A student’s graduation is a significant and memorable step in their life. It is an accomplishment that deserves a big celebration with friends and family.
During this time families face a difficult question: what would be the best graduation gift?
This is usually a tricky topic because you want to get the best gift possible for this big milestone that your graduate attained. Cash is always an option, but if you have a deeper connection with that person, you want to get them something that is thoughtful and precious.
This article will give you a guideline of 10 college graduation gift alternatives to get instead of giving money. We will also provide some tips on creative gift ideas.
How much should you be giving for college graduation?
Whether it’s middle school, high school, or college that your student is graduating from it’s pretty popular to give them money. But how much should you give them at a time like this?
Before deciding on the amount you should consider your relationship with the graduate. There is no specific amount that you need to give, but you should have an idea of how much you’re willing to give.
But if the choice is hard there are a few expert tips to help you out.
Middle school
Middle school graduation is not as hyped up as college or high school graduation, but it still deserves attention and praise for stepping into a new level in life. By getting a gift you acknowledge the accomplishment. If you are giving cash, $10-30 is appropriate, but the amount is up to you and what fits into your budget.
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Some great gift ideas are:
- Movie tickets
- Spa vouchers
- Electronic devices
- Flowers and balloons
- Gift cards
High school
Graduating from high school is a whole different story. It has a huge ceremony of its own that represents students stepping into adulthood. As a result, people are willing to pay a lot more for this type of graduation. The amount varies according to age group, but parents are typically the biggest spenders. The majority of gifts range between $20 and $100. The amounts can vary depending on your relationship, but some examples are:
- Parents: $100 or more
- Grandparents: $100 or more
- Siblings and friends: $20-75
College graduation
Graduating from college is a huge accomplishment and with big events come even bigger celebrations. After college people are mostly fully mature and know where they want to head in life.
Finishing this chapter in life takes a lot of time and dedication that not everyone is willing to do so reaching this point deserves good praise. According to market realist $100-500 are typically given to students at times like these.
A parent should budget between $50 and $100 for a 2- to a 4-year degree; advanced degrees cost about $100 more per degree. All in all, it is perfectly fine to give cash as a gift, but if you consider alternative ideas then keep reading below.
10 college graduation gift alternatives to simple cash
If you’re not sure how much money to give as a college graduation gift, consider some alternatives. Instead of cash, consider giving a gift card. You could also send a check or make a donation to the graduate’s charity of choice.
When considering an ideal college graduation gift, thoughtful and personalized touches can add a special touch to the celebration. For a unique and meaningful present, you might explore options and order custom name bracelets online, which can be ordered online to commemorate this significant milestone without the need for an extravagant budget.
If you know the graduate well, you could give them a gift that is tailored to their interests or hobbies. Whatever you choose, make sure the graduate will appreciate and find the gift useful. Here are some ideas for the best graduation gifts of 2022:
- Jewelry
- Engraved gifts like pens or clock stackers
- Computer
- Camera
- Iphone
- Silverware set
- New car
- Design pieces
- Albums
- Portraits
- Watch
- Books
- Apple AirPods
Final Thoughts
It is an important tradition to give when it comes to graduation, but it doesn’t matter what you give but more importantly how you give it. When it comes to cash gifts, you want to make sure you do it correctly.
You don’t want to hand a wad of cash to a graduate while they’re still dressed up. Unless you’re feeling particularly inventive, putting it in a card with a personalized message is the best option.
Try not to give it during the ceremony and wait instead for the right moment. Finally, picking a thoughtful gift is more important than worrying about monetary value. Regardless, the graduate will appreciate your efforts.
