Close

Recent Posts

Archives

15 MONEY TIPS FOR COLLEGE STUDENTS by Johanna Hicks

15 MONEY TIPS FOR COLLEGE STUDENTS by Johanna Hicks
  • PublishedMay 26, 2017


[adning id=”33097″]

 

High school graduation has taken place, or will soon, for most high schools.  Many graduates will be embarking on a totally new adventure called college.  For many families, money is tight, and the cost of higher education can be frightening.  However, if we equip our youth with some money management tools, they will be able to handle most challenges.  Experts agree that careful planning and wise spending can stretch the bucks.

1)      Budget your money to last.  Know what you can spend and know when you’ve spent too much.  For some college students, budgeting is a first-ever experience.  It may sound difficult, but it is not impossible. Keep records of what you spend and compare your spending to what you planned to spend.  Keeping your checkbook balanced will keep you from going overboard.  I strongly suggest writing each debit purchase as well as checks written, in your check register even though your on-line account keeps that information.  Set a little money aside for emergencies.

2)      Be price sensitive.  Comparison shop to save money.  Know the community and what it has to offer.

3)      Use a debit card (check card) instead of a credit card to keep you from over-spending.   Again, don’t forget to write down what you spend in your check register or online system.

4)      If you have subscribed to a full or partial meal plan at school, use it.  Don’t leave money on the table by not using what you’ve paid for.  The average cost per meal on your meal plan is likely to be less than what you would spend “eating out”, but only if you use it.

5)      Be careful about how much money you spend eating out. Remember that beverages can really add to your cost – in fact, they may be the most expensive part of a fast-food meal.  Get into the habit of ordering regular tap water with ice and lemon/lime to accompany your meal and you will save a lot of money in the long-run.

6)      Staying connected. In college, computer “connectivity” is important.  If you are living in a dormitory, high-speed internet may be included in your total cost.  If you live off-campus, consider your options; some apartment complexes may offer wireless or high-speed connections.

7)      Buy used text books if they fit your textbook requirements.  Sell them at the end of the semester if you do not care to keep them for reference or to build a professional library.

8)      Get information from your financial aid office even if you do not have a student loan.  The offices usually stock information on budgeting, economizing, and managing credit.

9)      Pay your credit card in full every month.  Don’t charge everything.  Set rules for yourself.  People who use their credit card for “everything” tend to spend more money and often it is money that they do not have.

10)   Be wary of credit card solicitations (graduating seniors and college students will get a lot of these!)  You only need one credit card.  Some will give you gifts or other premiums.  Too much open credit damages your credit history.  Comparison shop for a credit card if you don’t presently have one.  They are not all the same. Look for a low APR, no annual fees and low/no extra fees and charges.  Pay special attention to how your interest rate will change if you are late in making a payment.  Pay credit card bills on time in order to avoid late fees – paying online may speed up payments.

11)   Avoid identity fraud by being careful with your personal financial records and numbers.  Avoid losing your personal belongings.  Keep vital information away from prying eyes.  Get a free copy of your credit report at the official website,www.annualcreditreport.com.  Beware of imposter websites when requesting a copy of your credit report.

12)   Avoid racking up extra costs needlessly. Library late fines cost money.  Traffic violations and parking tickets cost money, too, and damage your record.  Remember that hourly and daily fees to park in some convenient campus facilities cost much more than contract parking or other available student parking.  Plan for the extra time it may take to save on parking.  Or use bus service if it is available.

13)   Weigh the costs and benefits of employment while you are going to school.  Working more hours may provide more money but can increase the number of years (and the cost) of going to school.  On the other hand, working can provide you with valuable experience related to your interests, major or future profession.

14)   This tip has nothing to do with financial management, but is an important bit of advice.  Keep good company!  College students are faced with temptations, pressures, and far-reaching opinions.  Stay away from drugs and alcohol, and focus on the positive things.  Remember that bad company corrupts character, and good company strengthens character!


Closing Thought

“I know my older sister loves me because she gives me all her old clothes and has to go out and buy new ones” – Lauren, age 5

 

[adning id=”33207″]

 

[adning id=”33207″]

Written By