Best Gift Cards to Buy for College & University Students

Gift cards are loved universally. But students who are on a limited budget truly appreciate their value. Gift cards can be a lifesaver for college and university students. They can use gift cards for daily essentials, fun experiences, or academic needs. When it comes to the best ideas for gift cards for students, of course the first thing is the recipient's personal needs and preferences. If you keep their likes and dislikes in mind, you can choose a gift card for them that will be both practical and exciting. Here in this blog, we have compiled a list of the best gift cards  for students from different categories. Once you have done your due diligence about their preferences, it will be easier for you to choose the best option.

Lifestyle Gift Cards

Lifestyle gift cards are incredibly useful for students. They offer the students the flexibility to buy essentials, treat themselves to something nice, or stock up on supplies. Below are three top choices for lifestyle gift cards:

1. Amazon Gift Card

Amazon has become a one-stop-shop for just about everything. Be it textbooks, dorm room supplies, or snacks for group study sessions, an Amazon gift card gives students the flexibility to purchase whatever they need. On top of that, the fast delivery option makes it a convenient choice for students with tight schedules.

2. Foot Locker Gift Card

Foot Locker gift cards are perfect for students who are into sports or simply looking to update their wardrobe. They can grab something to stay active or look good around campus. For students who prioritize comfort and style, Foot Locker provides endless options.

3. Sephora Gift Card

Anyone who receives a Sephora gift card will be over the moon, especially a student who is on a tight budget already. They can experiment with makeup or invest in skincare essentials. It’s a perfect gift for students who enjoy self-care and want to feel their best, both inside and outside of class.

Gaming Gift Cards

Gaming is a popular pastime for many students. It provides them a break from the stress of academic life. If you give them one of the gaming fit cards, you are sure to make them happy.

1. Steam Gift Card

The Steam platform is a haven for gamers. With a wide array of games and downloadable content, a Steam gift card is an excellent choice for students who enjoy playing video games. Whether they love action-packed shooters or relaxing indie games, they can find something that suits their taste.

2. Razer Gold Gift Card

Razer Gold is another great option for students who are into online games. It allows users to purchase credits and other in-game items. A Razer Gold gift card is perfect for students looking to enhance their gaming experience with skins, loot boxes, and other add-ons for their favorite games.

3. Xbox Gift Card

If you know that the student owns an Xbox, an Xbox gift card will be a great choice. They can buy new games, stream movies, or subscribe to Xbox Live using this gift card. It will give them the flexibility to choose what’s most valuable to them. It’s also great for students who prefer console gaming over PC or mobile platforms.

General-Purpose Gift Cards

Finally, if you're unsure what a student might want or need, general-purpose gift cards are a safe bet. They can be used anywhere, making them incredibly versatile for a variety of needs.

1. American Express (Amex) Gift Card

An Amex gift card is the ultimate flexible option. It can be used almost anywhere, allowing students to buy groceries, pay bills, or even splurge on a treat. It's especially helpful for those times when they need to cover unexpected expenses or simply want a night out.

2. Visa Gift Card

A Visa gift card works just like a debit card. This means it can be used at virtually any store or online retailer. Whether they need to grab some last-minute school supplies or pay for a streaming subscription, a Visa gift card gives students the freedom to use it how they see fit.

3. Mastercard Gift Card

Similar to Visa, Mastercard gift cards offer students unparalleled flexibility. They can use it for anything from groceries to gas or even a night out with friends. It’s a practical option that ensures they can take care of their daily needs or unexpected expenses.

Conclusion

Gift cards are more than just a thoughtful present for college and university students—they’re practical, flexible, and sometimes just what they need to make life a little easier. The key is choosing one that fits their unique needs and interests.

As a student, if you have received a gift card that doesn't match your taste, we can imagine your disappointment. We can give you an alternative though: trade gift cards for cash. Platforms like Cardgoal enable you to to sell the unused gift cards and get Naira in return. Install Cardgoal Android App or Cardgoal iOS App and explore the world of gift card trading!