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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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!

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.

Absolutely everyone in the world needs a handheld vacuum—especially if they're in a little space and don't have room for the big corded versions. So you're gonna be a lifesaver.

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.

For those post-grad travelers in need of a luggage refresh, these lightweight carry-ons have a hard case and a locking pad to protect their valuables. Oh, and it's so stylish.

Replace the loose knife they’ve been using to chop everything (that is, if they even own a knife at all, lol) and they’ll love you forever. A good set of knives is one of those things you don’t realize you really needed until you start using it—and trust me, they’ll reach for these kitchen knives all the dang time.

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.

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.

It’s a blowout brush, a curling wand, AND a curling iron. They’ll save so much bathroom space with this tool that does triple duty.

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!

Every new grad should have a tool kit for hanging posters, putting together their IKEA bed frame, and generally feeling put-together. This one just so happens to be pink, which obviously makes it an even better gift.

A little bar cart set and a nice bottle of their favorite liquor, wine, or champagne makes for such a fancy gift. This set comes with all the tools they’ll need to make craft co*cktails at home.