50 College Graduation Gifts That'll Be SO Useful in ~Adulthood~ (2024)

Talk to any soon-to-be college grad and they’ll probably tell you that they’d be perfectly happy with a card stuffed with some cash or a Venmo payment as a college graduation gift. But you might feel like going a little more sentimental than cold, hard cash—after all, this degree was years of work in the making! In that case, let us help you find the perfect, lavish-yet-useful-and-appropriate college graduation gift to commemorate the special occasion.

Below, we’ve rounded up the 50 best gift ideas that the college grad in your life needs right now. 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. But you could also bring all the celebratory vibes with a bottle of bubbly (given that it’s age-appropriate, ofc) or a funny card (which could totally have cash in it… just sayin’).

Scroll down or bookmark this page so the next time you get a graduation announcement in the mail, you’ll know exactly what to get 'em.

“Omg, it smells like New Job in here!” said no one ever, but a yummy candle that they burn when starting their first job is still a cute way to make scent memories during a pivotal time in their life. The brand also makes location candles, so you could purchase one with their new city on it as a “congrats on moving!” or “don’t forget about us!” gift.

I guarantee that your Swiftie grad has had their eye on this beautiful vinyl version of Taylor Swift’s most recent album, The Tortured Poets Department.

They might have had the flexibility to eat wherever during college, but if they have an office job lined up, they’ll be rlly thankful for this practical lunch box set—which comes with three removable containers.

When in doubt!! It's safe to say most college graduates or students want money. This gift card, which comes in a cute graduation cap box, makes it perfect for the occasion.

Just cuz they might need to carry a ~briefcase-like~ bag to the office doesn’t mean it has to be ugly, k? This vegan leather option comes in a bunch of colors, fits a standard laptop, and boasts a handy luggage strap that’ll keep it perched on top of a carry-on for any work-related travel.

If they made it all the way through college without one of these babies (they’re basically a necessity for throwing parties), they definitely need one after they graduate. It’s perfect for creating ~ambiance~ in their new apartment.

It’s thematic, get it? This bracelet is a cute lil spin on the classic name necklace with each letter of their name spelled out on a pretty four-leaf clover to wish your new grad the best of luck in their new chapter of life!

Not only does this mini printer spit out the cutest little photos straight from your smartphone, it also can print sticky-backed photos that’ll totally change the game for anyone who loves journaling or scrapbooking.

Cue alllllll the jokes about learning things in school that you’ll never need to know. This card game is full of 400 random facts to add to that list (and it'll draw out your grad into chatting about their lives).

This book gives solid career advice and attempts to answer the age-old question: “How can I have a job I love that also pays my rent?” A question for everyone, but especially in your 20s!

Class rings are cute and all, but I’d bet money that what your new grad has actually been eyeing is the Oura, a health-tracking smart ring that gives you tons of insights on everything from your sleep to your resting heart rate. Check out our full review of the Oura ring here!

The grad might be going straight from studying at home to working from home, in which case this kit will definitely be their dream gift. Inside they'll find a webcam cover, conference call bingo card, earplugs, and much, much more.

What do new grads need? Sleep! What do they not get enough of?? You get it. At least help them get halfway there with a luscious satin pillow, eye mask, and scrunchie set.

Nothing says “getting my sh*t together” like a shelf filled with self-improvement books. Get their collection started with this best-selling book on making the most of the new decade they’re navigating.

Skip the Rollie and gift them a sleek Apple Watch instead. The waterproof wearable is great for runners, swimmers, and literally anyone who’d prefer to not have their iPhone in hand at all times. They’re so useful!

This gift box is what a recent college graduate needs for their much-deserved celebration: two stemless wine glasses and a prosecco-flavored candle. Level up with a confetti push-pop and a champagne-shaped candle.

Anyone who's WFH would love one of these adjustable laptop stands. They can use it when they're lying in bed or on the couch, then convert it into a stand-up desk when they need to stretch their legs.

Do they love having their phone available while they work? Get 'em this wireless magnetic charger that also gives their headphones some juice, too. Dual wireless charging while going hands-free? Yes pls.

Um, custom drinks they can make at home for a night in/Netflix and chill moment when they just don't want to go to the bar? Absolutely, yes—and something they prob wouldn't get themselves, so a perfect gift.

If you’re planning on taking the ol’ card-and-money route, snag this cute little grad bear to round out your gift. It’s a fun on-theme keepsake and, of course, devastatingly cute.