Required Gifts

• If the graduate or the graduate's family members have invited you to the graduation ceremony--or if you have been invited to a graduation party--then etiquette dictates that you bring or send a gift.
  
  

When to Give

• Give your gift to the graduate on graduation day or close to the day, advises the etiquette website EmilyPost.com.
  
  

What to Give

• Graduation gifts are left open to your creativity. "Many families see graduation as a rite of passage and celebration worthy. Some parents splurge on a car or computer," according to EmilyPost.com. Other people give gifts of money, jewelry, gift cards and even luggage to help with packing up for the big move to college or a new city.
  
  

Flowers

• Flowers are a traditional gift choice. Either bring a bouquet to present to the graduate at the ceremony or buy a corsage or boutonniere to wear at the graduation party.
  
  

Myths

• One common graduation myth is that you have to send a gift if you receive a graduation announcement. This is not the case, according to EmilyPost.com. You need to send a gift only if you are invited to the graduation ceremony or a graduation party. "Whether or not you send a present, a card or note of congratulations is always appreciated," advises the website.