57 graduation gifts to empower college students in navigating adulthood and celebrating their achievements

Side by side images of a candle underneath a warming lamp and a closeup of a person's neck wearing a gold Birthdate Co necklace with birthstones in the pendant.
Crystal Cox/Business Insider; Birthdate Co.

When you buy through our links, Insider may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more

Finding the perfect gifts for college students can be a challenge, but it's a great way to show your support and let them know you're thinking about them. College students are constantly juggling various responsibilities, from late nights studying to navigating the challenges of living on their own.

Whether they're preparing for midterms or dreaming of a future study abroad trip, it's important to find gifts that can make their lives easier and more enjoyable. This list of 57 thoughtful gifts includes everything from practical gadgets to comfortable clothes and self-care products for moments of relaxation. No matter what their interests or needs are, you're sure to find something that any college student would love.

Advertisement
Advertisement

A cactus toilet plunger and brush

toilet plunger and brush with cactus-shaped handles on the floor next to a toilet in a bathroom.
Amazon

ALLOBUB Cactus Toilet Plunger and Brush

This Cactus Toilet Plunger and Brush Set is a fun and practical gift for college students. This set features a cute cactus design that adds a touch of whimsy to bathroom cleaning. The cactus design not only brings a playful element but also serves as a functional handle for easy grip and use. It's a great gift idea to make cleaning more enjoyable and stylish for college students as they maintain their own living spaces.

A cozy weighted blanket

Person laying underneath a multicolor floral weighted blanket.
Natural Life

Natural Life Jewel Border Weighted Blanket

The weighted blanket can help college students unwind after a long day of classes and studying, promoting better sleep and reducing anxiety. It's a thoughtful gift that will be appreciated for its warmth and soothing qualities.

Advertisement
Advertisement

A lightweight tinted moisturizer

Bottle of Daybird Tinted Skincare with the product dripping out of the nozzle down the side of the bottle.
Daybird

Daybird Tinted Skincare

This tinted moisturizer provides hydration to the skin while offering a subtle tint for a natural and effortless look. Perfect for busy college days, it combines the benefits of a moisturizer and a tinted foundation in one product, simplifying the skincare and makeup routine. The Daybird Tinted Moisturizer is a convenient and time-saving solution for college students who want to achieve a fresh and glowing complexion with minimal effort.

 

A reason to send letters home

Two stamps from the USPS Love 2023 collection: one featuring an illustration of a cat holding a heart, the other featuring an illustration of a dog holding a heart.
USPS

USPS Love 2023 Stamps (100-pack)

With the increasing reliance on digital communication, having a supply of stamps on hand can be beneficial for sending letters, cards, or important documents through traditional mail. Stamps provide students with the convenience of easily mailing items without having to worry about finding or purchasing stamps when the need arises. It's a practical gift that can help them stay connected and organized, whether they're sending personal letters, thank-you notes, or important paperwork.

Advertisement
Advertisement

A reusable film camera

Kodak Ektar H35 Half Frame Film Camera in sage green sitting on top of a wooden coaster.
Walmart

Kodak Ektar H35 Half Frame Film Camera

The Kodak Ektar camera is a great gift for college students who have an interest in photography or want to explore film photography. The Ektar camera is known for its exceptional image quality and vibrant colors. It provides a manual shooting experience, allowing students to learn and experiment with different settings and techniques.

An elevated study snack

Bag of Pocky Sakura Matcha flavor snacks with opened Pocky sticks laid around the bag.
Bokksu

Pocky Sakura Matcha (8-pack)

When it comes to study snacks, Sakura Matcha Pocky is a fantastic choice. This seasonal release from Japan combines the beloved flavors of cherry blossom and matcha into a delicious and convenient treat. The crispy biscuit sticks coated in matcha-flavored chocolate offer a perfect balance of sweetness and earthiness, providing a delightful pick-me-up during study sessions.

Advertisement
Advertisement

A pickleball paddle

Person's hand holding a green and white striped pickleball paddle and whiffle ball while on a court.
Tangerine

Tangerine Gardiner's Bay Pickleball Paddle

Tangerine is known for its high-quality pickleball equipment, including paddles that are designed for performance and durability. The Tangerine pickleball paddle would provide college students with a reliable and stylish option to enjoy their favorite sport.

A beard trimmer used by their favorite player

Box containing the PT45 Beard and Hair Trimmer.
Beard Club

Beard Club PT45 Beard and Hair Trimmer

It's no wonder that this trimmer has gained recognition and is used by individuals like James Harden, a prominent figure known for his well-groomed beard. With the PT45, you can confidently groom your beard to perfection and tackle your day with a newfound sense of confidence.

Advertisement
Advertisement

A phone case with a powerful message

iPhone with a Self-Love By Mirrors Reflect You Phone Case on it, featuring a mirror detail and the text "Self-love includes accepting the things you cannot change while still working towards the things you can."
Casetify

CASETiFY Self-Love By Mirrors Reflect You Phone Case

The mental health-focused phone case by CASETiFY is a gift that goes beyond just being a phone accessory. It serves as a symbol of support, encouragement, and advocacy for mental health. By using this phone case, college students can carry a reminder of the importance of prioritizing their mental well-being and promoting self-love. It also acts as a conversation starter, allowing them to engage in meaningful discussions about mental health with others.

A bundle of staple tees

Black tank top, pale yellow cropped t-shirt, and pink t-shirt, part of the Cuts Clothing Best Sellers Kit.
Cuts Clothing

Cuts Clothing Best Sellers Kit

Cuts is the perfect brand for college students who value both style and comfort. With their high-quality clothing, Cuts offers a range of essentials that are versatile and easy to wear. Whether you're rushing to class or hanging out with friends, their pieces are designed to keep up with your busy college lifestyle. From their signature T-shirts to their cozy sweatshirts, Cuts combines modern aesthetics with premium fabrics for a perfect blend of style and comfort. Upgrade your wardrobe with Cuts and experience clothing that is tailored to your needs as a college student.

Sign up for Insider Reviews' weekly newsletter for more buying advice and great deals.

You can purchase logo and accolade licensing to this story here.

Disclosure: Written and researched by the Insider Reviews team. We highlight products and services you might find interesting. If you buy them, we may get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our partners. We may receive products free of charge from manufacturers to test. This does not drive our decision as to whether or not a product is featured or recommended. We operate independently from our advertising team. We welcome your feedback. Email us at reviews@insider.com.

Advertisement
Close icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. It indicates a way to close an interaction, or dismiss a notification.