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50 College Graduation Gifts That Your Favorite Soon-to-be Grad Will Love

Cheers to the class of 2025!

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new grad gifts
Ying Chen

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Truly nothing is worse than entering adult life and realizing how many new things you have to handle, manage, and buy. Like, what do you mean that sheets, rent, a vacuum, and some work clothes cost $5,000? If you talk to any soon-to-be college grad, they'll probably tell you that they'd be happy to receive a card stuffed with some cold, hard cash as a college graduation gift. But you know that a looming list of purchases awaits them, so we've rounded up the 50 best gift ideas that the college grad in your life could really use. Think nice yet practical, like high-quality work wardrobe pieces or a tech device that’ll help ‘em out in the adult world.

Or, if you feel like going sentimental, something like a gorgeous ring, keepsake box, or photo album to mark the end of a chapter is sure to be well-received. And nobody is stopping you from bringing celebratory vibes with a bottle of bubbly (given that it’s age-appropriate, ofc) to top off your gift, just saying! Go ahead and scroll down now, and don't forget to bookmark this page so that the next time you get a graduation announcement in the mail, you’ll know exactly what to get them.

It’s thematic, get it? This bracelet is a cute 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!

When in doubt, it's safe to say most college graduates or students want money. This personalized grad gift card, which comes in a cute graduation cap lid, can be filled with rolled-up bills (the "diplomas") as a fun way to give cold, hard cash.

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If you’re planning on taking the classic card-with-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.

Between all the grad parties, celebrations, and maybe even post-grad trips, there are plenty of special memories that would look SO good captured on film. This reloadable point-and-shoot film camera is super easy for beginners to use, and the photos turn out great (I’ve tested it myself!).

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I own a super similar set and it's sooooo comfortable. I'll wear it around the house 24/7 but it's also cute enough to wear outside. No matter what your grad is doing, they're going to live in comfy clothes like this.

6
a book to deal with post-grad life

Adam Smiley Poswolsky The Quarter-Life Break-Through

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<i>The Quarter-Life Break-Through</i>
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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!

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Get them this delicate bracelet with their initial on it for a super personalized gift that’ll commemorate this major life milestone.

Luggage Suitcase Piece Set
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Credit: Courtesy Image

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.

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9
this faux leather laptop bag

Beis Work Tote in Maple

Work Tote in Maple

Just cuz they might need to carry a briefcase-like bag to the office doesn’t mean it has to be ugly, ok? 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.

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.

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Graduation ceremonies, job interviews, networking events—a new grad has plenty of occasions where a pair of classic pumps would be super useful.

Finally! A place to put all those party pics and polaroids from the good ole days. This photo album comes with 256 mini photo sleeves that are the perfect size for instant photos.

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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.

A little jewelry box like this velvet one would look so nice sitting in their first apartment ever. It would also be the chicest way to gift someone a piece of jewelry, just saying...

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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.

16
this satin sleep set

Kitsch Satin Sleep Set

Satin Sleep Set
Credit: Courtesy Image

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.

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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.

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).

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19
this laptop desk

SAIJI Laptop Bed Tray Desk

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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 place it on a tabletop to convert it into a stand-up desk when they need to stretch their legs.

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!

Headshot of Hannah Oh
Hannah Oh
Shopping Editor

Hannah is the Shopping Editor at Cosmopolitan, covering all things from chic home decor to trendy fashion finds, TikTok products that are actually worth your $$$, and the perfect gift to buy for your boyfriend's mom. She previously wrote for Seventeen and CR Fashion Book. Follow her on Instagram for hot takes on red carpet fashion and pictures of her office outfits that nobody asked for. 

Headshot of Daisy Maldonado
Daisy Maldonado
Weekend Editor

Daisy Maldonado is an editor who covers everything from the latest fashion news to deeper looks at beauty culture and the internet’s most talked-about pop culture moments. She’s especially interested in the intersection of style and digital culture, and loves exploring what the trends we follow say about us. When she’s not writing, she’s probably four pages deep on The RealReal searching for vintage designer pieces or planning her next trip abroad (she lived in Paris for a year and hasn’t stopped talking about it since). Her work has appeared in Vogue, Bustle, Allure, and many more.

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