How Much To Give For a Graduation

We make cards, pin badges and prints in the UK. We don't sell laptops or luggage, so the ideas below are a straight guide - the card at the end is the only thing we're selling.

There's no fixed rule, which is exactly why people ask. These are the amounts UK families actually give.

Treat them as a range, not a target, and give at the bottom of it without a second thought if that's where your budget sits.

Finish it with a card

Whatever the amount, the card carries it.

Personalised graduation card celebrating the Class of 2025 with customizable text for the graduate. Class of 2025 Personalised Graduation Card £3.87 Congratulations graduation card featuring the bold text "You did it!" to celebrate academic success. You Did It! Graduation Card £3.87 Festive graduation card with "You did it!" written on the front, perfect for celebrating exam or university success. You Did It! Graduation Card £3.87 Whose a Clever Girl (Funny Graduation Card) Whose a Clever Girl (Funny Graduation Card) £3.75 Illustration of a smiling graduate in a cap and gown on a congratulations graduation card for him. Congratulations! You Did It Graduation Card For Him £3.87 Graduation card for her featuring a cheerful illustrated character wearing a black graduation cap and gown. Congratulations! You Did It Graduation Card For Her £3.87

Browse congratulations cards

By relationship

  • Friend or coursemate: £10 to £25, or a card and a night out instead.
  • Aunt, uncle or cousin: £25 to £50.
  • Grandparent: £50 to £100 is common, often more for a first grandchild to graduate.
  • Parent: no standard at all - frequently a larger practical contribution rather than cash.

By occasion

  • Undergraduate graduation is the big one and where most gifts land.
  • Masters graduations usually get a smaller gift or a good meal out.
  • PhD graduations are more often marked with a party or a keepsake than money.
  • Sixth form and college leaving is typically £10 to £20 with a card.

Group gifts

  • Four people at £20 buys something far better than four £20 gifts.
  • Best for experiences: a weekend away, a concert, a good meal.
  • One card, everyone's name in it, one payment from one person.
  • Agree the figure in the group chat before anyone buys anything.

When money is tight

  • A card with a proper letter in it is a genuine gift and costs almost nothing.
  • Cook them a meal, drive them to the ceremony, or take the photos.
  • Offer something for after: a lift to their new city, help moving boxes.
  • Never apologise for the amount. Nobody is keeping score except you.

Browse congratulations cards

How to write it so it lands

  • It's a range, not a target.
  • Group up for anything big.
  • A letter in a card is a real gift.

Where to shop next

Frequently asked questions

How much should a grandparent give for a graduation?

£50 to £100 is typical in the UK, though there's no obligation and less is perfectly normal.

Do you give money for a masters graduation?

Usually less than for an undergraduate degree - a card, a meal out or a small gift is the norm.

What if I can't afford a graduation gift?

Write a proper card and offer your time: photos, a lift, a meal, help with the move. All of it counts.

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