As with many decisions surrounding graduation, there is no universally agreed-upon standard for how much money to gift a graduate. But there are some guidelines to help you make your decision.
First, decide if it’s necessary to get the graduate a gift at all. You can respond to announcements with a simple card wishing them well. An invitation to a graduation party or ceremony should be met with a gift, but the size and amount depend on your relationship to the graduate.
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.
It is important to take into account what the graduate is planning to do after graduation and whether they truly need money. Graduates who are already financially sound may appreciate a meaningful memento instead so that you can concentrate monetary gifts on the graduates who really need them. If you would rather give an affordable and meaningful gift, you can get the student agraduation stole. This gift will be prominent in photographs and serve as a wonderful way to remember the day.
Presentation also makes a big difference when giving money. Even a relatively small amount will mean more tucked between the pages of a book or folded into a sincere note. You can get creative and make a money tree or include graduation quotes.
Money is a popular and appreciated gift for college graduation, but it is also a more sensitive subject than a particular gift.Evaluating all parties’ financial situations, your relationship, and how best to show you genuinely care, will help make a decision on how much money is appropriate.
FAQs
Ideally, an appropriate monetary gift for graduates should range between $100 and $500,” he says. One reason money is so desirable is that the graduate may be facing daunting student loan debt.
How much money is appropriate for a high school graduation gift? ›
High School Graduation
For high school grads, the average gift is around $50 to $200. To decide an amount, consider if this is a close friend or family member. You may also want to talk to other people who are giving gifts to decide how much you will give to the graduate.
How much money should you put in a graduation card? ›
Close relatives like grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and siblings: If you're a close family member of the graduate, expect to give around $50 to $200. Close friend: If a good friend is graduating, a $50 to $100 gift is a good choice. Acquaintance or co-worker: Spend less for someone you don't know quite as well.
What is the etiquette for high school graduation gifts? ›
While some parents splurge on a car or computer, many choose less elaborate, but still meaningful, gifts to commemorate the day. Jewelry (often engraved with the date), books, cash or stock certificates, luggage, a camera, or graduation rings are all presents the graduate will appreciate in the years ahead.
Is $20 enough for a graduation gift? ›
High School Graduation
A good range to consider is: $20 - $50: For acquaintances or distant relatives.
Is it okay to give a check for graduation gift? ›
In that case, a graduation card accompanied by cash, a check or a digital payment may be the very gift they need and will actually treasure.
How much money to give for high school graduation gift 2024? ›
Giving $100 or more (depending on your budget and relationship) is common, but there are no specific rules. A very small sum can seem unimpressive, though, whether it's in cash or on a gift card, so peruse popular presents for high school graduates.
Is it OK to give cash as graduation gift? ›
And while cash is always welcome, there's a good chance it will disappear quickly, with little of substance left to show for it. Instead, give a gift that has lasting value, and helps the graduate in your life start to develop positive financial habits.
Is $150 a good graduation gift? ›
High School Student(s): The majority of individuals will give cash as a high school graduation present with a range from $20 -$150. Use the following breakdown as a guide for your gift amount.
What to give someone graduating from high school? ›
Personalized jewelry makes for thoughtful high school graduation gifts. Consider a custom necklace with the graduate's name or birthstone, a charm bracelet to commemorate interests and achievements, or a class ring engraved with the graduation year. These serve as wearable mementos of the graduate's big day.
Cash is king, and for any high school graduate, cash is a one-size-fits-all gift that is oh-so-useful for gas money, textbooks, dorm decorations, late-night snacks or anything else.
Is it customary to get a graduation gift? ›
The short answer is, “Absolutely!” Bringing gifts to a graduation party is a celebrated tradition, acting as a symbol of your support and congratulations.
What to get a girl for high school graduation? ›
Cash paired with a smaller gift is always nice, or you can choose a gift card for a local restaurant, coffee shop or college bookstore. If you'd prefer a tangible gift, here are some amazing gift ideas for high school graduates.
What is appropriate to wear to a high school graduation? ›
Here are some basic guidelines for a graduation ceremony dress code: Shoes - You can't go wrong with dress shoes, such as pumps, loafers, Oxfords, flats, etc. Clothes - Wear dresses, dress pants, collared shirts, button downs, blouses, skirts, ties, suits, and other nice clothing.
What message do you put on a graduation card? ›
Congratulations!" "Wishing you joy and success as you pursue your dreams. Congratulations on your well-deserved graduation!" "May your graduation be the start of many more wonderful achievements in your life.
