Graduation Gift Idea List Released by Financial Industry

The financial industry has recently released a list of high school graduation and college graduation gift ideas. An industry spokesman highlighted several considerations graduation gift givers need to consider before making a selection. For instance, often times graduates don't live close by, so consumers may not be familiar with the recipients' interests or habits. Also, the difference between a high-school or a college graduate is likely enough of an age discrepancy to alter the graduation gift selection. Listed below are several featured categories to consider:

Electronics - The obvious selection in this category is an iPod. However, a college graduate gift entering the world of business may find a handheld PDA to be more practical. It is important to remember that many new cell phones have features that provide both of these things, keeping an organizer and playing music. Find out first what the graduate already owns.

College spirit - Popular high-school graduation gifts are ones that make reference to the college the student plans to attend. Merchandise with their college's logo is an excellent option.

Money - This is usually the best option if the recipient's interests are completely unkown. A gift certificate is often a good alternative to cash.

Phone - These are particularly good college or high-school graduation gifts for those who will be moving away from home to go to college or beginning a new job. Also many cell phones now include free nationwide calling plans.

Travel - Several airlines now offer travel vouchers that can be purchased and then redeemed over a one-year period, at the graduate's choice. The gift giver can also consider using their own frequent flyer miles and travel rewards before they expire.

Tuition assistance - A graduation gift of financial assistance is becoming more frequent and is usually the most appreciated by the recipient. It is important to remember that for financial-aid purposes, gifts made directly to the college may be best for the graduate.

Subscription - A subscription to a financial publication such as SmartMoney, Kiplinger Personal Finance or The Wall Street Journal is one of the few college and high-school graduation gifts that is ongoing. Many discounts are also offered to students.

First investment - Another option is a single share of stock to start the graduate on a systematic investment program. Online companies such as oneshare.com and sharebuilder.com offer choices for either a share of stock to give as a gift or a program to start the graduate on a monthly investment schedule.

Professional advice - A gift for graduation that also keeps giving for the long term is access to a financial adviser that can provide valuable direction and possibly assistance with employee-benefit elections at the graduate's new employer.