Thoughtful congratulations gift ideas for exam season

26 May 2022

Gift Ideas Gifts

Say ‘well done on your achievement’ with these congratulation gift ideas for this year’s exam period

Exams can be stressful! Whether your loved one is doing their GCSEs, A-Levels, uni exams, driving test, or any other assessments, a ‘well done’ present is always welcome. But what’s the best way to congratulate someone on their achievement? We’ve put together a list of thoughtful congratulations gift ideas perfect for giving students a boost after their exams.

Students studying for an exam

Congratulations gift ideas for GCSE students

Getting through GCSEs marks a big change in a teenager’s life. The exam period can be a stressful time and they may be longing for that long summer holiday! You might be looking for a token of affection to say well done for getting through the revision or a big exam congratulations gift for results day.

A gift experience

Why not treat your friend or loved one to a fun day out or unusual experience before they head back into education? From afternoon tea to a Bean to Bar Chocolate Making workshop, there are plenty of fun activities that will leave them with wonderful memories (and maybe a tasty goodie bag, too).

One of our Chocolate Experience Gift Cards will give them the freedom to book an event when it works best for them.

Jewellery

A thoughtful accessory or item of jewellery makes another lovely congratulations gift. Look for something that will suit the recipient’s style and be something they can treasure forever.

A coffee mug

Whether the student in your life is going on to do A-Levels or taking on work as an apprentice, a good-quality coffee mug will put them in good stead for the next stage of education. You could consider a fun, novelty design or something personalised. Or how about a timeless, elegant style like our Ceramic Cups?

And if you’re feeling extra generous, you could add a pack of delectable coffee beans, too. Would they prefer the mellow, baked brioche notes of our Cashmere variety or something bolder, like our Rocket blend?

Close-up of person studying with a mug of coffee

A-Level exam gifts

It can feel like the pressure’s really on during the A-level exam season. If you know someone who needs a little pat on the back after completing their assessments, here are a few A-level congratulations gift ideas.

Pamper gifts

What better way to unwind after A-level exams than with some botanical beauty products? Let all thoughts melt away with the delicate fragrance of a Cacao & Vanilla Votive Candle — perfect for a candlelit bath.

Alternatively, body lotions and hand creams with heavenly scents are also sure to calm and revive. Take a look at our Cacao and Wild Honey Hand Cream — ideal for refreshing hands after all that writing and typing.

Kitchen gadgets

Will your giftee be heading off to university soon? Get them set for life in halls with some handy kitchen gadgets. You could keep it functional with a top-notch toaster or kettle. But why not add a touch of luxury? After all, they’ve worked so hard!

Our Velvetiser hot chocolate maker and Podster coffee machine make an ideal duo. Your recipient will be able to whip up barista-grade drinks in the comfort of their own home. Who says student life needs to be basic? Add in a box of irresistible hot chocolate sachets to get them started.

A sophisticated box of chocolates

Can you really go wrong with a box of elegant chocolates? We may be a little biased but we say that’s a resounding ‘no.’ Find a box of high-cacao chocolates to suit every taste. 

Our Milk to Caramel Sleekster is a sure-fire winner for anyone who adores the mellow creaminess of milk chocolate. However, in our congratulations range and exam collection you’ll find dessert-inspired patisserie selections, Exuberantly Fruity varieties, and even some Tipsy Truffles (for over 18s only, of course).

There’s something for everyone!

Degree level exam gifts

Whether your giftee is in their first year or their graduation is just around the corner, here are some treats to give them a boost after their exams or assessments.

A tipsy treat

Nothing beats a classic bottle of bubbly. And what better time to celebrate than at the end of your university year? Alternatively, you could treat your student pal to something a little bit different.

Our Espresso Martini Velvetised Cream is perfect for sipping slowly on the rocks or blending into an irresistible cocktail. A combination of premium vodka, coffee, white chocolate and real cream is given a whirl in our revolutionary Velvetiser. The result? An indulgently smooth and satisfying tipple.

A classy tin of Pink Champagne Truffles also makes for an elegant exam gift. Each melt-in-the-mouth bite is brimming with real Mercier Champagne, cream and milk chocolate, with a natural blush of strawberry.

Bottle of champagne and three champagne glasses

A photo frame

Undergrad, Masters or phD — whichever level your giftee is at, why not treat them to a beautiful photo frame? They can use it to hold their graduation pic and reminisce on how all that hard work paid off! Of course, pairing it with a box of chocolates could be a good idea too…

Driving test congratulations gifts

Do you know someone who’s just passed their driving test? After this great achievement, a celebration is in order! But what gift to get them?

A thermos or travel mug

Now your loved one is ready for road trips and adventures, set them up with a handy thermos or travel mug. You could also help them stock up on some delectable hot chocolate or coffee to keep them energised on their drive.

A cute keyring

There’s nothing worse than losing your brand new car key. Make sure this doesn’t happen with a keyring. You could get something bespoke and personalised, go for a fun novelty design or keep it subtle and stylish.

A chocolate hamper

In our humble opinion, there’s no greater gift than a generous selection of chocolate goodies. No matter what kind of chocolate your recipient likes best, you’re sure to find a collection at Hotel Chocolat.

The Everything Chocolate Gift Hamper Collection is an ideal choice for drivers. There are plenty of delicious treats to enjoy, all without alcohol — perfect for snacking on behind the wheel. And if you’ve got a plant-based friend, the All Dark Vegan Hamper is packed with dairy-free delights.

Congratulations gift ideas from Hotel Chocolat

Say “congratulations” with luxury chocolate gifts from Hotel Chocolat. Whatever the achievement, chocolate is the perfect well done present. Browse our Exam gifts and Congratulations collection to find the ideal treat for your loved one.