(BPT) - With the holidays right around the corner, gift giving offers a powerful way to show care and encouragement to college students working toward completing their degree. A gift that fuels their academic progress and personal growth is a simple gesture that can turn into a lasting investment in the learner's future.

Whether they are full-time or part-time learners, students are often managing multiple responsibilities on top of their studies, including work and family. Check out these thoughtful gift ideas that will help keep them on track and support their pursuit of higher education.

1. Purchase a school bookstore gift card

From textbooks and course supplies to campus merchandise and everyday essentials, the school bookstore - often available online - is a hub for student needs. A gift card provides the flexibility for learners to choose exactly what supports their academic journey, whether it's required reading, study tools or even a sweatshirt that shows school pride. This practical gift ensures your student has access to the resources they need while giving them the freedom to pick what matters most.

2. Give them a planner/journal

Staying organized is essential for college success, which is why a well-designed planner or journal can help students manage deadlines, set goals and reflect on their progress. Beyond keeping track of tasks, it can also serve as a creative outlet for jotting down ideas or practicing mindfulness. This thoughtful gift will empower your learner to stay focused, balanced and motivated throughout the semester.

3. Gift them a Sophia Learning subscription

Is your learner looking for a flexible, self-paced option to help them knock out some college-level courses that may transfer toward their degree? If so, giving them a Sophia Learning subscription may be the right gift this holiday season. Sophia offers more than 70 courses that learners can take on their own schedule, at their own pace. The courses are designed to transfer to 100+ partner colleges, and Sophia transcripts have been reviewed at nearly 3,000 other colleges and universities. Before trying out Sophia, learners should talk to the academic advising team at their school to determine if Sophia courses will transfer toward their program.

4. Pay for a meal delivery service

Finding time to cook or eat well can be a real challenge for college students juggling competing deadlines. As a solution, consider paying for a meal delivery service that provides convenient, nutritious options that save time and reduce stress. This option helps your learner stay fueled and focused, giving them one less thing to worry about on their busiest days.

5. Buy them an e-reader

Between heavy textbooks, assigned readings and the occasional leisure novel, college students power through countless pages. An e-reader offers a lightweight and portable way to access course materials, research papers and personal reading all in one device. With features like adjustable lighting, long battery life and built-in dictionaries, this gift makes studying more convenient and enjoyable without the distractions of social media and email apps.

6. Surprise them with a portable power bank/charger

A student's phone can be their lifeline for academic success as they juggle assignments and communication with professors and other students. To keep them powered through even the busiest days, consider gifting a portable power bank/charger. This tool ensures they can recharge on the go and stay connected, no matter how long their schedule runs.

The holiday season is a time for giving, and gifts that support higher education can play a key role in helping students to learn new skills. With the gift ideas shared above, you can support learners in advancing their studies and gaining momentum toward their career goals as they enter the new year.