73 Best Graduation Gifts For High School Or College Students 2023
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Graduation season is around the corner and there is likely someone you’re celebrating in the coming weeks! Whether from high school or college, a master's degree, or other post-grad programs, graduating is a grand accomplishment. It’s a significant achievement, ending a memorable chapter for many students worldwide. It also marks the beginning of a brand new stage in their lives, which is both exciting and a little stressful. But overall, it’s a celebration!
So, as they embark on this transition, what are some graduation gifts that can make them feel special and prepare them for their next step? Along with celebrating the graduates in your life, help them welcome this new part of adulthood with any of these thoughtful gifts.
From big moves to new cities, starting their first job in their career, or simply some self-care in between, we have graduation gift ideas that not only will be useful, but most importantly, make them feel celebrated on this memorable feat!
Price Reference (average price):
$ | Under $50
$$ | Between $50-$100
$$$ | Between $100-200
$$$$ | More than $200
Gift Ideas Perfect For Any High School Or College Graduation
Travel Gift Ideas
After graduation, travel plans are high–whether the graduate is enjoying their final long summer, boarding airplanes to move to their new city, or cross-country job interviews. Whatever it is, travel-related graduation gifts are thoughtful and very useful.
Image: Nordstrom
Carry-On Luggage
Beis
Price: $$$$
A piece of stylish hard-case luggage is a perfect gift for the graduate who loves to travel! It is polycarbonate, durable, and the beige color stands out from other colors (making it easy to find at the airport!). It meets the criteria to fit above in the overhead compartments to ensure smooth travel, and it even includes packing bags to keep all your clothes neat and organized!
Image: Etsy
Custom Passport Case & Tag
Luv Party
Price: $
A graduation gift that ensures they travel in style, but also decreases the chance of losing their passport and luggage. These leather passport cases and luggage tags will make the graduate feel special with this personalized gift. Choose from four different colors, too!
Image: Amazon
Mini Skincare Favorites Kit
Tatcha
Price: $$
Luxury skincare that can be brought along on the go is a gift idea to pair with others on this list! They can maintain their self-care routine wherever their destination may be. Choose a kit like this that includes a facial cleanser, toner, and moisturizer!
Image: Baggu
Laptop Case
Baggu
Price: $
Upgrade the graduate’s travel gear for their laptop or iPad. After all, they most likely have one that’s tired and used from the extensive nights of studying in cafes or the library. Choose a laptop case that is durable with a bright, memorable design!
Image: Amazon
Luxury Travel Pillow & Blanket
Blue Hills
Price: $
A thoughtful graduation gift that they can bring with them on long flights so they’re not stuck using just what's on the airplane. This combination of travel pillow and blanket is easy to pack in your carry-on and ultra soft. The graduate will love this gift if they travel often–and not just in planes, but trains or cars, too.
Image: Amazon
Airpod Adapter for Airplane
Mee
Price: $
TikTok made us buy it! For the graduate who loves their AirPods and wants to use them while watching movies on the airplane. It’s a Bluetooth audio transmitter that can also be used at the library or even the gym. This AirPod adapter is easy to use and pack!
Image: Lululemon
Everywhere Belt Bag
Lululemon
Price: $
It might be a cult favorite, but it’s also a great travel bag! You can wear it close to your chest for extra safety, but it still offers quality and style. If they are taking a gap year and embarking on solo travel, this belt bag fits the essentials and looks good, too.
Image: Amazon
Travel Makeup Organizer
BAONBY
Price: $
This travel makeup organizer has a pocket for every makeup product and tool and the square design makes it easy to pack in your backpack or luggage. The shape and multiple organized pockets make this worth the purchase!
Image: Amazon
Portable Charger
LOVELEDI
Price: $
Everyone loves a reliable portable charger–perfect for traveling or being outdoors. This portable charge guarantees to charge your phone in less than 15 minutes and will stay charged for a whole week! Pair this with other graduation gifts on this list.
Image: Urban Outfitters
Quencher 2.0 FlowState 40 oz Tumbler
Stanley
Price: $
A crowd favorite and perfect for traveling graduates! Whether they’re on the road, studying, or working at their new office, this travel mug will hold their favorite beverages.
Fashion & Beauty Gift Ideas
Fashion and beauty graduation gifts are easy to give and surely, there is something to consider for anyone! Even if they aren't big fans of makeup or clothes, these picks can be fun complementary gift ideas to combine with others on this list.
Image: Amazon
Makeup Organizer
CQ ACRYLIC
Price: $
Getting organized is always a good idea. If the graduate is a fan of makeup and beauty products, this circular makeup organizer is easy to transport and takes up minimal space.
Image: Amazon
LED Light-Up Mirror
COSMIRROR
Price: $
Such a useful beauty tool and an easy-to-pack light-up mirror! The LED lighting makes it easier to put on makeup or complete their skincare routine, and it looks great on anyone’s beauty counter.
Image: Sephora
Chance Perfume
Chanel
Price: $$
Giving a taste of luxury is one way to celebrate graduation! Choose a designer perfume that makes them feel a little more sophisticated. Consider buying the travel size, too, so they can have the sweet scent wherever they go!
Image: Sephora
Call It A Night Face Masks
Foreo
Price: $
Choose luxurious face masks that will leave their skin looking hydrated and protected. They are perfect to use after any stressful day and for some extra self-care when they need that added reminder to relax!
Image: Nordstrom
Oversized Blazer
Open Edit
Price: $$
A go-to blazer is a closet essential! Get them a new color to brighten up their wardrobe and make the graduation gift more memorable!
Image: Amazon
Air Styler
Shark Beauty
Price: $$$$
A Dyson hair-wrap alternative at half the price! This hair tool dries, straightens, curls, and waves your hair and will have the graduate feeling like they’re getting a salon treatment in the comfort of their own home.
Image: Nordstrom
Leather Moto Jacket
Sam Edelman
Price: $$
Another timeless clothing piece that will be used for years to come! Giving a durable, long-lasting leather jacket is a fashionable graduation gift they’ll love!
Image: Sephora
Lengthening Mascara
Gucci
Price: $
A designer mascara that is worth the extra buck, but also a luxurious beauty gift for a graduate! Pick one with a lengthening formula to keep their eyelashes looking naturally long. This mascara can complement other gifts on this list, too.
Image: Amazon
18pc Makeup Brushes
MAANGE
Price: $$
Experts say that makeup brushes should be changed every 1-3 years (when properly maintained), so for the graduate who enjoys using makeup, a new batch of vegan, cruelty-free makeup brushes will surely be put to use for all of their makeup looks!
Image: Sephora
Mauve Lip + Blush Set
Tower 29
Price: $$
Give the gift of vegan beauty products to upgrade their makeup routine! Pick a makeup set combo with cute lip color and matching blush.
Image: Aesop
Arrival Soap Kit
Aesop
Aesop is well-known for its hand and body products that smell spectacular. They are also a brand that makes a statement. One of their most popular products is their calming and all-natural hand soaps. Choosing one of their soap kits as a graduation gift is not just about the fragrance, but useful for the person and their home, especially if they are into body and beauty products. Aesop even creates travel kits that can be used for any upcoming trips the graduate may have.
Image: Mejuri
Duo Beaded Stacker Ring
Mejuri
Jewelry is a memorable gift and Mejuri creates stylish, chic, and affordable rings that pair well with almost any outfit and personal style. For the graduate that enjoys wearing jewelry, Mejuri rings are a tasteful and good-looking gift that can be worn every day. Whenever the person looks down at the ring, they can remember how much you care about them and how much they have accomplished!
Image: Girlfriend Collective
Float Set Bundle
Girlfriend Collective
Looking for a graduation gift idea for her? A matching sports bra and pair of leggings from Girlfriend Collective is a practical and cute gift for the athletic and active graduate.
Their workout clothing is extremely comfortable and durable, perfect to wear all day for that stylish athleisure look, during a cycling class, or even running errands in style. Each of their products are sustainably made from recycled plastic, so when you shop with them you are giving a gift to your graduate and our planet.
Home Office Gift Ideas
Graduates are moving into (or out of) dorms, starting new jobs, or building out their first home office! Make this transition a little easier and more exciting with home office gift ideas!
Image: Amazon
Ergonomic Office Chair
SILYBON STORE
Price: $$$
A quality ergonomic office chair is a gift that the graduate will put to use in their new dorm to study or even home office. An office chair will be used almost every day, so picking one that is comfortable and benefits the body is a must!
Image: Amazon
Spiral Notebooks
ALIMITOPIA
Price: $
Not just any regular notebooks, but A5 notebooks with a cute cover design. This multi-pack can be used as a journal, for different courses, or to help them stay organized throughout their work day! Complete their new home office to every detail with these notebooks.
Image: Amazon
Digital Frame
AKIMART
Price: $$
A digital photo frame that can be updated with all of their favorite photos or even art. Make it more special by uploading photos you have of them with you or close friends! This graduation gift will make their new work or living space more personal.
Image: Amazon
Apple Pencil
Apple
Price: $$$
For Apple lovers, a new Apple pencil is a perfect graduation gift they can use for digital planners, taking notes, creating designs, and for daily use on their iPad!
Image: Amazon
Standing Desk Converter
TECHORBITS
Price: $$$
As we said, ergonomics and taking care of your body is important. This standing desk converter will help create a healthy workspace!
Image: Amazon
Ring Light
SENSYNE
Price: $
A ring light is an underrated desk accessory and a valuable tool for a home office. It can be used for virtual interviews, work meetings, or online classes. Graduates will be busy with one or all of these things, so a quality ring light is a great gift choice!
Image: Amazon
Rotating Phone Holder
JOYTRIP
Price: $
This auto-tracking phone holder offers full 360° rotation. It even is ideal for recording long-distance video calls, but also to watch videos on their phone! This gadget can upgrade their home office easily!
Image: Amazon
Lumbar Support Pillow
Samsonite
Price: $
Ergonomics are important! Pair this lumbar pillow with an office chair. This pillow is also easy to carry around for any long work days outside of the office, too!
Image: Etsy
Zodiac Neon Light
Neon Mania
Price: $
If the graduate is an astrology fan, a neon light to hang in their office or new home is a cool way to make their space feel like their own.
Image: Rifle Paper Co.
Personalized Flat Notes
Rifle Paper Co.
Price: $$
A professional and classy graduation gift! Customized stationery with their full name or initials is a gift that will have all their thank-you notes or letters ready with a special touch!
Image: Amazon
Standing Adjustable Desk
FEZIBO
Finding a stable and adjustable standing desk can be the perfect graduation gift, especially with remote working becoming the “new normal.” The standing desk is practical for the studious, college grad that is in the process of more courses to obtain their Master’s, Ph.D., or other post-grad degrees. If not, working from home with more comfort is a thoughtful gesture for any recipient.
Image: Amazon
Non-Dated Monthly Planner
“New planner, who dis?” A planner is a necessary gift, especially if the person is about to embark on a new chapter and enjoys getting organized. For example, it could be their first job out of college or preparing for a new year of intense courses. You can choose from various planners that are unique to the college graduate, such as size, color, style, and format. Many planners allow you to fill in the dates, so you’re not obligated to use the planner right away.
Tech Gift Ideas
When it comes to grad gifts, nothing is going to beat a great smart home gadget or electronic for your tech-savvy graduate. Whether this is a high school graduation gift for a student headed off to college, or a college grad upgrading their tech for a new career, these gifts can help take the pressure off!
Image: Amazon
Nintendo Switch
Nintendo
Price: $$$$
Who doesn’t love a bit of self-care? Sure, you might think massages and bubble baths, but c’mon, who doesn’t love getting lost in a challenging game? Plus, it’s completely portable to take wherever you want to go.
Image: Amazon
Mini Indoor Cameras
Blink
Price: $
Whether it’s a new apartment or new home, these affordable cameras can make monitoring their new space easy while they are away. Even better, they can double as handy pet cam when they’re at work or traveling.
Image: Amazon
Smart Reusable Notebook
Rocketbook
Price: $
Instead of letting used notebooks pile up, this is a sustainable and smart tech gadget that lets you use your favorite cloud storage app to take notes, scan and upload them, and even share them with others! It’s taking the classic pen and paper to a whole new level and a must-have for a new college student.
Image: Amazon
Mini 2.0 Electric Massage Gun
Therabody
Price: $$$
Why not relax after a long day? This portable massage gun provides targeted pressure to help alleviate pain and stiffness from tired and sore muscles from sitting in a chair all day.
Image: Amazon
RoboVac 20
Eufy By Anker
Price: $$$
Making cleaning easier is a graduation gift that we can get behind! This smart vacuum can be voice-controlled with Alexa or Google, or you can use the handy app on your phone to schedule cleaning or control your vacuum so that it does all the work for you.
Image: Amazon
Now I-Type Instant Film Camera
Polaroid
Price: $$$
With everyone taking photos from their cell phones these days, sometimes it’s nice to go back to our roots and take photos the old fashioned way…with a real camera.
Image: Nordstrom
Hatch Restore Sunrise Alarm Clock
Hatch
Price: $$$
This sunrise alarm clock is a way to wake up gradually, using a natural light that works along with your circadian rhythm to support healthy cortisol levels (aka waking up feeling more refreshed!). You can even program it to use nature sounds or white noise to help you sleep better and with fewer distractions.
Image: Larq
LARQ Bottle PureVis
Larq
Price: $$$
You might have seen this self-cleaning and insulated water bottle on Shark Tank. With just a touch of a button, it can neutralize bacteria with a non-toxic LED technology in just 60 seconds. Or, in case you get busy, it will automatically activate every two hours! Not only that, but it’s insulated to keep water or drinks cold for 24 hours or hot drinks hot for up to 12 hours.
Image: Amazon
Noise Cancelling Headphones
Bose
Price: $$$$
Whether it’s a noisy workplace, library, or college dorm room, being able to shut out the outside noise can help cut down on distractions and allow your student to focus on what matters. Or, take it on a bus, plane, or train to cut out others around you!
Image: Urban Outfitters
Cruiser Plus Turntable
Crosley Radio
Price: $$
Want to give a graduation gift to a lover of all things vintage? If you know that they love to listen to vinyl, upgrade their current record player with this one, which has a built-in Bluetooth receiver so that they can play music through any speaker they choose.
New Home/Apartment Gift Ideas
Moving into a new space can be challenging and, at times, a bit scary! There’s a never-ending list of items to purchase in order to make your new apartment or house feel like a home, so taking some of the pressure off will always be a welcome gift. And don’t forget—sometimes those so-called “boring” gifts are the ones that are the most useful.
Image: Caraway
Non-Stick Ceramic Cookware Set
Caraway
Price: $$$$
A great set of cookware is a gift that will keep on giving. Not only is ceramic a healthier way to cook, but this durable set looks sleek and will be one that they keep for years to come.
Image: Etsy
Picture Frame Set
EKFLY
Price: $$$
Decor for a new apartment can be tricky, especially when it comes to what you hang on your walls. If you love the look of a collage wall but don’t know where to begin, this set gives you all the frames to create your own (or steal their layout) and fill it with your favorite photos.
Image: Anthropologie
Embossed Jar Candle
Voluspa
Price: $
A great smelling candle can be a relaxing way to end the day, or can simply be a fragrant way to liven up your home or office.
Image: Anthropologie
USB Candle Lighter
Anthropologie
Price: $
Instead of using butane lighters or single-use matches, try using a rechargeable USB lighter. This can be used endlessly with a simple charge, and takes the place of dangerous flames or hazardous chemicals.
Image: Nordstrom
Cozy Chic Throw Blanket
Barefoot dreams
Price: $$$
The gift of comfort is always an appreciated graduation gift. There is nothing better than coming home at the end of a long day and crawling into bed or snuggling up on the couch for a Netflix marathon with your favorite blanket.
Image: Amazon
Duvet Comforter Insert
Bedsure
Price: $
At 8 hours a night, did you know that the average human spends one third of their life sleeping? For that reason alone, you need to make sure that your graduate is getting the best rest possible. This comforter can be used as a duvet insert for added warmth or on its own for an ultra-soft down alternative comforter.
Image: Amazon
Cotton Duvet Cover
Bedsure
Price: $
A duvet cover is one of the easiest ways to switch up your bedroom when you are in need of a refresh or simply want to change for the seasons. We love the extra-soft fabric on this duvet cover for a lived-in feeling that is so cozy.
Image: Amazon
Down Alternative Pillows
Beckham Hotel Collection
Price: $$
Much like a great set of bedding, a fluffy, supportive pillow can make-or-break a great night’s sleep. These down alternatives feel just like your favorite hotel pillow and make an ideal complement to a graduation gift for their bedroom.
Image: Anthropologie
Agate Cheeseboard
Anthropologie
Price: $$
These cheeseboards are ideal for the college graduate that is ready to head out on their own and tackle that so-called adult life—but also still wants to host a party on the weekends!
Image: Etsy
Live Money Tree
Price: $
Over the past several years, many people became plant parents and spent time taking great care of plants. It even became a newfound hobby! If you know a college or high school graduate that loves their plants, why not add a new baby to their plant family? Plants can also be a symbol of growth and a fresh start, which applies to any graduate. A good option would be to choose a houseplant and shop at your local nursery. If not, there are many fantastic online plant stores such as The Sill, Bloomscape, and even Amazon, that can deliver it straight to their home.
Image: Amazon
Cooking at Home: Or, How I Learned to Stop Worrying About Recipes
David Chang
Price: $
For many high school graduates, this is the first time that they are on their own—and this includes cooking! Cut down on your DoorDash bill by learning to cook easy recipes for weeknight dinners at home.
Image: Amazon
Espresso Machine
Coffee Gator
Price: $$$
Whether it’s an 8am college class or an 8am workday meeting, getting a dose of caffeine in the morning might be what they need to get a little pep in their step. Plus, this is another simple way to cut down on unnecessary expenses (and stay on budget!) by skipping that expensive coffee shop latte.
Image: Anthropologie
Gleaming Primrose Mirror
Anthropologie
Price: $$$$
If you love the look of the viral Anthropologie mirror but it’s not in your budget, this tabletop version can quickly upgrade a dresser or nightstand into an elevated vanity for their daily makeup looks or nightly skincare routine.
Image: Nordstrom
Aero SM Portable Waterless Diffuser
Seasons
Price: $$$
This unique diffuser doesn’t use water or heat to diffuse essential oils, meaning that they last longer and smell more fragrant! Pair this with a few relaxing essential oils—such as lavender or sandalwood—and create a self-care graduation gift.
Image: Anthropologie
Essential Oil Kit
Vitruvi
Price: $$
If you don’t know where to begin, start with the essentials! This kit includes combination aromas of lavender, rose, peppermint, ylang ylang, chamomile, and more to create perfect scents for their home.
Subscription Services Gift Ideas
Not everyone wants a tangible gift. Sometimes the best gifts are experiences—or, in our case, we love consumable gifts! With so many things to worry about—deadlines, due dates, work meetings, upcoming exams—it’s nice to have the small things taken care of. Many of these subscriptions can be used daily or provide a monthly gift to look forward to and remind your graduate that you care!
Image: HelloFresh
HelloFresh Subscription
Price: $$
HelloFresh is a fantastic meal subscription option that offers easy-to-make recipes in every box. As a gift, you can congratulate the graduate with a gift card to HelloFresh so that they can choose from hundreds of recipes and meals that are delivered directly to their door. A meal subscription is great for someone who enjoys cooking or always wanted to learn—plus, it’s a healthy and fun gift that almost anyone could enjoy.
There are other meal subscription options to explore, such as Green Chef and Home Chef. Whatever you think fits best for that special college graduate!
Current Deal: 6 Free Meals + First Box Ships Free + 3 Surprise Gifts. Use promo code: MAVELY16
Image: Wantable
Wantable Box
Price: Varies
If you want to try new workout clothes or athleisure looks on a budget, Wantable stylists will help you find exactly what you are looking for. Each Active Edit box comes with seven different items to try and you only need to keep what you want and return the rest!
Image: Rocksbox
Rocksbox Subscription
Price: $
Want to invest in a designer piece of jewelry, but afraid of the commitment (or cost)? Rocksbox is a monthly membership that lets you rent designer jewelry for as long as you’d like. Or, if you love it and don’t want to return it, you can purchase it.
Image: Headspace
Headspace Subscription
Price: $
This wellness app is one of our favorites to help you manage stress, anxiety, get a better night’s sleep, and focus on your mental health! You can gift a 3-month membership or a full year, and give them access to hundreds of meditations, workouts, mindfulness exercises, and even sleep sounds. The perfect accessory to a busy and hectic lifestyle.
Image: Thrive Market
Thrive Market Gift Card
Price: $$
If you want to ensure that your graduate has access to healthy and affordable food, a gift card to Thrive Market can help. Choose between a 1-year membership, a shopping credit, or a combination of the two, for a graduation gift that allows them to save up to 30% on a wide variety of sustainable and organic brands. Plus, each annual membership sponsors a family in need!
Image: Hulu
Hulu Subscription
Price: $
Hulu offers a nearly endless streaming library! So, no matter if they can’t get enough of Bob’s Burgers or they love a thoughtful documentary, they can watch it all on Hulu. You also have the ability to add Live TV or include Disney+ and ESPN+ in your packages, as well as opting for zero ads!
Image: Stitch Fix
Stitch Fix Gift Card
Price: Varies
By filling out a quick style quiz, you can speak with a stylist to discover clothing that fits your unique style, at your budget. But this isn’t a subscription service, you can choose a Fix at any time you like! Want to shop solo? Your personalized online store is updated daily with outfit ideas that you can order on your own! This is the perfect graduation gift idea for a student who needs to upgrade their business casual or professional wardrobe for upcoming interviews!
Image: Amazon
Audible Subscription
Price: $
For those that love to listen to audiobooks, podcasts, and more, an Audible subscription gives them one credit per month that is good for any title that they want. You can choose from a 1-month, 3-month, 6-month, or full year trial.
Image: Dermstore
BeautyFIX Subscription
Price: $
This monthly subscription is filled with full and travel-size products for the beauty and skincare lover. It’s a perfect way to sample a product they’ve always wanted to try but didn’t want to spend the money or find a new favorite.
Image: Bean Box
Bean Box Subscription
Price: $
Bean Box isn’t just another coffee subscription service—consider them your coffee sommelier. You can choose between a variety of specialty coffees from around the country, personalized just for you. Plus, we love Bean Box’s “Farm-to-Cup” sustainability—they help support independent roasters and fair wages for farmers with every purchase made.
Image: Who Gives A Crap?
Who Gives A Crap Subscription
Price: $-$$
Did someone say toilet paper subscription? Yes, we did! This subscription isn’t just about toilet paper—it’s about helping the planet, too! These toilet paper rolls are made from 100% sustainable bamboo, and 50% of profits are donated to organizations to help provide clean water and toilets to those in need. You can choose between a subscription or a one-time delivery. Trust us, this will be one item they’ll be thankful to have.
Image: Amazon
Amazon Music Subscription
Price: $
While there are a lot of music subscriptions out there, we’re loyal to Amazon Music because you can stream over 100 million songs, completely ad-free, and with unlimited skips. Lover of podcasts? Amazon Music also offers the most ad-free podcasts to let you listen to anything you want, anywhere.
