15 clever graduation gift ideas under $25, so you don't have to resort to a gift card
Summer is just around the corner, which means it’s officially graduation season. You may have a few recent grads in your life, but if you’re blanking on affordable graduation gift ideas, you’re not alone. We too have struggled with finding the perfect present that flawlessly says, “We’re so proud of your major milestone” and “welcome to the adulting world; it’s hard” simultaneously.
Fortunately, we did some digging for you and we found the perfect gifts for the graduates in your life, whether they’re getting their high school or college diploma (or simply completing their junior year). The best part? They’re all under $25 and will probably win you some major brownie points without hurting your wallet.
Browse our list of 15 great graduation gifts under $25 below.
1PopWallet + Rose Gold Lutz Marble
Chances are the recent grad in your life prioritizes convenience and has dropped their phone one too many times. Get them a solid yet stylish phone grip that will also hold their newly minted credit card.
2Everlane The Baseball Cap
Trust us; your grad will appreciate a streamlined simplistic hat that screams, “I’m cool without even really trying.” And this is also a great option if you actually don’t know what team they support.
3Native Union Curve AirPod Case
You may not be the friend or relative who gets the grad the AirPods, but you’re the one who makes them look cool, and that still matters. This textured AirPods case is perfect for your grad who’s always on the go.
4Cards Against Humanity: Absurd Box
Nothing says, “Welcome to adulthood” quite like a cheeky card game that gets a little R-rated. You can hand this present over to the grad when their parents aren’t looking.
5 Tropical Palm Leaves with Geometric Black and White Background Laptop Skin on Etsy
Whatever your graduate chooses to do next in life will most likely need a laptop, even if it’s just to Zoom their family from their new home away from home. Help them jazz up their technology with this cute laptop cover from Etsy.
6Sativa Turner iPhone Charger Sticker Faces Set
While you’re at it, take that gift of technology customization one step further by giving them this silly iPhone charger face sticker set. They’ll never lose their charger ever again.
7Anthropologie Monogram Mug
A cute mug is a sentimental gift that will always be appreciated. Your loved one will curl up with their warm beverage of choice as they glance out the window into their future with this new mug.
8Urban Outfitters Shiloh Brow Bar Round Sunglasses
Even though things might be tough for the graduate in your life because of the pandemic, you can help them embrace the uncertain vibes of the season with a unique pair of shades that are also 100% UV protected.
9BaubleBar Stellar Link Drop Earrings
If you know your grad likes to accessorize, then BaubleBar is the best shop to find new jewelry to add to their collection. These pairs of drop earrings are currently on sale, and we are in love.
10Anthropologie Ruby Glass Jar Candle
Anthropologie consistently churns out some of the most heavenly scented, make-your-home-into-an-oasis-style candles on the market. And if your grad is about to move to a new place, this candle can double as a housewarming and graduation gift. This particular candle is an orange blossom scent, which basically smells like a carefree run through a citrus orchard in the middle of summer.
11 Glossier Futuredew
If the recent grad in your life is big into their skincare routine, get them this holy grail serum that they’ll be obsessed with. Glossier Futuredew has a cult following because of how moisturizing it is and the visible dewiness it can give to your skin, so it’s sure to be a hit.
12 Old Navy Textured Tote
As your new grad enters into the working world or their next rung on the education ladder, they’re going to need a sturdy tote to get them through it all. Old Navy offers this simple textured option that can carry books, laptops, lunch, and everything in between.
13Old Navy Pointy Toe D’Orsay Flats
Does your relative or friend who’s graduating already have an interview lined up? Get them a business casual staple that’s sure to make them look fresh and professional.
14Anthropologie 52 Lists For Calm Journal
The world is kind of a scary place right now and it’s understandable if the grad in your life is having a bit of anxiety. If they’ve been trying to incorporate a mindfulness practice into their day, a journal like this one that helps them create lists of calming things could be a great addition to their self-care routine.
15BaubleBar Baroque Initial Pearl Hair Pin
Fun hairpins have been on trend lately and these monogrammed options from BaubleBar are adorable. Let your grad enter the world confidently with some trendy hairpieces and they will gladly thank you.
