40 Clever Graduation Gifts They’ll Be Excited to Receive (2024)

FAQs

Is $40 a good graduation gift? ›

The average high school graduation money gift is between $30 and $200 dollars. The amounts can vary depending on your relationship, but these are some ranges to keep in mind: Friends and siblings: If you're giving a graduation gift to a sibling or friend, there's no set amount.

When it comes to high school graduation gifts, it's best to keep things modest. A good range to consider is: $20 - $50: For acquaintances or distant relatives. $50 - $100: For close friends and immediate family members.

There is a wide range for college graduation gifts, but the typical amount given to college graduates is between $100 and $500.

Co-worker: $20 - $30. Close friend or sibling: $25-$75. Niece, Nephew, Grandkid: : $50- $100. Son or Daughter: $100- $500.

If you decide to gift cash, here are suggested amounts: Acquaintances $10 – $25. Friends $25 – $50. Close friends and family $75 – $100.

You could get them a practical present—like a new backpack for college, or a work bag for a new job. Or you could treat 'em to a fancy perfume or piece of jewelry to make them feel super special for making it through what might've been the most stressful years of their life.

According to this piece, financial planners say the gift should be equal to approximately one month's rent or mortgage payment, somewhere around $1,000. The article said parents should give their children between $1,000 and $5,000 when they graduate from college.

Inspirational graduation quotes

You'll join the high fliers who soar to high heights.” — Dr. Seuss, “Oh, the Places You'll Go!” “Today you are You, that is truer than true. There is no one alive who is Youer than You.”

Distant relatives or friends usually send around $15 - $20, while close friends and relatives more commonly send around the $20 - $50 mark. Some families and family friends may choose to spend closer to $100 - $500, depending on their finances and the needs of the graduate.

What is a fair graduation gift? ›

Giving only $20 is fine if that is all you can afford or if your connection to the graduate is tenuous. And in an exceptional case I might go even higher than $100 if all of the stars aligned. But I think that for 99% of my gifts they fall between $25 and $100 :-) 1.

As an announcement receiver, you can always send something to the celebrant. A gift or a friendly card to surprise the graduate and their family is appropriate. If you attend the commencement ceremony, you should send a gift.

Any amount is appropriate as it is the thought that counts. If not a family member, consider $25 for a high school graduate, and $50 for a college grad. Never feel embarrassed giving ANY amount that does not fit your budget or sentiment. Inc some cases even a $10 gift card would be appropriate IMHO.

I would think you all could create a clever invitation that could read “no gifts necessary, but if you would like to contribute to reduce the student loan debt crisis, a monetary gift would be greatly appreciated.”

It's traditional to either splurge on something nice yet practical (think high-quality work wardrobe pieces or a tech device that'll help 'em out in the post-grad world) or give a sentimental gift (like a gorgeous ring, keepsake box, or photo album) to mark the end of a chapter.

It's traditional to either splurge on something nice yet practical (think high-quality work wardrobe pieces or a tech device that'll help 'em out in the post-grad world) or give a sentimental gift (like a gorgeous ring, keepsake box, or photo album) to mark the end of a chapter.

Graduation gifts are voluntary, and no one else gets to decide how much you should give. Setting a budget and sticking with it is the best way to get through graduation season without regret. Gifts don't necessarily need to be cash.

Consider the range of $10-$300.

These guidelines may be helpful: Acquaintances and friends: $10-20. Children of family friends: $20-50. Relatives (sibling, niece): $50-100.