Is it poor etiquette to ask for specific gifts for a grad party?

[legendline]

I am graduating with two BA's in June. I leave the day of graduation for a month-long EMT course. I'd like to ask family members (who usually give money for b-days and Chirstmas) to give money toward paying for this course- however, the course has to be paid for over a month before graduation.

So when I send out invites to the grad party, do I explain about the course and ask people to send me money beforehand? Seems practical, but probably rude.

Do I say that I'd like money toward my EMT course, but not say when- I can just pay for the course on my CC and pay it back after the grad party?

Or do I say nothing about gifts/money, everyone gives me money anyway because it's what we do, and then use it to pay back my CC for the course?

[pdevans1963@rogers.com]

very rude i think. ask for money by all means but find a way to pay ahead of time and take what you get from well wishers. the course is your responsibility not theirs.

[Sunny-USA]

Don't ask for money. It's rude... and makes you appear greedy.

[angel]

...don't ask, it's not appropriate.

[Melissa]

I think if it's close family, there is nothing wrong with being honest about what you want, especially when it has to do with something like a course. Most family members will want to support you and offer something that you will use rather than something that sits and collects dust. What I do in such cases, and tell my mom about it. And she spreads the word without it sounding rude. For example, when my aunt calls she'll say, well i know Melissa really wants to take this EMT course and could use help paying for it. I wouldn't necessarily put it in the invitation but through word of mouth or if they ask I would mention it.

[EvilWoman0913]

It would be rude to ask for any type gift, but especially money. I would suggest that you tell your parents that money would be the best gift, if someone should happen to ask. Even if someone were to ask YOU what you need or want, it would be rude to reply with a specific item or money. Best to let your parents (or siblings) spread the word gently.

[Delfina D]

Very rude. Dont say anything about gifts you are expecting.

Gifts are something the giver choses to give. It's rude to expect them, let alone specifically ask for money in advance.