43 Gifts That College Students Will Actually Appreciate

College is a time of change—whether it’s a good kind of change, a scary kind, or both. Like random roommate assignments, sharing bathrooms, late-night study sessions, perhaps running your very first load of laundry by yourself, and just the general uncertainty of what you want to do with your life? But it’s also a time to figure out more clearly who you are, what you like (or don’t like), create long-lasting relationships, and, yes, earn your degree and get out into the world. Though your college experience might differ a little from today’s version (looking at you, ChatGPT), those sentiments are still the same! One of the best ways to help them navigate through this time is with some thoughtful gifts, whether they’re practical or sentimental.

College students might not have the biggest budgets to spend on themselves, so even the smallest gifts can be a pick-me-up. Here, we rounded up 43 gifts ranging from tech gadgets and coffee makers (they'll need a lot of it) to home décor and accessories that can reflect their personality as they become more independent. They have a lot on their plates—including busy social schedules, of course—so any gesture will be appreciated.