best gift for phd defense

Join Them With Counting Down to Becoming a Doctor by Getting These Gifts for Ph.D. Defense

It’s almost that day, the day your dear Ph.D. student would be mounting that stage to defend what she’s spent that last couple of months busy with. By doing their Ph.D. defense, they are a few meters away from being called “Doctors,” although not medical, they have to be “treated” right, and these gifts for Ph.D. defense are ideal.

All Gifts for Ph.D. Defense

1. desk name plate.

This 3D desk name plate is an ideal gift for someone taking their Ph.D. defense. Now, I get he isn’t already a doctor, but you can get him something to have in his office,

quality and beautiful, to show the world he is now a doctor. This High-quality Premium 3d personalized gift will stand out.

2. Funny Coffee Mug

This coffee mug is a fantastic gift for someone rounding up their Ph.D. It has a funny way of passing the message “Ph.inished,” which is somewhat a way to say “Finished Ph.D.,” your receiver would surely get the joke, and those around her would get it too.

3. Funny Defense Sweatshirt

An excellent sweatshirt is one of many gifts for a Ph.D. defense; this one has a string of words using the iconic Game Of Thrones fonts and reads, “That’s what I do, I write my dissertations, and I know; things.”

Having spent such a truckload of time in school, I believe we can both agree that your dear receiver knows many things.

4. Bath Bombs for Women

Each bath bomb is individually wrapped and beautifully packed to give you endless hours of relaxation, and they are infused with natural essential oils for a relaxing aromatherapy soak experience.

If you think of it, your dear Ph.D. defense receiver has gone through some stress; what better way to crown her successful defense than by getting this set of bath bombs to help her relax.

5. Funny Dabbing Defense T-Shirt

If you have defended your dissertation, this funny Ph.D. shirt is for you. Funny defending dissertation shirt for all postgraduate and

doctoral students who have survived defending their dissertation. Funny Ph.D. shirt with a dabbing student. This t-shirt comes in different colors; pick the best for them.

6. Funny PhD T-shirt

Another funny Ph.D. defense t-shirt. It has a writeup engraved that says “not that kind of doctor” yeah, he’s not that kind of doctor. This shirt is for you for every post-graduate doctor who gets asked what kind of medical doctor you are!

7. Ph.D Defense Throw Pillow

This fun throw pillow is another fantastic gift for your Ph.D. defense friend. It gives her a schedule or itinerary, or should I say some plans she needs to cross out of her list; she’s barely done with her Ph.D. defense; it is time to conquer the world.

8. Graduation Christmas Ornament

If her Ph.D. defense somehow conflates with Christmas, then celebrate her defense with this Christmas ornament.

This Christmas ornament has a ribbon loop for easy hanging on the tree. It features her name and a figurine of someone in a graduation outfit.

9. Funny Ph.D Defense Mug

The inscription on the mug, which reads “Ph(ucking). D(one),” is a play with two words; I’m pretty sure you got it. It perfectly conveys how doctoral students feel while pursuing their degrees.

Who knew that’s what Ph.D. stood for *wink? Get this mug for the all post-grads in your life that still somehow have the willpower to write another boring, in-depth thesis on some obscure subject nobody will read.

10. Malicious Women Candle

Finishing a Ph.D. isn’t an easy task or a child’s play; it took a truckload of hard work, sleepless nights, writing and writing and writing, and guess what,

she’s finally done, so why don’t you get her this candle to show her that “as a fellow badass, you also respect the badass in her.”

11. Funny Wife Desertation Defense T-Shirt

When my mum was doing her Ph.D., the victim of her constant practice was her husband, my dad, and it was funny cause he had to listen to her prepare and speak while in the room.

Well, she defended and defended well; if your receiver is your darling wife and you can relate to what my dad did, quickly grab this t-shirt for your wifey.

12. Ph.D Notebook

This book makes sense for your new Dr. With this book, he can draft his ideas, research results, quotes, grocery lists, thesis, and so much more.

This journal’s front page contains his Ph.D. journey, which he studies, researches, defends and then graduates. This is one way to celebrate his Ph.D. defense.

13. Appreciation Defense Gift

This doctor tumbler with funny sayings is the best gift for a doctor and also can be excellent doctorate graduation present for men or women.

Made only from the highest quality premium food-grade stainless steel, highly resistant to rust and break, and easy to clean by hand. It is one classy gift for his Ph.D. defense.

14. Pun Ph.D Defense Mug

This mug is fantastic like every other mug on this gift guide, and here it has a funny mix of words or should I say punned the wordings, it reads “Ph.D. taking your B.S to a new level” you should get the pun there, your receiver would laugh at this and so would others who come across it.

15. Cookies Gift Basket

These festive sandwich cookie nibbles will wow your receiver with their distinct flavors. These visually gorgeous petit fours are alternately dipped in

dark and white chocolate and topped with contrasting toppings that accentuate the creamy chocolate’s excellent flavor. It is one of the nicest and simplest gifts to give your Ph.D. defender!

Wrapping up on Gifts for Ph.D. Defense

Some perfect gifts for Ph.D. defense for anybody could be any mugs here, the relaxation bath bombs, a funny sweatshirt, a box of chocolate, and many others listed here. These gifts are a way to congratulate your receiver for a well-done job and cross a significant milestone.

Say hello to Aunty Vivian, the seasoned soul behind MakeItSpecialGift! With over two decades of gift shop wisdom, this Southern belle from Texas adds a dash of charm to every suggestion. A wife, a mom of three, and a cat lover, Aunty Vivian brings warmth and experience to your gift-giving journey. From Texas to the digital realm, she’s your guide to heartfelt presents and cherished moments. Join the gift adventure with #AuntyVivesGiftWisdom and let her stories unfold in every recommendation! #GiftMaven #SouthernCharm #HeartfeltGiving

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Top 15 Best PhD Graduation Gifts in 2024

I found the very best PhD graduation gifts. Below, I’ll discuss each. This article includes specific PhD graduation gift recommendations. I did my best to include a little bit about why new doctors appreciate each, and I link to where you can find them.

Note that The Grad Cafe is supported by our audience, I regularly use affiliate links throughout. That means I could get a small commission when you order something on this list. Thanks for your support!

Ready to discuss PhD graduation gifts? Read on.

Table of Contents

You Can’t Go Wrong With…

If you’re at a loss thinking about what to buy a Ph.D. graduate as a present, you can’t go wrong with cash, checks, and gift cards.

There’s no denying that PhDs can be incredibly expensive. Just look at the data from EducationData.org , which states that federal graduate student borrowers have $91,148 average loan balances. It doesn’t matter if they earned their degree in person or online — debt is debt. Cutting a check for any amount can help a PhD graduate buy what they need (or want). They can also choose to pay the amount toward their debt.

Of course, giving cash or a check isn’t everyone’s idea of a good present. In that case, you can always give a gift card .

Amazon Gift Cards come in nice packaging, like this graduation gift box.

Amazon allows you to choose your gift card amount,  starting from $25 and going all the way up to $2,000. You can also send your gift card digitally if you’d rather skip the box altogether.

On Amazon, you can also choose gift cards from specific brands. For example, if you’d like to give the gift of tech, you can opt for an Apple gift card between $25-$500. And if you’re looking for PhD graduation gifts for her , try a Sephora gift card  between $25-$250.

Buy a Graduation-Themed Amazon Gift Card

Buy an Apple Gift Card

Buy a Sephora Gift Card

15 Best PhD Graduation Gifts [2024]

Check out these unique, fun gift ideas for a doctoral graduate near and dear to your heart!

1. A Care Package – CRAVEBOX Gourmet Specialty Snack Box

Care packages are an excellent yet practical way to show you care. The CRAVEBOX Gourmet Specialty Snack Box is a 50-piece collection of gourmet snack samplers.

Why a PhD Graduate Would Like It:

Unless your recipient is a picky eater, they’re bound to like something in this package. After all, who wouldn’t want to try new types of snacks? They might even find their new favorite snack in this box!

Of course, you may want to ask about food sensitivities and preferences before choosing a box like this.

Buy the CRAVEBOX Gourmet Specialty Snack Box

2. Presentation Clicker and Pointer – Logitech R500s

The Logitech R500s is a presentation pointer and clicker that works from a 65ft range(20m). It has a red laser and customizable buttons. The R500s connects via a USB dongle/receiver, but it’s also universally compatible, including with Bluetooth.

PhD graduates, especially ones going into an academic or research-based career , will have to give a lot of presentations. A good clicker like this can make their presentations go more smoothly.

Buy the Logitech R500s

3. RocketBook Smart Reusable Notebook Set

The RocketBook has been around for a while, but it’s still a pretty cool product all around. RocketBooks are essentially notebooks with special pages that let you scan and digitally convert notes. They come in various sizes and have reusable pages if you use the Pilot Frixion pen. That’s a win for the planet!

PhD graduates will likely write a lot  of notes in their lifetime. The RocketBook blends old-school handwritten notes with technology, allowing easily scannable and text-convertible notes with the app’s OCR (optical character recognition) feature. Some may find this gift a novelty, but it’s a great way to help the environment!

Buy the RocketBook Smart Reusable Notebook Set

4. Boogie Board Basics Reusable Writing Pad

The Boogie Board is a reusable writing pad for quick notes and reminders at work or home. You can use anything to write on it, as long as it has a dull pointy end. This board is good for 50,000 resets (board clears) — endless use!

This is one of the coolest gift ideas for PhD graduates because it reduces desk clutter and wasted paper.

Buy the Boogie Board Basics Reusable Writing Pad

5 . Mechanical Pencil + Stylus: rOtring 800+

This rOtring mechanical pencil and stylus hybrid lets you switch seamlessly from paper to screen. It’s a well-designed writing instrument that prevents writing fatigue thanks to its hexagonal barrel.

This mechanical pen and stylus combo is one of the best PhD graduation gifts for students . For many, pencils are the writing instrument of choice. rOtring is a known and reliable pencil brand, so there’s no doubt it will provide an enjoyable writing experience — and it’s a breeze to use!

Buy the rOtring 800+ Mechanical Pencil and Stylus

6. Hobonichi Techo 5-Year Diary

The Hobonichi Techo is a well-known planner/diary loved for its sheer quality and flexibility. The Hobonichi Techo 5-Year Diary allows the user to plan and organize up to five years of their lives.

The Hobonichi Techo 5-Year Diary offers PhD graduates an easy way to keep track of their appointments and events — especially if they prefer pen and paper to phone apps.

Buy the Hobonichi Techo 5-Year Diary

7. HidrateSpark PRO Smart Steel Water Bottle

The HidrateSpark PRO Smart Steel Water Bottle keeps you hydrated with its reminder glow. You can even track your water intake through its free app and customize the bottle’s glow lights and light patterns. The best part? It keeps drinks cold for up to 24 hours!

The HidrateSpark PRO bottle makes a great gift for a PhD graduate, especially if they are so busy that they forget to take care of themselves. Dehydration is no joke!

Buy the HidrateSpark PRO Smart Steel Water Bottle

8. Leather Briefcase and Laptop Bag by KomalC

This leather briefcase and laptop bag uses buffalo leather and durable YKK zippers to ensure years and years of use. It fits laptops without being too bulky while still having plenty of room for files, folders, and notebooks.

This KomalC leather briefcase is a high-quality bag a PhD graduate can take with them anywhere. It’s roomy and protects their laptops and important items without being too bulky or uncomfortable.

Buy the Leather Briefcase and Laptop Bag by KomalC

9. Custom Engraved Steel Business Card Case

This beautiful two-tone business card case holds up to 15 business cards. It comes with free personalization, allowing three text lines with up to 25 characters for each line.

PhD graduates often carry business cards. So why not have a nice, engraved case to keep them all in great condition until it’s time to hand them out?

Buy the Custom Engraved Steel Business Card Case

10. Mechanical Retro Style Flip Clock

This retro-style flip clock has a minimalistic design while still displaying the time down to the minute. It has a durable stainless steel frame and ABS plastic cards to ensure longevity. However, it has delicate inner mechanisms, so it’s not the best gift for someone with cats or young children.

This gift is a great conversation starter for your PhD recipient!

Buy the Mechanical Retro Style Flip Clock

11. Sonic Bomb Alarm Clock with Bed Shaker

This alarm clock was made for those who sleep through just about any other alarm. It comes with a shaker that users can put underneath their pillow (or anywhere else where it would make a racket) so the vibrations will wake them up when the alarm rings.

This Sonic Bomb Alarm Clock with Bed Shaker is one of the best PhD graduation gifts for students who sleep like the dead. This alarm clock might help the recipient avoid tardiness, though their sleeping partner might not appreciate it so much!

Buy the Sonic Bomb Alarm Clock with Bed Shaker

12. FlexiSpot Laptop Desk Riser

This laptop desk riser is 27×19 inches — a relatively large desk surface when raised. It has five adjustment settings from 1.8 to 15.9 inches. This Flexispot product allows the user to turn any surface into a standing desk. Make sure you also check the Best Desks for Students .

Sitting all day while working is detrimental to your health. This laptop desk riser is an excellent choice for PhD graduates who spend way too much time at their workstations. And if they don’t want to stand, even the slight elevation of gaze reduces neck strain and back pain.

Buy the FlexiSpot Laptop Desk Riser .

*You can also add the FlexiSpot Anti-Fatigue Mat .

13. FlexiSpot EN1 Electric Height Adjustable Standing Desk

The En1 electric height adjustable desk has a 55×28 inch table top for a spacious work area. It runs quietly while adjusting height smoothly. Users can set the table’s height between 28-47.6 inches. It supports up to 154 lbs, which accommodates even the heaviest workloads.

The EN1 makes is a great PhD graduation gift for the same reason a laptop riser would — it helps your PhD graduate to stand more often, minimizing stress and back pain. This fully electric desk is also quite convenient, without requiring manual adjustments. What better way to kick off your graduate’s high-paying PhD job  than a fabulous new desk?

Buy the FlexiSpot EN1 Electric Height Adjustable Standing Desk

14. Sony WH-1000XM4 Noise Canceling Headphones

The Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones are legendary for great audio quality, comfort, and portability (they fold up to a smaller profile when not in use). It offers ANC (active noise cancellation) and even has built-in Alexa voice control.

If you want to give the gift of peace and focus, this pair of headphones is an incredible choice. While this one’s pricey, you can find other ANC headphones that are more affordable. The XM4s also have a newer version, the XM5 (but these don’t fold up into a smaller profile).

Buy the Sony WH-1000XM4 Noise Canceling Headphones

15. Microsoft Surface Go 3

The Microsoft Surface Go 3 is a tablet that can replace a laptop. It runs on Windows, has a touch screen and decent battery life, and works with a stylus. You can also charge it with a power bank if you run out of juice.

The Microsoft Surface Go 3 is an excellent and pragmatic PhD graduation gift for students because of its productivity capabilities, including responding to emails and word processing. And, of course, it also works well for entertainment purposes. Save this for a loved one — it’s pricy!

Buy the Microsoft Surface Go 3

How Much Should You Spend on PhD Graduation Gifts?

The cost of your PhD gift depends on your relationship with the graduate. It can be anywhere from $10-$300, or maybe even more if you wish — but never spend more than you can afford. Here’s a general guide for how much you might want to spend:

• Acquaintances : <$30
• Friends : $25-$50
• Closest friends and relatives: $50-$100
• Significant others, children, and close loved ones: $100-$300+

Avoid superfluously expensive gifts for people you aren’t close with — that’ll just make them uncomfortable!

Finishing a doctorate is no easy feat — even the online PhDs  take endless hours to complete. Bottom line? Graduating with a PhD is a cause for celebration! And what better way to celebrate your new PhD-holder loved one than with a thoughtful present ?

PhD graduation gifts don’t have to be expensive or luxurious. They can be something as simple as a mug or a shirt with a witty PhD-related message. Doctorate graduation gifts can even be sentimental, like an engraved business card case.

If someone you know recently achieved a PhD (or even an MBA ), this list of the best graduation gifts for PhD students might offer some gift inspiration.

It can be challenging to come up with ideas for PhD graduation gifts, but there’s always a fantastic option out there waiting for you. But remember: if you can’t come up with any ideas that feel right, everyone loves cash or gift cards!

Do you have any other PhD graduation gift suggestions? Leave them in a comment below!

Frequently Asked Questions

What do you give a phd graduate.

The perfect PhD graduation gifts for doctoral graduates depend on your preference — unless the recipient specifically requests something. Cash, checks, and gift cards are popular options but may seem impersonal. Instead, you might give the graduate something pragmatic, like food, or something heartfelt, like a craft. Of course, the 15 suggestions on this list are also great PhD gifts.

What Are Good PhD Graduation Gifts for a University Graduate?

It truly depends — you can give something generic like a mug or shirt with a witty PhD-related saying or something more aligned with your recipient’s interest if you know them well.

What Is the Going Rate for PhD Graduation Gifts?

It really depends on your relationship with the recipient. Gifts can cost anywhere from $10-$300 and sometimes even more. If you’re more an acquaintance than a loved one, choose something on the lower price end to avoid making the recipient uncomfortable.

Is it OK to Give a Check as a PhD Graduation Gift?

Absolutely! Although some people may find checks or cash impersonal, a PhD graduate could probably use the money. After all, they can put it toward student loans or buy something they really need.

Related Reading:

• Top 12 Best Laptops for Graduate Students
• Top 10 Best Jobs for MBA Graduates

5 Ways To Work While Studying And Get Ahead Of The Competition

• How To Prep Your Resume For Success 
• 5 Tips For An Amazing Video Interview

Chriselle Sy

Chriselle has been a passionate professional content writer for over 10 years. She writes educational content for The Grad Cafe, Productivity Spot, The College Monk, and other digital publications.  When she isn't busy writing, she spends her time streaming video games and learning new skills.

• Chriselle Sy https://blog.thegradcafe.com/author/chriselle-sy/ The Best Academic Planners for 2024/2025
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14 Best Gifts for Professors or PhD Advisors (in 2024)

A search for “PhD Advisor Gifts” on Amazon will give you about 45 mugs and 3 t-shirts. Not a strong start. I’ve been through grad school, worked with many professors, and have a good idea of what they would truly appreciate as a thank-you gift. Here’s my hand-picked list below. 

This list is a compilation of my favorites from around the internet. Some are our own Genius Lab Gear inventions and some we’re just jealous we didn’t think of first! Some external links in this page are from affiliates, which means that any purchase of the items after clicking the link will result in a small monetary referral fee paid back to Genius Lab Gear at no cost to you. We appreciate your support which allows us to continue inventing and testing the best tools for scientists on the planet!

1. Academia Word Magnets

Academia is chock full of inside jokes, mannerisms, and cringeworthy habits that professors love to laugh about. These word magnets are designed specifically to let academics rant about their hardships, relish their big wins, and have a good laugh. These are perfect for the office refrigerator or the magnetic whiteboard, where sneaky students can leave passive-aggressive phrases for the advisor to find later. Get them on our site here and bundle them with other field-specific sets based on the professor’s field of study.

Also now available on Amazon .

2. The Pocket Scientist pocket ruler and equation reference

Your favorite PhD adviser will use this unique gift daily (and hopefully always remember you for it)! They can carry this credit card-sized ruler and scientific reference every day in the classroom or lab and use it for sketches in their office. We even laser-engraved the backside full of basic science equations and physical constants. See the product page for a full list of features we've packed in!

Available with free shipping from our website or from Amazon .

The Pocket Scientist at Genius Lab Gear

The Pocket Scientist on Amazon

How to use The Pocket Scientist – Full Feature Guide

P.S. We also have versions specifically for Chemists , Physicists, and Engineers if those are a better fit for the person you have in mind!

3. Rocketbook Beacons to digitize their white board

How many times has your college professor scribbled an amazing brainstorm on a whiteboard and then lost it forever once the next student comes in to talk? 

Rocketbook is well-known for their reusable notebooks which have grids and QR codes built-in to quickly snap photos of and organize hand-written notes digitally. They recently added this GENIUS product to do the same thing with white boards. You put a triangle at each corner, then use their app to snap a photo, and it can flatten the image, enhance the contrast and automatically send it to your favorite note-saving app. Keep those moments of brilliance safe!

4. Funny Coaster Set for Teachers and Professors

Professors and students love to have a good laugh at each others’ expense. Give them the upper hand for once with some funny professor coasters . It’ll protect their desk while they put down their drink between sips, giving them plenty of time to admonish the lab work you didn’t get done this week. 

5. Wireless Laser Pointer and PowerPoint Presenter

Laser pointers are one thing you never think about until the moment you don’t have one that works. I personally own this one because it’s got everything you need, from the pen clip to volume buttons and slide control buttons. DinoFire has several tiers with different features, but you can’t go wrong with any of them. 

6. Smart Coffee Mug Warmer

For the advisor who always has a cup of coffee in-hand but doesn’t have a microwave in their office, this desktop mug warmer will save them time running back and forth several times a day. The best feature is that it turns on and off automatically when a mug is on top so it doesn’t waste energy! 

7. Kensington Ergonomic Vertical Wireless Mouse

Let’s be honest. Most college professors barely make it into the lab now, spending all of their time making presentations and writing grants at their computer. This new vertical mouse design is starting to catch on because it’s more ergonomic for people spending hours upon hours at the computer each day. They’ll thank you for finding such a unique solution that they probably didn’t know existed (and were too frugal to get for themselves). It’s “Treat yo’self” day for your professor. They deserve it. 

8. Lab Coat Pocket Protector

A gift of nostalgic charm that is sure to resonate with their professionalism and accomplished academic life! The venerable Pocket Protector became a cultural icon in the 1960's and 1970's, but somewhere along the way the newer generation of STEM researchers forgot about them. Scientists need these back in their labs to stay organized, stay efficient, protect their lab coats, and finish their experiments without being late to lunch. So we researched and tested every type ever made to methodically solve each problem and come up with this refreshed design . Available in spruce green, sapphire blue, and faded pink - the top 3 colors voted on by our fans! You can even get it from our Amazon page if that's easier.

9. Novium Hoverpen 2.0

If your PhD advisor loves physics, astronomy, space, or technology then they will definitely appreciate having this on their desk. It’s a high-end refillable magnetic pen that hovers perfectly at an angle using magnets on all sides. The Novium Hoverpen 2.0 even spins in place for a mesmerizing power move when a student comes to office hours. 

10. Personal Aeropress or Pour-Over Coffeemaker

If the office coffee is notoriously bad, the professor would definitely enjoy having a private stash and means to make single cups. I own both of these and use them all the time. The Aeropress makes the quickest, easiest single-cup you’ll find. You just need a way to heat up the water and a stash of their small round filters. There’s even a whole ecosystem of organizers for the Aeropress like this little bamboo desktop cabinet .  A Chemex Pour-over is good for 2-3 cup batches but takes a little more time and effort. 

11. Canvas Reusable Lunch Bag

For the professor who cares about conservation and sustainability, a top-notch reusable lunch bag will be a perfect fit . It’s double-stitched for strength, waterproof, and has no tiny pieces that could break off. Simple, casual, and sustainable. It’s always going to be appreciated. 

12. Scientist Quote Desktop Canvas

We're super proud of our little series of famous scientist quotes on canvas prints . These are 5"x7" and sit up easily on their own or can be mounted to a wall. This one sits next to me as I write, and helps me keep a sense of humility as I explore the unknown! 

13. Rat mood chart canvas print

Anyone who works with "rodent models" knows the struggle. Our Rat Mood Chart canvas print is a funny-but-sad-but-true representation of the what these little heroes go through in the name of science. 

14. Professor Gift Bundle

If you can't decide by now, I can still help! Consider this decision made. I put together a Professor/PhD Advisor Gift Bundle just to make it easy for you. The gift set includes the Pocket tool and Word Magnets from above, plus a few fun science stickers. You'll save over 20% by bundling them together, so consider this decision made!

• The Pocket Scientist ruler and equation reference
• Academia Word Magnets
• Science Basics Word Magnets
• Starter Word Magnets (144 tiles of connector words)
• Marie Curie sticker
• Science is for Everyone sticker
• Einstein quote sticker

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQS):

What is the best gift for professors and phd advisors.

It can be quite a daunting task to find one in this vast sea of products where there’s just no shortage of options. However, you’re in for a treat as we’ve handpicked them for you:

• The Pocket Scientist pocket ruler and equation reference
• Physics Word Magnets for the fridge or office decor
• Rocketbook Beacons to digitize their white board
• Funny Coaster set for Teachers and Professors
• Wireless Laser pointer and Powerpoint presenter
• Smart Coffee Mug Warmer
• Kensington Ergonomic Vertical Wireless Mouse
• Pocket Protector for lab coats
• Novium Hoverpen 2.0
• Personal Aeropress or Pour-over Coffee Maker
• Canvas Reusable Lunch Bag
• Scientist Quote Desktop Canvas
• Rat Mood Chart Canvas Print
• Professor Gift Bundle

Derek Miller

Gifts Lists by Major

Scientist Gifts

Astrophysics Gifts

Biology Gifts

Biochemistry Gifts

Chemistry Gifts

Ecology Gifts

Geology Gifts

Genetics Gifts

Immunology Gifts

Mathematics Gifts

Marine Biology Gifts

Neuroscience Gifts

Microbiology Gifts

Pharmacy Student Gifts

Physics Teacher Gifts

Physicist Gifts

Chemistry Teacher Gifts

Professor and PhD Advisor Gifts

Graduate and PhD Student Gifts

Women in Science Gifts

Science Teacher Gifts

Biology Teacher Gifts

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7 Best Gifts for PhD Students (By a PhD Student!)

Chris Drew (PhD)

Dr. Chris Drew is the founder of the Helpful Professor. He holds a PhD in education and has published over 20 articles in scholarly journals. He is the former editor of the Journal of Learning Development in Higher Education. [Image Descriptor: Photo of Chris]

Learn about our Editorial Process

My Top Pick: Care Package

Hi! I’m Chris. I’ve got a PhD, so I know allll about what it feels like to be going through the PhD process. I’ve listed some gift ideas I think would be great for a male or female PhD student. Here’s my list.

The best gift ideas for PhD students are:

• Care Package
• Messenger Bag
• PowerPoint Presentation Clicker & Laser Pointer
• Academic Career Guide Book
• Leather Bound Notebook

Looking for a Graduation Gift?

Best Gifts for PhD Students

1. care package.

Quick Review: A care package is best for a PhD student living away from home for college. Let them know you’re thinking about them and give them a bunch of study snacks!

Why a PhD Student would Like it:

A care package lets someone know you are thinking about them. It doesn’t have to be a special occasion for you to gift a care package – it’s great for a mid-winter pick-me-up. But, of course it’d also be a fitting gift for a birthday or Christmas, too. Care packages that have a range of snacks are great for students because we all like to snack while we study. I particularly like this CraveBox package as it’s much healthier than competitor. They have carefully picked out a diverse range of snacks that won’t show on the hips!

See my Full List of College Care Packages Here

2. Book Ends

Quick Review: PhD students read a lot of books. Brighten up their bookshelf with these classy bookends.

PhD students read books . A lot of books. When I was a PhD student I was going through about 3 books a week – philosophy, social sciences, methodologies, theories … books, books and more books. So bookends is a relevant and classy gift. They will also brighten up a doctoral student’s office or bookshelf. Do they seem like they need a little more decoration in their office? If so, here is the gift you’ll want to get!

3. Messenger Bag

Quick Review: PhD students are always carrying documents and textbooks around. Get them a classy messenger bag to brighten up their wardrobe.

A messenger bag is a popular style of bag for college students and professors (vis-a-vis Ted Moseby of  How I met your Mother ). Perhaps this is because college students and teachers are always carrying documents and textbooks around. If they’re also a teaching assistant, chances are they’ll be carrying around stacks of undergrad papers, too. If you like the idea of a messenger bag but want to shop different styles, check my full list of my favorite messenger bags for college students .

Related Post: Best Headphones for Studying at College

4. PowerPoint Presentation Clicker & Lader Pointer

Quick Review: PhD students give a lot of presentations. They present their research – but also give many lectures to undergrads. Get them a practical presentation clicker with laser pointer.

PhD students need to give presentations – and a lot of them. We have to give presentations about the progress of our research. Plus, we’re constantly asked to give guest lectures on our work to undergraduate students. Then, we go to conferences – where we do even more presentations.

A clicker helps you give your presentation as you can switch slides while walking around the stage. With this one, you can also use the lazer pointer to point out aspects of your presentation or slides that you want to highlight. It’s a great gadget for any PhD student (or professor, for that matter!).

5. Academic Career Guide Book

Quick Review: Getting an academic job after completing your PhD is incredibly difficult. There is 1 job for every 7 graduates. Give them a leg up with an advice book.

In the final year of my PhD, I spent a lot of time stressing about how I would get a job. This book helped me out hugely with tips on how to network and get a job. This book will help a PhD student fund out how to get a tenure-track position or a postdoc that will pay their way. It’s a book that can sit on the bookshelf and be browsed when needed.

6. Leather Bound Notebook

Quick Review: We’re always taking notes at meetings and conferences So get that PhD student a lovely leather bound notebook!

To be honest, I am always carrying around scruffy-looking $1.50 notebooks. I’d love a nice looking notebook like this instead. The great thing about this specific notebook is that it’s refillable – so I can fit those ugly $1.50 notebooks inside the leather binding and keep burning through them – while still having a classy looking notebook instead of my usual dog-eared notepads.

7. Funny Mug

Quick Review: There are tons of mugs out there with PhD themed quotes and images you can browse for, especially on Amazon. One example is below.

Let’s face it, most of us get through our PhD on a very healthy dose of coffee. Grab the PhD student a themed mug for them to place by their desk or in the office. And while you’re at it, why not head to your local coffee roaster and pair this mug gift with a bag of high-quality grinds.

Final Thoughts

I hope this list of the best gifts for PhD students has given you some inspiration! If you feel you’ve still not found quite the right gift, consider checking out my list of gift ideas for undergraduates . You could also consider a college board game .

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25 Practical Gifts for Grad & PhD Students in 2022

TheGiftYak curates unique gifts and is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission. Learn more .

You’re proud of your graduate and PhD students. Show them just how much you care, with gifts that are a bit fun and a bit practical. Whether they’re working on their dissertation or your doctoral students are simply elbows deep in research, you are sure to find just the right gift on a list that’s almost as smart as they are.

Related Gift Lists:

2023 BEST Unique Gifts for PhD Students (From a Grad Student)

If you are looking for the perfect gifts for phd students. Now, you have come to the right place. Many may find it better to give graduate students cash, but there are others they will use better. So what’s the best gift for getting a Ph.D.?

Universities are tough and put a lot of pressure on students, but it’s worth it not only in terms of work opportunities but also in terms of personal pride. The feeling of getting this degree goes beyond any good feeling your students have. it’s good.

Your new Ph.D. student deserves the recognition and welcome of your qualified loved ones for their dedication and effort. Good job! Take a look and find items that you think are “I’m proud of you”.

This article details over 23 of the best gifts for PhD students. If you want to see which items made our list, read on.

Read Also: 23+ Amazing Gift Ideas For Male Teachers

Best 23+ Unique Gifts for PhD Students List Below

This list is usually sorted from cheapest to highest (with exceptions) and is described below.

11oz PhD Definition Coffee Mug

Lunch Bag Insulated Lunch Box

Leather Briefcase Messenger Bag

Luxury Gift Box for Female

Round World of Coffee Package

Woman’s briefcase in oil-waxed leather

Premium fountain pen in rose gold

Samsung Galaxy Smart Watch

Digital Course Recorder

Full HD Laptop with Touchscreen

Apple watch 6

Laptop Table

Wireless Phone Charging and USB Port

Vintage Bluetooth Vinyl Turntable

Popular Strategy Board Game

Reserve a Dart Line Marker

Dissertation Two Tone Mug

Black Gold Funny Ph.inisheD Coffee Mugs

PopSockets Gift Wrap

Cartman 39-Piece Pink Tool Set

Paper Pillow

Ph.D. student t-shirt

PhD. T- shirt

How to choose a gift for a Ph.D. student

Considering range of things we can offer PhD students, it is always essential to know at least a few tips when choosing one. Here are some tips to keep in mind when shopping for graduate gifts to help you understand what to consider when making a purchase.

1. Make it an Unforgettable Gift

As a Ph.D. student, you probably can’t think of anything else, especially when you’re under pressure. So, as a giver. You should give a gift that you will remember, as well as motivational or a sentimental gift that can overcome the challenges of daily study or that can be used after graduation etc.

2. Know what your students really need

Before you make a decision on what gift you’re about to give, make sure it’s what he really needs. Giving a very functional gift in the studio was a big help and they are very grateful for it. So get in the habit of observing your students before buying or giving them gifts.

3. Do it Yourself

Handmade personalized gifts are highly rated for what they have purchased. It means that you put a lot of effort into the gift you are giving and that this person is very important to you. Making a DIY gift can also be a lot of fun (on the part of the donor).

4. Be Practical

Gifts don’t have to be expensive as long as you spend a lot of time thinking about giving gifts. As a graduate student, receiving a gift from your teacher is already a dream come true, but what is important next? When giving a gift, monetary value is not important as long as it comes from the heart.

5. Personalize the gifts

It’s always good to have a personalized gift. T-shirts, umbrellas, mugs or whatever your Ph.D. student has to offer to help you deal with everyday stress. But make sure that what you put in the object helps them gain self-confidence and focus more on the chosen path.

Print between motivational quotes, memorable pictures and Bible passages. Anything that can make them happy using it or watching it.

Read Also: 30+ Unique & Useful Good Gifts For Medical Students

Things to Consider when Finding Gifts for Ph.D. Students

Materials that students have.

A factor to consider when purchasing a PHD. A good gifts for phd students is the type of material they have. If your student has expressed pain about how many papers they need to catch up, a stylish bookend or reusable notebook for their book would be a great gifts for phd students.

If your PHD student always has a favorite drink while in school, the above coffee cup warmer is a great gift. Remembering the materials that students always have is the key to making a wonderful gift that is sure to please them.

Another thing that you want to consider before buying a gift is your budget.

Fortunately, all of the above include low to mid-priced items. Whether you are looking for a cheap gift like a business card holder or investing in a more expensive gift like a weighted blanket, there are plenty of options available.

FAQ about gifts for PhD students

What do phd students need.

Tools for their business. Think about what their gifts for PHD student. He is inside and buys them a gift that reflects him. I recently bought all of my kids Seagate backups for external drives. They all opened it and asked, “What is this? Neither of them thought it was a useful gift. It’s hard to imagine that not everyone has it around a month after they start using it and realize its value. Recent medical graduates will love that you don’t have to worry about losing all your work, photos, or whatever you have on your computer. The best gift ever! Give one and get one!

Helping out around the house would be a great gift as they’re as busy as they are writing a thesis, so an efficient and easy-to-use DEEBOT robot vacuum is a great gift idea. I love vacuum cleaners. Your recent PhD students will love the time savings! Something that we sometimes have little. The DEEBOT robot vacuum is quiet and works with Alexia. Yes it is. Just order whatever you want to do with the new little helper. A truly powerful gift.

What gifts can a professor give to a PhD. student?

Due to the small number of PhD programs in nature, professors can easily show compassion by giving a farewell gift at the end of the semester without breaking the bank. Some of the gifts that a professor can give to graduate students are:

• Pen case with monogram
• Water bottle / glass
• Simple memories

What other unique gifts can you give to your PHD students?

If you are still not happy with the gift list we have covered here. We have our own list of alternative gifts for php students. Here is a list of unique gifts to consider giving to PhD students:

• Gift Certificates
• Electronic gadget
• Relaxation gifts (masseur, reservation of a day at the spa, etc.)
• A creative online store where you can buy personalized PhD gifts
• Handmade gifts (party, evening, baked goods, etc.)

Looking for the perfect Ph.D. Think about gifts that are off the beaten path. What He Likes Do they wear a lot of t-shirts that reflect their personality and thoughts or do they like large coffee mugs? Look around and see what they need. How to transport office supplies or their trading tools. I love to give gifts for phd students. Sweatshirts are a great gift for PhD Female Student . The power of self-esteem is visible to everyone. You must add it to your wish list and buy Ph.D. Hoodie for your students !!!

If you’re working on your bachelor’s degree and don’t know what to get your graduates to offer, offer them an Amazon Gift card so they can choose what they want or really need. You can’t go wrong as this is exactly what they wanted.

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Is it appropriate to buy a "thank you" gift for a PhD supervisor?

I am nearing the end of my PhD and I would quite like to buy a "thank you" gift for my supervisor (although, she's the socially awkward type who I'm sure will be greatly embarrassed to receive one).

I'm just wondering whether a gift is the done thing? And if so, what sort of gift seems appropriate? I suppose a bottle of wine would be a safe choice?

• social-skills

• 3 This question ( academia.stackexchange.com/questions/23884/… ) may be of interest as it is asked from the supervisor point of view. –  gman Commented Sep 8, 2014 at 9:22
• 6 "she's the socially awkward type who I'm sure will be greatly embarrassed to receive one" - then perhaps it would be better to have the gift sent to her office, rather than presenting it in person. –  mhwombat Commented Sep 8, 2014 at 12:05
• 10 @mhwombat: possibly; but it’s also quite possible for someone to be embarrassed at a public gesture of thanks/appreciation, while still appreciating it and being very grateful for it. –  PLL Commented Sep 8, 2014 at 16:01

9 Answers 9

After your defense, and final submission to the university; you can give the gift, with a thank you note. Right before your defense is a big no, in my opinion.

• 5 I'd go with Dave Rose's answer. Currently I'm preparing my defence (should take place in February if things go as scheduled). Once I'm done - and independently from the result - I will invite my supervisor with his wife and children for a good dinner to say thanks. After all he had a lot of work and even if he gets paid for doing things like this in general, he doesn't get paid anything in addition for the efforts he did for me. –  Patric Hartmann Commented Sep 8, 2014 at 10:11
• 15 I think inviting your supervisor and/or committee members out to a nice dinner, perhaps along with your own family members, is a very nice choice. On the one hand, this is a very positive way to bring closure to a multi-year relationship. On the other, among academics I know, enjoying good food is much more universal than a proclivity towards any one material good. –  Pete L. Clark Commented Sep 8, 2014 at 23:51
• 1 This is the right answer, but the real shame is having to ask! Yes, gift (and not right before defense), and if you don't know something very specific to give her or him at this point, they've sold you very short. ;^) You haven't said the field, but, eg, a signed book from one of your and their favorite/most cited authors/theorists or their advisor? –  ruffin Commented Sep 9, 2014 at 20:27

This might be a location dependent question, but in NW Europe a bottle of wine is appropriate for such and even lesser events.

Many campus shops offer a standardized wine bottle in a gift wrap with the name of the university printed on it. They are the obvious choice, but there is plenty of room for creativity.

As others have already written, a gift is appropriate only after you are completely done. In my case, that was after the registrar had notified me that my application for degree had been approved by the program office.

I had asked my supervisor a couple of probably unsubtle questions after the defense, and sent (to his home, not to the university) two bottles of wine that would have been hard for him to find and a pretty nice decanter. I also sent three small (very low three figures) checks to the university, one in honor of each committee member, so each should have gotten a letter stating that a gift had been made in his name.

(I'm in the United States.)

• 20 very low three figures x3 is small??? –  ff524 Commented Sep 7, 2014 at 20:48
• 11 I don't think the gift is supposed to be comparable to the cost of the doctorate –  ff524 Commented Sep 7, 2014 at 21:11
• 21 If you look through the answerer's webpage, you can find this page scis.nova.edu/~robebrow which shows that he received his PhD at a relatively late age and after many years of gainful employment. This may help to explain what to many 20-something PhDs looks a bit on the extravagant side. (As a PhD advisor, I feel very tempted to add: maybe he is just a more gracious person....But in all sincerity, gifts totaling more than $100 from any one student would probably make me uncomfortable.) –  Pete L. Clark Commented Sep 7, 2014 at 21:19
• 11 Do note that a gift to the university is a gesture of thanks that benefits the committee member not at all. In fact, the committee member probably doesn't even know the amount, just gets an acknowledgment from the school's development office. –  Bob Brown Commented Sep 7, 2014 at 23:59
• 7 @Bob: I was thinking more about the wine and the decanter than the university gifts. Also -- although I need to be clear that I am not in any way criticizing your choice, which was admirably gracious and generous -- I would not personally be especially pleased in hearing that some student made a donation to my employer in my name. Most universities I know have endowments of such magnitude that a three figure gift is truly negligible. I would much rather have a donation made to the charitable organization of my choice. I don't claim anything more than personal preference here... –  Pete L. Clark Commented Sep 8, 2014 at 4:51

The appropriateness would depend on the culture. In Sweden it is customary for advisor and advisee to exchange presents. Usually, they consist on things like a fine vase of pottery. Personally, I would go for something that is somehow related to your research. For example, a pathologist expert in chimeric cells got custom made necklace and earrings with chimeras, and was greatly appreciated (and not only saying it because my mother made it!). In my opinion, originality is what counts most.

And you can always do it privately to avoid her the embarrassment.

Following the defense, a small token of appreciation would not be inappropriate. However, this should not be a substantial gift, as even after the defense, it could be viewed as a quid pro quo arrangement.

I took my adviser out for a steak dinner at the finest restaurant in town. I'm told that I was the first to do so (other students bought him a box of red pens, etc.), but cherish the occasion. One of my happiest memories is this occasion, enjoying each other's company as equals, after having completed a long/hard joint project.

As a new assistant professor, I feel awkward whenever my students offer me gifts. I am sure they have the best of intentions, but potential implications and potential alterior motives are enough to make me uncomfortable.

I am sure this is culture dependent as some of the other answers have suggested, but I would recommend going with the local culture of the deparment and former graduates(if any)

In my case it was a bottle of cognac, of course after the defense. I brought it to my supervisor's home. It was in Russia 18 years ago, I believe nowadays it is still nice/appropriate gesture.

It completely depends on:

• The kind of relationship you have with your advisor/supervisor and
• The extent to which s/he has gone out of their way to help you over the course of your Ph.D.

In most cases I would say no, because you are the underpaid employee and s/he is sort-of the boss, or at least the representative of the university. Would you give your supervisor at work a gift after finishing a significant project? Probably not.

PS - It's true that it's not your advisor who decides that Ph.D. salaries be low, but then, that's usually true for your supervisor at a regular job.

• 1 This answer seems to be from the perspective of a field in which Ph.D. students work as part of some team for their advisor. In many areas, advisors are (at least supposed to be) givers, not takers. –  Michael Greinecker Commented Feb 15, 2018 at 13:23
• @MichaelGreinecker: Even if you work outside of a team - you work for a university, producing originall research. So, as a Ph.D. candidate, you're a giver. You do get some mentoring, advice, supervision - but you put in years of work. –  einpoklum Commented Feb 15, 2018 at 13:53

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The gifts they actually want!

20 Thank You Gifts for PhD Advisor

Disclosure of Material Connection: Some of the links in this post may be "affiliate links." This means if you click on the link and purchase an item, I will receive an affiliate commission. Disclosure in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's  16 CFR, Part 255 . This site is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon .

All of these thoughtful thank you gifts for PhD advisor will mean so much. Your PhD advisor has helped you through the process, even if sometimes the “help” didn’t feel so helpful! Now is an excellent time to get them a thank you gift to show how much you appreciate their guidance and mentoring! There are so many awesome gifts to choose from!

Awesome Thank You Gifts For PhD Advisor

Any PhD advisor would love these terrific gifts! 

“Thank you for helping me grow” Tree Necklace with Birthstone

Thank you, PhD advisor, for helping you grow into the fantastic PhD you have become with this tree necklace, and you can even personalize it with their birthstone!

“Yoda best mentor” Mug

If they love Star Wars, they will really enjoy this “Yoda best mentor” mug to drink their morning coffee from each day.

“The greatest gift you can give someone is your time” Art Collage

They gave you the greatest gift they could ever give: their time!

“A lot of people have gone further than they thought they could because someone else thought they could” Notebook

Because of your PhD advisor, you have gotten a lot further than you thought you could on your own!

“This is what an AWESOME mentor looks like” Shirt

They are the epitome of an excellent mentor, and now they can let everyone know, everywhere they go, with this shirt.

“You make a difference” Keychain

Remind them that through all of the complaining you did and the frustration they might have felt, they have continuously made a difference in your PhD journey.

“If your dreams don’t scare you, they aren’t big enough. -Richard Branson” Print

If this is something your PhD advisor told you all the time, that you need to set dreams that scare you, then they need this print. You can print it up, put it in a frame, and give it to them to hang up on their office wall.

Inspiration Soy Candle

Help them feel more inspired with an “Inspiration” soy candle.

“Soul Model” Mug

They are not just a role model; they are a “Soul” model!

“Good vibes only” Air Plant

A great reminder to them to stay positive, and to have a plant that has minimal requirements in their office.

“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another. Proverbs 27:17.” in Float Frame

If they are a person of faith, this verse really describes what they have done for you and so many others in their PhD journeys.

Personalized Wooden Pen

When nothing feels like the “right” gift, perhaps a personalized wooden pen will!

“Mentoring is kind of my thing” Tumbler

Their thing as an advisor is to mentor, teach, and guide. Perfect gift for Phd advisor! 

“Challenge, inspire, motivate” Christmas Ornament

If you are getting them a thank you gift close to Christmas; this ornament makes for a great gift.

Tree of Life Earrings

This beautiful tree of life earrings will remind them that the work they do is priceless and helps so many people grow.

“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world. -Nelson Mandala” Print

Education is a powerful weapon; the more we are educated and use that education, the better the world will be.

“Beautiful minds inspire others” Necklace

Beautiful minds, especially like the one inside your PhD advisor’s head, inspire others.

Funny Wood Bookmark

For the bookworm PhD advisor, this funny wood bookmark will inspire them to continue reading, even when things get chaotic.

“Don’t make me use my PhD voice” Shirt

You never want them to use their PhD voice, whether they are your advisor or not. It is too intense!

“Consultant, advisor, specialist, mentor, confidant, partner, helper” Mug

They were more than an advisor to you; they were also a consultant, mentor, confidant, and helper!

Your PhD advisor will appreciate any gift you choose to give them as a thank you, especially one that will make them smile and feel inspired to keep advising others after you.

About The Author

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what do you want to receive after your thesis defense?

Not sure if this is the right place to post, please remove if not :)

My boyfriend will finally be completing his PhD after his thesis defense next week 🤞🏻 hopefully it will be a smooth one. Sooo I'm thinking is there anything thoughtful I can do for him after he successful defended his thesis and I can't think of a good plan :/

What are some gifts or actions that you'd like to receive after your final defense? Can be anything handmade, a present, or maybe food idk? Appreciate any help!!

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• The exportation from the U.S., or by a U.S. person, of luxury goods, and other items as may be determined by the U.S. Secretary of Commerce, to any person located in Russia or Belarus. A list and description of ‘luxury goods’ can be found in Supplement No. 5 to Part 746 under the Federal Register.
• Items originating outside of the U.S. that are subject to the U.S. Tariff Act or related Acts concerning prohibiting the use of forced labor.

In order to protect our community and marketplace, Etsy takes steps to ensure compliance with sanctions programs. For example, Etsy prohibits members from using their accounts while in certain geographic locations. If we have reason to believe you are operating your account from a sanctioned location, such as any of the places listed above, or are otherwise in violation of any economic sanction or trade restriction, we may suspend or terminate your use of our Services. Members are generally not permitted to list, buy, or sell items that originate from sanctioned areas. This includes items that pre-date sanctions, since we have no way to verify when they were actually removed from the restricted location. Members are also generally not permitted to ship items to or from sanctioned areas. Etsy reserves the right to request that sellers provide additional information, disclose an item's country of origin in a listing, or take other steps to meet compliance obligations. It is important that members provide complete and accurate information regarding the origin of items on the Etsy marketplace to ensure compliance with sanctions programs. We may disable listings or cancel transactions that present a risk of violating this policy.

In addition to complying with OFAC and applicable local laws, Etsy members should be aware that other countries may have their own trade restrictions and that certain items may not be allowed for export or import under international laws. You should consult the laws of any jurisdiction when a transaction involves international parties.

Finally, Etsy members should be aware that third-party payment processors, such as PayPal, may independently monitor transactions for sanctions compliance and may block transactions as part of their own compliance programs. Etsy has no authority or control over the independent decision-making of these providers.

The economic sanctions and trade restrictions that apply to your use of the Services are subject to change, so members should check sanctions resources regularly. For legal advice, please consult a qualified professional.

Resources: US Department of the Treasury ; Bureau of Industry and Security at the US Department of Commerce ; US Department of State ; European Commission

Last updated on May 15, 2024