Give the gift of a homemade, healthy meal. College students do not always have the best diets between campus food and fast food, and some students might not have time to cook, some might live in a dorm that lacks a kitchen, and some might not have cooking skills. A free, homemade meal is always appreciated and enjoyed.
Online e-cards not only have free options available, but they are also good gift idea for anyone who has limited money available and wants to show they care. Send an e-card to the student's e-mail address that's appropriate for the occasion, such as a birthday card, and which will appeal to the student's tastes.
Fresh-baked, homemade cookies are a great snack item for busy students with long hours of study, and they also send a personal message. Parents, grandparents and other family members often make cookies with children, so sending homemade cookies to a college student during exam time can be a deliciously sweet reminder of home.
Any artist can give the gift of an art project like a drawing, painting or collage. This gift requires few supplies and can be an original decorating item for a college student. Try using pictures of home to create a one-of-a-kind collage --- it will be a reminder of friends, family and home while not requiring any artistic skill. You'll need only scissors, pictures, background paper and glue.