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
Co-worker: $20 - $30. Close friend or sibling: $25-$75. Niece, Nephew, Grandkid: : $50- $100. Son or Daughter: $100- $500.
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 give in a graduation card? ›
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.
Is $20 enough for a graduation gift? ›
High School Graduation
A good range to consider is: $20 - $50: For acquaintances or distant relatives. $50 - $100: For close friends and immediate family members.
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 $25 ok for a graduation gift? ›
Co-worker: $20 - $30. Close friend or sibling: $25-$75. Niece, Nephew, Grandkid: : $50- $100. Son or Daughter: $100- $500.
What is an appropriate gift for a high school graduation? ›
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.
Is it okay to give a check for graduation gift? ›
Either ask the graduate's parents for advice on what to send, opt for a gift certificate so the graduate can choose, send a check, or try to keep in mind that the best gifts are ones that graduates will use in their next stage of life.
What is the appropriate cash amount for college graduation? ›
If the graduate is: A child of parents: $100-500. A child of close relatives (for instance, grandparents): $50-300. A distant relative: $50-100.
Is it OK to send a graduation card without money? ›
You are not obligated to give a gift, although you may choose to do so. Whether or not you send a present, a card or note of congratulations is always appreciated.”
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.
What is a normal college graduation gift? ›
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.
How much money should I give my niece for high school graduation? ›
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.
Is it traditional to give a graduation gift? ›
Traditional Graduation Gifts
It's common to gift things relating to the graduate's university, especially as this can help them to remember their university days as they embark on the first step of their new lives.
What do you write in a graduation card when you can't attend? ›
If for whatever reason you are celebrating apart acknowledge how proud you are of them and how excited you are to see them next. Even when you can't make it to the commencement ceremony or reception, you can still make your presence felt by letting the graduate know you're with them in spirit.
How much to give for high school graduation reddit? ›
$100 is good for a kid you are close to. for a kid you don't know, like $20.
What is appropriate to wear to a high school graduation? ›
It's always better to be overdressed than underdressed.
If the invitation doesn't specifically state the dress code, go with a nice dress or skirt/slacks with a blouse combination. It's a safe bet and you'll always feel more comfortable dressed up than dressed down. Don't wear jeans!
