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What is the Appropriate Monetary Gift Range for a High School Graduate?

Published in Graduation Gift Money 3 mins read

The appropriate monetary gift for a high school graduate typically varies based on your relationship with them, ranging from a thoughtful amount for an acquaintance to a more substantial gift for a close family member. There isn't a single "exact" amount, but rather recommended ranges to consider.

Here's a breakdown of general guidelines for monetary graduation gifts:

Relationship to Graduate Recommended Gift Range
Close Relatives $50 - $200
Close Friend $50 - $100
Acquaintance/Co-worker Less than $50

Close Relatives: Grandchildren, Nieces, Nephews, Siblings

For those considered close family members, such as grandchildren, nieces, nephews, or siblings, a gift in the range of $50 to $200 is generally expected. This wider range allows for flexibility based on your specific financial situation and the depth of your relationship.

  • Considerations:
    • Your Budget: Always give what you can comfortably afford without financial strain.
    • Number of Graduates: If you have multiple graduates in the same year, you might adjust individual amounts to fit your overall budget.
    • Graduate's Plans: If the graduate is heading to college, trade school, or moving out, a higher amount can significantly help with expenses like textbooks, dorm supplies, or initial living costs.
    • The Significance of the Milestone: For a particularly special graduation (e.g., the first grandchild to graduate), you might lean towards the higher end of the spectrum.

Close Friends

If a good friend is graduating, a monetary gift between $50 and $100 is a good choice. This range acknowledges your strong bond and support for their achievement without the same financial expectation as close family.

  • Tips for Friends:
    • Group Gifts: Teaming up with other friends to give a larger collective gift can be a great option, allowing the graduate to receive a more substantial sum.
    • Personal Touch: Even a smaller monetary gift can be made more special with a heartfelt card or a small, thoughtful non-monetary item.

Acquaintances or Co-workers

For someone you don't know quite as well, such as an acquaintance, a distant relative, or a co-worker's child, the appropriate gift amount will be less than $50. This could be a modest cash gift or a gift card.

  • Sensible Gifting:
    • Gift Cards: A gift card to a popular coffee shop, online retailer, or local restaurant is often a well-received and practical choice for acquaintances.
    • Shared Gifts: If it's a co-worker's child, a collection taken up in the workplace can result in a more impactful group gift.
    • Thought Over Amount: For someone you don't know intimately, the gesture of recognition is often more important than the exact monetary value.

General Tips for Giving a Monetary Graduation Gift

Regardless of the amount, how you present the gift can add to its impact.

  • Presentation Matters:
    • Neat Packaging: Place cash or a check in a graduation card with a personal message.
    • Gift Cards: If opting for a gift card, choose one relevant to their interests or future plans (e.g., bookstore for a college-bound student, restaurant for someone starting a job).
  • Consider Their Future: Many graduates appreciate money as it offers flexibility to pay for college essentials, trade school tuition, a new laptop, or even just savings as they embark on their next chapter.
  • Personalized Note: Always include a handwritten note congratulating them on their accomplishment and offering words of encouragement for their future endeavors. This personal touch elevates any monetary gift.

Ultimately, the best gift is one given sincerely and within your means.