26 Graduation Announcements
Graduation season feels a little like New Year’s Eve—it’s exciting, bittersweet, and comes with a lot of glitter (and maybe a few tears from proud moms).
And if you’re here, you’re probably thinking: How the heck do I announce this milestone without sounding like a boring Hallmark card? Don’t worry—I’ve got you.
I’ve rounded up 26 graduation announcement ideas that are stylish, creative, and actually fun.
Whether you’re into minimal chic, funny one-liners, or something your grandma can proudly tape on her fridge, you’ll find something here.
And yes, I’ll sprinkle in some personal faves and hot takes along the way.
1. Classic Photo Card
Let’s start with the obvious. A classic photo announcement never fails. One good photo, your name, and “Class of 2025.”
Simple, timeless, and guaranteed fridge-worthy.
Pro tip: Pick a photo where you actually look like yourself. I once used a super glam graduation pic, and my uncle legit asked, “Who’s this?” :/
2. Minimalist Typography
If you’re not big on photos, a bold typography design screams modern sophistication. Think: big block letters with your name and grad year.
No frills, no fluff—just vibes.
3. School Spirit Theme
Deck it out in your school’s colors. Add a logo or mascot, and boom—your announcement doubles as free advertising for your alma mater.
Go Wildcats!
4. Foil-Stamped Announcements
Want to look extra fancy? Foil stamping adds that little glimmer of “Yes, I’m smart and classy.”
Gold, silver, or rose gold—you’ll look like you spent way more than you did.
5. Polaroid Style
This is for my retro-loving friends. Print your announcement to look like a Polaroid snapshot.
It feels casual, cool, and perfect for anyone who lives for nostalgia.
6. Collage Layout
Can’t pick just one photo? I feel you. Do a collage announcement with a mix of senior pics, candid shots, and maybe even a baby photo for the “look how far I’ve come” effect.
7. Announcement with Quote
Pair your announcement with a quote that hits home. Maybe something inspirational… or maybe a little sarcastic, like: “I graduated.
Now I’m smart enough to know I’m broke.”
8. Handwritten Fonts
Skip the stiff fonts and go for something hand-lettered or script-style. It feels personal, like you signed each card (without actually having to sign 100+ cards).
9. Black-and-White Chic
If color feels too loud, go black-and-white for a sleek, timeless vibe.
Add a pop of metallic foil, and suddenly your announcement looks like it belongs in a design magazine.
10. Funny Meme Style
Who says graduation announcements can’t be funny? Drop your news with a meme-inspired layout. Picture your face with a caption like:
“Me: Graduated. Bank account: still crying.”
11. Instagram-Inspired
We’re all scrolling anyway, so why not make your announcement look like a social media post? Add “likes,” a caption, and hashtags. #Finally
12. Newspaper Theme
Print it like a mini newspaper headline: “Breaking News: Sarah Graduates!” Bonus points if you add a fake “interview” quote from your parents.
13. Postcard Style
Keep it casual and send out postcard announcements. Easy to mail, budget-friendly, and perfect if you’d rather spend money on the after-party.
14. Watercolor Background
For the artsy grads, a watercolor design feels fresh and unique. Soft colors + clean text = chef’s kiss.
15. Destination-Themed
Graduating in one city but moving to another? Design your card with maps, compasses, or travel vibes to show off your next adventure.
16. Announcement + Party Invite Combo
Save yourself the hassle. Send one card that says: “I graduated. Also, come eat cake.” IMO, the perfect multitasker.
17. Bold Monogram
Use your initials as the star of the show. A big monogram design feels bold and confident—just like you strutting across the stage in your gown.
18. Rustic Kraft Paper
For the farmhouse-aesthetic crowd, kraft paper announcements with twine or floral designs feel warm and personal. Plus, they’re eco-chic.
19. Announcement Bookmark
Want to be remembered every time someone reads? Send a bookmark-style announcement. Functional and creative. (Grandma’s Bible study group will love it.)
20. QR Code Twist
We’re living in 2025, folks. Add a QR code that links to a graduation video, TikTok, or your LinkedIn. It’s futuristic but fun.
21. Glitter & Glam
If subtlety isn’t your thing, go full glam with glitter designs. Warning: might cause temporary blindness from sparkle overload. 😉
22. Themed Around Your Major
Engineer? Add blueprint designs. Artist? Go colorful and bold. Music major? Add notes and staves. Show off your major in the announcement itself.
23. Eco-Friendly Digital Announcement
Go green (and save $$) with a digital announcement. Send via email, text, or even group chat. Bonus: zero trips to the post office. 🙂
24. Animated E-Card
Take digital up a notch. Create a fun animated e-card with moving text or confetti. Way more fun than a boring “Congrats” email.
25. Announcement with Timeline
Show your journey: from kindergarten to cap and gown. A timeline-style announcement reminds everyone how much work you put in (and how long it took).
26. Custom Illustration
Hire an artist (or use your own skills) to design a personal illustration of you in your cap and gown. It’s unique, personal, and way more original than a stock photo.
Quick Tips for Choosing the Right Announcement
Still overwhelmed? Here’s my cheat sheet:
- Budget-conscious? Go postcards, digital, or collage.
- Extra fancy? Foil, black-and-white chic, or custom illustrations.
- Funny personality? Meme style, sarcastic quotes, or Instagram-inspired.
- Eco-friendly soul? Digital or recycled paper designs.
At the end of the day, your announcement should feel like you. Don’t stress too much—your friends and family will just be thrilled you made it through.
Wrapping It Up
Graduation announcements are more than just pieces of paper (or pixels on a screen). They’re a little snapshot of your personality, your style, and your big accomplishment. Whether you go for funny memes, classic photo cards, or glitter-bomb glam, the best announcement is the one that makes you smile when you send it out.
So go ahead—pick your style, send those babies out, and get ready for the flood of “Congrats!” texts. And hey, if anyone asks how you pulled off such a creative idea, just say you had help. 😉
