My College:
High School

High School Graduation Gift Guide

CollegiateParent


Share this:

When high school ends, the future begins. Like shooting stars, our grads are heading in all directions: college, employment, gap years, travel. It’s time to celebrate!

One thing we’re all looking for: unique and personal graduation gifts. Whether classic, practical, whimsical or high tech, here are suggestions in every style and price range. Find one that’s right for your special high school grad!

Items for the Dorm Room

If your first-year student will live in a residence hall, these items can help them create a comfortable and homey space.

Bedding set

Nothing is more important than a good night's sleep and that starts with a comfy bed! Find a bedding set that your student will love.

Humidifier

They'll appreciate a humidifier to add moisture to the air, helping with dry skin, throat, nose or lips.

Laundry basket

A unique or monogrammed laundry bag makes it fun to keep the room (and their clothes!) clean.

Bluetooth speaker

For those midnight jam sessions.

Gift Ideas Under $25

Don’t break the bank with these useful and memorable items.

The 5 Ingredient College Cookbook

Your student could use a cookbook with easy recipes to match their living situation.

Charging laptop backpack

To carry their school supplies and stay connected during the day.

 

Personalized academic planner

They’ll definitely appreciate this when school starts. With three layouts to chose from, it’s a no-brainer!

Something Personalized

Picture frames, throw blankets, storage items… Create a one-of-a-kind gift with the help of vendors like Mark and Graham or Personalizationmall.com.

Monogrammed stationary

For thank-you notes and staying in touch from afar. Lots of unique choices on Etsy and Minted.

Latitude & longitude jewelry

For a reminder of where home will always be. Lots of hand-stamped choices like this one on Etsy.

Monogrammed leather satchel or shoulder bag

They’re ready for something more grown-up than that old backpack from high school.

Custom portrait with their pet

Leaving their furry companions is going to be hard! Give them an extra-special portrait from Furesque.

 

Electronic Essentials

Noise cancellation headphones

Help them block out the noise and concentrate while studying anywhere on campus.

Laptop

A necessity for reading, writing papers and uploading assignments. Add a protective case or software such as antivirus and cloud backup.

Portable external hard drive

Dealing with so many important documents and files, your student will appreciate having an external hard drive.

Kitchen supplies

Electric Kettle

For tea time when they get a head cold. College students love these quick and easy water boilers — especially the ones with the see-through style and fun lights!

Coffee maker

Compact coffee makers or a French press are great gifts for small spaces.

Dish sets and silverware

Durable plastic plates, cups, bowls and silverware are useful in a dorm room setting.

And One Last Thing…

Somewhere amidst the events, gifts and guests, take time to slow it all down. Maybe you sit on the couch with your student and look through their baby photo albums. Or you go for a dog walk, or a drive with the car windows down (let them drive, so you can steal glances at them). Talk a bit about nothing…and everything.

Savor the last few moments of this childhood chapter and know that the best is yet to come.


We participate in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program and receive a small fee for purchases made through Amazon and affiliated sites at no extra cost to you.

Share this:
CollegiateParent supports you on your own personal journey during your student's college years. We answer questions, share stories and connect you to life on campus. Reach out to us at any time!
Find Your University
  • Sign up to receive awesome content in your inbox every week.

    We don’t spam! Read our privacy policy and terms for more info.

  • Connect

    Don't Miss Out!

    Get engaging stories and helpful information all year long. Join our college parent newsletter!