the archive · May 24, 2014Gorgeous graduation gifts that give back, which might just be the very best kind.
From the archive · April 19, 20207 special graduation ideas during Covid-19 for your 2020 grad. They deserve it!
From the archive · March 12, 2015A YA book subscription for the teen (or bookaholic mom) who's read everything.
From the archive · April 21, 2015The perfect art teacher gifts, at least if your teachers are Mondrian fans
From the archive · February 14, 2016Custom art globes pieces kick our wanderlust up a notch
Editors' top picks
Frequently asked
How much money should you give for a graduation gift?
It really depends on your relationship to the grad and your budget. Close family often gives more than friends or neighbors, and any amount with a heartfelt note is meaningful. There's no wrong answer.
What is a good graduation gift?
Practical things for their next chapter (dorm or first-apartment essentials, quality tech accessories), meaningful keepsakes, or money toward their goals. See our graduation gift guide.
What is a good college graduation gift?
Help them launch adult life: a quality work bag, home basics for a first apartment, a professional-feeling upgrade, or a meaningful keepsake marking the milestone.
Do you bring a gift to a graduation party?
It's customary to bring a card, often with cash or a gift card, if you attend. A small gift is a kind gesture even when the invitation says "no gifts necessary."