Graduation represents a significant milestone for high school seniors, and numerous brands and organizations have developed promotional programs to celebrate this achievement. These initiatives range from complimentary food items and gift cards to exclusive merchandise and digital rewards. The availability of such offers typically coincides with the graduation season, often spanning from late spring through early summer. Eligibility requirements vary by program, with some requiring proof of graduation status, such as wearing academic regalia or presenting a student ID, while others accept graduation announcements or digital verification through apps. Understanding the specific terms, participating locations, and redemption windows is essential for students and parents seeking to access these benefits.
Food and Beverage Rewards
Several restaurant chains offer complimentary meals, snacks, or bonus cards to graduating students. These promotions are often tied to specific dates and require customers to demonstrate their status as members of the graduating class.
Krispy Kreme
For the Class of 2022, Krispy Kreme offered a "Senior Day Dozen" on May 25, 2022, at participating locations. To receive this freebie, seniors were required to wear Class of 2022 swag, which included items such as a cap and gown, Class of 2022 shirt or jacket, or other approved merchandise. The complimentary dozen consisted of eight Original Glazed doughnuts and four custom 2022 doughnuts. Details regarding allowed swag were available on the Krispy Kreme website.
Insomnia Cookies
Insomnia Cookies provided a free 6-pack of Classic cookies with a $5 in-store purchase to 2022 graduates (high school, college, and graduate school) who wore their cap and gown and mentioned the offer in-store. This promotion was valid from April 28 to June 29, 2022. Customers without a cap and gown could show any proof of graduation to qualify. There was a limit of one offer per customer at participating locations. Additionally, Insomnia Cookies offered 22% off Cookie Cakes for local pickup, delivery, and nationwide shipping through May 23, 2022, at 3:00 a.m. using the promo code GRAD22. This discount could not be combined with other offers.
Magnolia Bakery
Magnolia Bakery offered a free cupcake to recent graduates of any age who presented their diploma or graduation gear. This offer was valid through June 30.
Potbelly
Potbelly provided free delivery on catering orders of $150 or more for graduates using the promo code FREEDELIVERY at checkout on Potbelly.com.
TGI Fridays
Graduates could receive a free appetizer or dessert when ordering an entree at TGI Fridays. This required showing a student ID and was valid through June 30, 2025.
Applebee’s Gift Card Promotion
Through June 29, 2025, Applebee’s offered a $10 bonus card with the online or in-store purchase of $50 in Applebee’s gift cards. The bonus cards were valid from the day after purchase through August 3, 2025.
Auntie Anne’s Gift Card Promotion
Through June 15, 2025, Auntie Anne’s offered a $5 bonus reward for every $25 spent on Auntie Anne’s gift cards. Bonus cards were valid through July 15, 2025, with a limit of one per customer per transaction. A free rewards account was required for bonus card redemption.
Benihana Gift Card Promotion
Benihana ran two gift card promotions through June 15, 2025, offering up to $60 in bonuses.
Academic Achievement Incentives
Several companies reward students for good grades on their report cards. These programs typically require students to present a physical copy of their report card to verify eligibility. Participation may vary by location, and it is recommended to contact the specific store beforehand.
Applebee’s
The Applebee’s franchise, owned by RMH Franchise, offers a program called "A is for Applebee’s." Students aged 12 and under who receive an A on their report card are eligible for a free meal from the kid’s menu at participating locations.
Baskin-Robbins
Participating Baskin-Robbins locations offer a free scoop of ice cream to students who bring in their report card. Customers are advised to check the Baskin-Robbins website to find a local participating store.
Kudzoo App
The Kudzoo app, available on iOS and Google Play, allows students in middle and high school (ages 13 and older) to submit up to five report cards per year to earn Kudzoo Cash. This cash can be redeemed at local stores and restaurants. The app also features a Super Student Award and a Graduation Certificate, which can be redeemed for 10 free points.
Bank Rewards
Some banks, including Zions Bank and Alpine Bank, reward students with good grades by adding a small monetary amount to their bank accounts. Students with existing bank accounts should contact their bank to inquire about available rewards programs.
Brand Merchandise and Swag
Graduating students can potentially receive free merchandise and swag from brands by sending graduation announcements. This approach has been reported by students who received items from companies such as Chick-fil-A, Raising Cane’s, Tiffany & Co., Portillo’s, and Not Your Mother’s hair products. The process involves mailing graduation announcements to favorite businesses with the expectation of receiving a response. Success is not guaranteed, and the practice relies on the brand's discretion.
Professional Memberships
Graduating students and current students can access free professional memberships to aid in networking and career development. These memberships often provide access to mentors, educational resources, and industry connections.
National Society of Professional Engineers
Full-time students are eligible for a free student membership with the National Society of Professional Engineers.
Digital Software and Tools
Students can access essential software for free to support their educational and professional endeavors.
Microsoft Office 365
Students can use Office 365 for free, which includes Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and OneDrive.
General Advice for Accessing Offers
When seeking freebies and rewards, it is crucial to verify participation with the specific company or store location before making a special trip. Promotions can end suddenly, and not all locations may participate in national programs. For student grade rewards, always bring a copy of the report card. For graduation-specific offers, having a cap and gown, diploma, or student ID ready is typically required. For digital rewards like the Kudzoo app, ensure the app is downloaded and report cards are submitted within the allowed limits.
Conclusion
The landscape of freebies for high school seniors encompasses a variety of categories, including food rewards, academic incentives, brand merchandise, and professional development resources. The availability of these offers is often seasonal and tied to specific verification methods, such as wearing graduation regalia, presenting a student ID, or submitting report cards. While many promotions are confirmed for specific years, such as 2022 and 2025, consumers should always verify current terms and participating locations directly with the brands, as offers can change or expire. Utilizing digital platforms like the Kudzoo app and the strategy of sending graduation announcements to brands can further expand opportunities for receiving free items.