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Home » Financial Literacy » Resources for Teachers » Free Financial Literacy Resources for College Students

College presents a unique time in a young person’s life where financial literacy education is particularly important. Our resources for college students cover a number of important topics faced by young people who may be living on their own for the first time. These personal finance resources also lay the groundwork for major decisions that happen shortly after college graduation – like buying a home, a car and managing credit and debt.

Practical Money Skill Curriculum

Below is a library of workbooks, teacher’s guides and presentation materials from the Practical Money Skills Library.

Lesson One: The Art of Budgeting

A personal budget is a financial plan that allocates future income toward expenses, savings, and debt repayment. “Where does the money go?” is a common dilemma faced by many individuals and households when it comes to budgeting and money management.  Effective money management starts with a goal and a step-by-step plan for saving and spending. Financial goals should be realistic, be specific, have a timeframe, and imply an action to be taken. This lesson will encourage students to take the time and effort to develop their own personal financial goals and budget.

• Teacher’s Guide – Lesson One: The Art Of Budgeting
• Student Guide – Lesson One: The Art Of Budgeting
• Teacher’s Slide Presentation Lesson One: The Art Of Budgeting
• Teachers Power Point Presentation Lesson One: The Art Of Budgeting

Lesson Two: Living on Your Own

As young people grow up, a common goal is to live on their own. However, the challenges of independent living are often quite different from their expectations. This lesson provides a reality check for students as they investigate the costs associated with moving, obtaining furniture and appliances, and renting an apartment.

• Teachers Guide – Lesson Two: Living On Your Own
• Student Guide – Lesson Two: Living On Your Own
• Teachers Slide Presentation – Lesson Two: Living On Your Own
• Teacher’s Power Point Presentation – Lesson Two: Living On Your Own

Lesson Three: Buying a Home

For many, buying a home is the single most important financial decision they will make in their lifetime.  However, the process of becoming a first-time homebuyer can be overwhelming, and requires a foundation for basic home-buying knowledge.  This lesson will provide students with information on buying a home and where and how to begin the process. After comparing the differences between renting and buying, students will be introduced to a five-step process for home buying. This framework provides an overview for the activities involved with selecting and purchasing a home.

• Teacher’s Guide – Lesson Three: Buying A Home
• Student Guide – Lesson Three: Buying A Home
• Teacher’s Slide Presentation – Lesson Three: Buying A Home
• Teacher’s Power Point Presentation – Lesson Three: Buying A Home

Lesson Four: Credit

In today’s world, credit is integrated into everyday life. From renting a car to reserving an airline ticket or hotel room, credit cards have become a necessary convenience. However, using credit wisely is critical to building a solid credit history and maintaining fiscal fitness. While most students have a general idea about the advantages and disadvantages of credit, this lesson provides an opportunity to discuss these issues in more detail.

• Teacher’s Guide – Lesson Four: Credit
• Student Guide – Lesson Four: Credit
• Teacher’s Slide Presentation – Lesson Four: Credit
• Teacher’s Power Point Presentation – Lesson Four: Credit

Lesson Five: Credit Cards

What is APR? What is a grace period? What are transaction fees?  These and other questions will be answered in this lesson as students learn about credit cards, and the different types of cards available and features of each, such as bank cards, store cards, and travel and entertainment cards.  As students start to shop for their first (or next) credit card, this lesson will make them aware of various costs and features. Included in this section is a discussion of the methods for calculating finance charges.

• Teacher’s Guide – Lesson Five: Credit Cards
• Student Guide – Lesson Five: Credit Cards
• Teacher’s Slide Presentation – Lesson Five: Credit Cards
• Teacher’s Power Point Presentation Lesson Five:  Credit Cards

Lesson Six: Cars and Loans

“Should I buy a new car or a used car?”  “Where is the best place to finance my automobile purchase?”  “Is it better to take the rebate or the low-rate financing plan?”  These are typical questions asked by people buying vehicles. In this lesson, students are asked to identify costs associated with owning and operating a motor vehicle. Since these costs are commonly underestimated, guidelines are provided on how much to spend when buying vehicles.

Teacher’s Guide – Lesson Six: Cars And Loans

Student Guide – Lesson Six: Cars And Loans

Teacher’s Slide Presentation – Lesson Six: Cars And Loans

Teacher’s Power Point Presentation – Lesson Six: Cars And Loans

Lesson Seven: Consumer Awareness

Decisions, decisions. With so many choices available to us, how can we be sure we’re making the right decision?  Wise consumer buying starts with a plan. Using a systematic purchasing strategy will provide students with an ability to make more effective purchases. Comparative shopping techniques will be discussed to encourage students to carefully consider price, product attributes, warranties, and store policies. Next, this lesson covers a variety of buying methods, such as buying clubs, shopping by phone, catalogs, online, and door-to-door selling.

• Teacher’s Guide – Lesson Seven: Consumer Awareness
• Student Guide – Lesson Seven: Consumer Awareness
• Teacher’s Slide Presentation – Lesson Seven: Consumer Awareness
• Teacher’s Power Point Presentation – Lesson Seven: Consumer Awareness

Lesson Eight: Saving and Investing

Saving just 35 cents a day will result in more than $125 in a year. Small amounts saved and invested can easily grow into larger sums. However, a person must start to save.  This lesson provides students with a basic knowledge of saving and investing. The process starts with setting financial goals. Next, a commitment to saving is discussed.

• Teacher’s Guide – Lesson Eight: Saving And Investing
• Student Guide – Lesson Eight: Saving And Investing
• Teacher’s Slide Presentation – Lesson Eight: Saving And Investing
• Teacher’s Power Point Presentation – Lesson Eight:  Saving And Investing

Lesson Nine: Trouble

The material in this lesson will help students become aware of the warning signs of financial difficulties.

• Teacher’s Guide – Lesson Nine: In Trouble
• Student Guide –  Lesson Nine: In Trouble
• Teacher’s Slide Presentation – Lesson Nine: In Trouble
• Teacher’s Power Point Presentation – Lesson Nine: In Trouble

Lesson Ten: Consumer Privacy

In today’s information age, keeping your personal financial information private can be challenging. What you put on an application for a loan, your payment history, where you make purchases, and your account balances are but a few of the financial records that can be sold to third parties and other organizations.  This lesson will discuss how public and private records are accessed and used by various organizations, as well as review privacy laws to protect your information.

• Teacher’s Guide – Lesson Ten: Consumer Privacy
• Student Guide – Lesson Ten: Consumer Privacy
• Teacher’s Slide Presentation – Lesson Ten: In Trouble
• Teacher’s Power Point Presentation – Lesson Ten: In Trouble

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If you are working with adults who are not in college, consider using our free financial literacy curriculum , developed for Habitat for Humanity’s home recipients. This curriculum provides similar information but is designed for a lower-literacy student.

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The most popular financial goal college students reported having for 2021 was to find different ways to generate additional income. Luckily, the opportunities for students to make some cash on the side are numerous. For example, they can hop on a bike and work for a food delivery company, tutor, babysit and/or pet sit, and do freelance work, among other things. 

Nearly two-thirds of students also wanted to crack down on impulse purchases. Meanwhile, millennials, who are likely in a different phase of their financial life, were more focused on investing and paying off their debts. Developing good habits in college can make the transition to managing other financial obligations, like the debt and investments millennials reported wanting to prioritize, easier. 

When comparing college men and women, men were much more interested in investing their money, whereas women were focused on avoiding impulse purchases and maintaining a strict budget. A recent survey of over 1,000 U.S. adults regarding investment strategies and tendencies revealed that nearly three-quarters of men invested in the stock market, compared to just over half of women. The majority of men also preferred to manage their own investments, whereas women were more likely to use a financial adviser. Findings like these highlight how gender-based psychological differences can affect investments.

• Not-So-Smart Decisions

While it’s important to build good habits early, there’s always the possibility for bumps in the road along the way. 

The budget categories that college students said they were most likely to overspend on were both food-related: dining out and grocery shopping. There are a few reasons why young people might go overboard with their food purchases. These include the pressure from social media to splurge on Instagram-worthy food, a lack of the time or know-how needed to cook for oneself, and the fact that dining out is a natural way to socialize and take a break from studying. This might, in part, explain why 51% of college students reported not saving any money month to month. Those who did make a point of putting money aside saved $142.30 monthly, on average. Additionally, over 83% of students reported getting financial help from their parents . 

Interestingly, 56% of students reported having at least one investment account. One trend to come out of the COVID-19 pandemic has been many young people getting their feet wet in the investment world . Fewer students (32.2%) said they’re currently saving for retirement, though. 

• Money-Saving Motivations

Regardless of where people are in their financial life, there’s a good chance they have at least one thing they are saving up for at any given time. We looked at what current college students and millennials were squirreling away cash for. 

College student or millennial, both groups reported that saving for an emergency fund was a priority for them. Emergency funds are critical because their primary goal is to cover unexpected financial blows, which we know can happen at any time. 

Seeing as most millennials have probably already completed their college degrees, they were more likely to be saving for a much-needed break from their job in the form of a vacation, as well as putting money aside for retirement. 

Within the past year, 50.6% of college students said they’d gone off track with their financial plans and goals, likely due, in part, to the same negative financial implications of the pandemic that Americans of all ages have faced. Millennials had more budgeting woes than college students, but both had high rates of getting back on track.

• A Very Large IOU

Student loans have likely been top of mind for current college students as COVID relief measures were instituted for borrowers and loan forgiveness made its way into mainstream news. We wanted to know how the past year has impacted current college students’ views on student debt.

Forty-two percent of the students we surveyed had student loans. Only 24.9% were actively paying them back, which might be expected as most don’t start repaying student loans until they have their degree in hand. However, experts recommend starting to pay them off as soon as possible , even before graduation. Seeing as over 45 million Americans have student debt , amounting to over $1.7 trillion dollars owed, it’s a burden that many are forced to deal with at some point.

Since the pandemic, there has been an uptick in the stress students are feeling about paying off their loans. The financial consequences of the pandemic have certainly not spared young people. Studies have shown that college students who graduate in the middle of a recession tend to deal with major income losses that can affect them in the long term. 

• Future Finances

Zooming out, we wanted to explore college students’ feelings on their current financial situation, as well as their optimism about their financial future.

Only 16.1% of college students said they feel very or extremely confident in their current financial situation, compared to 32.7% of millennials. As we’ve mentioned, this difference could come down to being at different points in their life. Millennials have likely been out of college for a few years, meaning they may have steadier income and more of a financial foundation than college students. But with that extra life experience apparently comes more stress: Millennials were more likely than college students to be very or extremely stressed about their current finances. 

Looking ahead, 29.8% of college students said they’re very or extremely optimistic about their financial future, compared to 43.1% of millennials. Given the uncertainty of the economy and the job market as the country comes out of the pandemic, it’s not surprising that college students are feeling less optimistic than millennials. However, male college students were over two times more likely than their female peers to say they’re extremely optimistic. This isn’t necessarily surprising given that factors like gender pay gap keep women from accruing the same amount of wealth as men over their careers. 

• Decisions, Decisions

It’s encouraging to see that many college students are motivated to create new revenue streams for themselves and limit their impulse purchasing. While both college students and millennials were interested in starting emergency funds, millennials had other pressing matters to finance for as well, like marriage and children.

Another thing we learned is that it’s hard to escape student debt, as many people need loans to finance their education. At CollegeFinance.com , we aim to help students navigate the sometimes overwhelming financing efforts that are needed to pursue a degree. Head to our website now to consult our many guides and tools for college students to help make the best decision when it comes to your educational experience.

• Methodology

We surveyed 765 current college students and 203 millennials about their financial habits and goals. College student respondents were 57.5% female, 39.1% male, and 3% nonbinary. One respondent was transgender, one respondent was genderfluid, and one respondent didn’t disclose their gender. Millennial respondents were 66.3% male, 33.2% female, and 0.5% nonbinary. 

Questions on respondents’ financial goals, budget categories they are most likely to overspend on, and things they’re currently saving for were asked as check-all-that-apply questions. Therefore, percentages won’t add to 100. 

• Limitations

The data we are presenting rely on self-report. There are many issues with self-reported data. These issues include, but are not limited to, the following: selective memory, telescoping, attribution, and exaggeration.

• Fair Use Statement

Money management is a crucial skill for young people to grasp. If you know someone who might enjoy reading about the various saving strategies discussed, as well as our other findings, feel free to share it with them. We just ask that you do so for noncommercial use only and to provide a link back to the original page so contributors can earn credit for their work.

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(Getty Images) |

Time-tested wisdom for the new college student.

There’s nothing like the feeling of independence of when you’re in college, but since it’s the first time away from home for many, budgeting and managing money might be tough to master. In fact, 64 percent of college students have run short on funds at some point before the end of their semesters, mainly due to unexpected expenses, according to a 2016 survey by Edvisors.com. With that in mind, here are 15 money management tips that could help equip college students with time-tested wisdom, as well as an arsenal of new apps and web services that should make saving and managing money easier to handle.

Be realistic with loans.

An accepted rule of thumb stipulates that a student should not borrow more money in student loans than what they can expect to earn their first year out of college, says Todd Christensen, director of Education & Bankruptcy Certificate Services, and author of “Everyday Money for Everyday People.” “I just spoke today with a fifth-year senior who already has $50,000 of student loan debt, and is planning to get a master’s degree to become a school counselor. By the time she graduates, she will likely have $80,000 or more of student loan debt and probably earn about half of that in her new career. That is a recipe for financial disaster.”

(iStockPhoto) |

Apply for scholarships.

There are billions of scholarship dollars going unused each year, Christensen says. “Research scholarships and be willing to write a couple dozen essays.”

Try to avoid buying new textbooks.

“Today’s budget-minded students have so many more options to save money on books . Electronic versions are often available, and textbooks can be rented online at sites like Chegg and Amazon,” says Shannon Vasconcelos, director of college finance for College Coach. Also try sites like campusbookrentals.com, bookrenter.com and Thriftbooks.com. Some universities even offer rentals in their bookstore. Also check if you can borrow them from a library.

Sleep late? Change your daily meal plan.

Students who sleep in on school days should not buy the three-meal plan from the school but the two-meal plan instead. “You’ll save a ton of money, some of which you can use to keep a stash of granola bars, apples, and string cheese in your room for breakfast on-the-run,” Vasconcelos says.

Resist the urge to keep up with the Joneses.

College is sometimes the first experience of different socio-economic groups, and friendships with students whose parents provide money on demand can make it difficult for budget-minded students to maintain their frugality , Vasconcelos says. “The occasional splurge is OK, but stay strong against pressure to go out for dinner and drinks every night, or to buy the latest gadgets and fashion,” she says. “Encourage your friends to take advantage of free entertainment on campus, and find a few similarly economical friends who can appreciate the fun of a movie and microwave popcorn in the dorm.”

(iStockphoto) |

Explore career aspirations through internships.

College provides a wonderful opportunity to test a new career and find an industry you love. Employers often look favorably upon this experience when you graduate. “If it opens the door to full-time employment in the future, working for no pay now may be worthwhile,” says Joseph Santos, director and regional sales manager at Merrill Edge. Also consider federal work-study programs, paid internships, on-campus positions and summer jobs to help save money along the way.

Refinance college debt.

Government loans are not always the best deal and a few bucks a month over the term of the loan adds up, says Rob Werner, president and CEO of Ardent Credit Union.

Don’t confuse budgeting with intractability.

Make a spending guide , or budget, to plan what money you have available for various categories, and you decide where to spend it each week. “If something goes up dramatically one month (your computer breaks down), your job is to decide what other area you can scrimp on in order to fill the unexpected need,” says John McFarland of the VCU School of Business.

Studies have shown that using cash instead of a debit or credit card results in a reduction of 30 percent of miscellaneous purchases, McFarland says. “Cash creates a sense of loss – cards create no such feeling," he says. And budget for long-term expenses that are months away so you’ll always have enough cash.

Get a student ID card.

This will give you access to the library, computer labs, testing center and shuttle services, as well as possible discounts to local restaurants, theaters, and attractions, says Kate Stephens, author of “College, Quicker: 24 Practical Ways to Save Money and Get Your Degree Faster.”

Test to earn credit.

You can potentially earn between three and 12 credits by simply showing up to a testing center and taking a test from the College-Level Examination Program (CLEP) on a wide variety of subjects, Stephens says. “And the best part? CLEP exams only cost $80 plus a small administration fee of around $20,” compared to college courses which can run several hundred dollars.

Don't buy brand new.

“Refurbished computers from Apple (ticker: AAPL ) are hundreds of dollars less and still come with the same guarantee as a brand-new model,” says consumer and money savings expert Andrea Woroch. “You can shop for second-hand clothing from sites like Tradesy.com or Thredup.com, and you can find used sporting equipment for your college sport or those weekend games with pals at SwapMeSports,” she says.

Carpool to cut gas costs.

Zimride.com and carpoolconnect.com help to connect passengers with drivers, Woroch says. “Since most first-year college students aren't allowed to have a car on campus, finding other students to carpool with can be a convenient and cheap way to get around town too,” she says.

Use discount gift cards.

“From dorm room supplies to clothing, restaurants and even gas, college students can reduce the amount of money spent on everyday essentials by 35 percent just by using discount gift cards from sites like GiftCardGranny.com,” Woroch says. “What's more, if you've got a stack of gift cards that you never plan to use, sell them at GiftCardGranny.com to get cash instead.”

(Hero Images | Getty Images)

Consider online classes to graduate on time.

An extra year costs $22,826 in tuition and fees, room and board, books and supplies, transportation and other expenses. In addition, students give up $45,327 in lost wages by graduating late, bringing the total cost to $68,153, according to a 2014 study by completecollege.org. “The extra years can make student loans balloon,” says Jennifer McHam of Study.com. “Online courses allow students more flexibility with scheduling and can help students catch up if they fall behind so that they can still graduate on time.”

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• Budgeting & Savings

Money Management for College Students

Entering college is an exciting and sometimes intimidating venture for many young adults—often it's the first time many leave the warmth and safety of their parents' home and have to live and manage on their own. One specific area that causes young adults difficulty is learning to budget . Here is a look at how college students can more effectively manage their money while furthering their education.

Key Takeaways

• College students need to set up a self-enforced budget.
• Utilizing meal plans and sharing expenses with roommates can help save money.
• Students should investigate economic ways to buy essential items and supplies.
• Learning to distinguish between essential and non-essential purchases is also a key money management tactic.

Enroll in a Meal Plan

A meal plan is a pre-paid program in which a set amount of money covers your meals on campus each semester. Assuming the educational institution offers the option (at some schools, it's either required or just rolled into an overall room and board cost), a meal plan can save a considerable amount, especially if it has a variety of tiers or arrangements—no sense in paying for three meals a day if you habitually skip breakfast).

Although one can debate whether meal plans work out to be cheaper than home-prepared food, it's likely more economical than eating in restaurants all the time—and they're certainly more convenient. You can pick up a lunch or a snack whenever you'd like and you do not have to take the time to grocery shop or cook yourself.

Share Expenses with a Roommate

When it comes to living in a dorm, you can expect to live in close quarters with another student. Another way that you can reduce your cost while living at college is to go in on things with your roommate—e.g. appliances or furniture. Or you could pool resources for the laundry or other services.

Save on Supplies

Saving money on many college supply items is easy, even if you are living on campus. Before going straight to the campus bookstore, ask around to see if there is a used bookstore nearby (chances are there is in a college town)—or go online to sites like Amazon or bookfinder.com ; you could save a considerable amount of money on your textbooks, even the new editions.

Notably, the site eCampus.com boasts that it can save college students up to 90% on new and used textbooks, and lets you rent as well as buy them. Additionally, you could save yourself even more money if you consider downloading your textbook to an e-reader or tablet device.

If you are looking to save on other supplies such as three-ring binders and loose-leaf paper, consider buying in bulk from an office supply store such as Staples (another item that you can split with your roommate or other students).

Determine What Is Essential and Non-Essential

Another point of difficulty for many college students is determining the difference between essential and non-essential items. Essential items are things that you need for everyday living and hygiene—food, clothing, toiletries—and, arguably, for your education (books, laptop, etc.).

Non-essential items are products that you don't need for everyday living, such as new sneakers or iPad. Non-essentials are things that are "nice-to-have" but not "must-own" items. Although it may be difficult at first, curb your spending to include only essential items until you are accustomed to living within your means.

Watch Out for Impulse Spending

It can be very tempting to spend your money on things you want but don't need—that fourth pair of sneakers—or on recreational activities. Peer pressure is all around you, and parents aren't around to say no.

Of course, that's not to say you can never splurge or indulge, or socialize because it'll cost money. But put yourself on an allowance—budget how much you'll spend on discretionary items or events each month.

The Bottom Line

Entering college is an exciting milestone, and if this is your first time away from home, it can also be nerve-wracking. Get started on the right foot financially by setting up a sturdy budget when you step foot onto the campus. Save money where you can, share expenses with a roommate or friend, and, most importantly, be mindful of your spending.

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Money Management Tips for College Students

Heading off to college is exciting, but it can also be expensive. And smart money management plays an important role in making your college experience fun, enjoyable, and comfortable — just like it should be.

A financial plan helps ensure your basic needs are met, so you can focus on your studies — and your social life — rather than stressing about your bills. Plus, the good financial habits you develop early can build on each other over time,  so you can live a comfortable life after graduation and feel in control of your finances.

Fortunately, money management as a student doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. Follow these 8 easy tips to build solid financial habits, manage your costs, and put yourself on track for long-term financial success.

1. Start with the right bank accounts

Having the right bank accounts makes it easier to reach your financial goals. And even if you’ve had a bank account for years, now’s a good time to re-evaluate your needs and make sure your account still works for you in college.

Going off to college can significantly change your financial needs, especially if you’re not living at home, so you’ll need accounts that support your everyday financial activity and help you prepare for the future.

For most college students, this generally means opening two types of accounts:

Checking accounts

Checking accounts are ideal for day-to-day financial management. You use a checking account to manage your everyday expenses, including paying rent and bills, withdrawing cash from ATMs, and making everyday purchases using your debit card. Some financial institutions may offer student checking accounts with low (or no) monthly fees.   

Savings accounts

Saving is important at any stage of life, and opening a savings account can put you on track to succeed. Savings accounts allow you to earn interest on the funds you deposit in the account, accelerating your savings over time.

Some financial institutions may also offer "hybrid" accounts that combine checking and savings, allowing you to manage all your money through one account. If you opt for this hybrid approach, you may or may not choose to open an additional checking or savings account.

As you consider different bank accounts, take note of how you’d prefer to manage your money and ensure the account you choose allows you to bank how you’d like. If you generally prefer to pay in cash, for example, you may want to select an account that will minimize your ATM fees. If you prefer to manage your money online, you may opt for an account that offers online and mobile banking.

2. Create — and stick to — a budget

Once you’ve opened the bank accounts you need, creating a budget should be next on your to-do list. Budgeting allows you to keep track of your income and expenses, giving each dollar a “job” to ensure you’re meeting your financial obligations and working toward your goals.

While budgeting is important for anyone, it can be especially helpful if you’re a student on a limited income. Your budget carves out space for all your basic living expenses, including your rent and utilities, which helps ensure you’ll have the money you need to cover these essentials. This means you’re more likely to be able to pay your bills on time and avoid taking on unwanted debt.

Ready to get started? Check out our student budgeting guide to learn how to create a budget that works for you. 

3. Manage your credit responsibly

Going off to college comes with plenty of exciting life changes, including the potential to build your own credit history by getting your first credit card. If you’re interested in a credit card, look for student credit cards: they are generally accessible to students with no credit history and may even allow you to earn rewards on your purchases.

If you decide to get a card, it’s essential to use it responsibly. When used properly, a credit card can help build your credit history and raise your credit score, which may make it easier to access other types of credit — like an auto loan — later on. On the other hand, poor credit habits can lower your score, and accidental overspending may result in carrying high-interest debts that can be difficult to pay off.

Follow these tips to get the most benefits from your card:

• Make at least the minimum payment on time, every time. Missing or late payments negatively impact your score, so use your budget to help you stay on top of your credit card payments.
• Be mindful of your spending. Don’t spend more than you can comfortably pay off at the end of the billing cycle to avoid going into unwanted debt.
• Maintain a low balance on the card . Use only a small portion of your available credit (ideally, 10% or less) to help improve your credit score.

4. Start saving for the future

Saving is an important part of building financial security over time. But if you don’t have a structured savings plan — or you're relying on money left over at the end of the month to put into savings — you may never build up your nest egg.

Savvy budgeters pay themselves first. That means treating savings as an essential expense and creating a plan to save money at regular intervals. You might opt to save a flat amount each week or each month, for example, or set aside a percentage of your income on payday.

Building up your savings can provide financial security if you have an emergency, helping you to cover a surprise bill without going into debt. It can also lay the foundation for achieving longer-term financial goals by helping you build wealth from a young age.

Most savings accounts offer compound interest , which means you’ll earn interest on the amount you deposit into your savings account, as well as on any interest you’d earned previously. The longer your money sits in a savings account, the more interest you’ll earn and the more you’ll accelerate your savings.

The results can be dramatic. Even a modest savings goal — like depositing $20 per month in an account with a 2.5% interest rate — will add up to more than $1,000 by the time you graduate from a 4-year program. And if you continued to save $20 a month in your working years, you’d accumulate nearly $24,000 after 50 years, including nearly $12,000 in interest.

In addition to your ongoing savings plan, have a strategy in place to save a portion of lump-sum payments you receive. Pledging to set aside 30% of your tax refund, for example, can accelerate your savings to help you reach your goals.

5. Avoid impulse spending

Going off to college can be a source of financial peer pressure. You’re likely to meet people from all walks of life, including people who may have more discretionary income than you, and it’s normal to feel a push to keep up.

However, it’s important to stick to your financial plan and avoid impulse spending. Accidental overspending may mean you won’t have enough money to cover your essentials or may lead to you getting into unwanted debt.

Keep your spending in check by shopping with a list, which will help you avoid impulse purchases that might be out of your budget. Suggest free or low-cost activities, like potluck dinner parties rather than expensive dinners out, to keep your social spending in check. And build some “fun money” into your budget, so you can splurge in moderation to avoid feeling deprived.

6. Take steps to lower your expenses

Of course, it’s easier to manage your money when you have more of it available to use. So look for opportunities to save money on your everyday expenses . And, as a student, you’ve got plenty of opportunities to cut costs.

Try these tips to help:

• Use on-campus services: Find out which services are included in your tuition and fees and make the most of the resources available to you. Use the campus fitness center in place of a private gym, and visit student health services to learn about the vision, dental, and mental health care available to you.
• Take advantage of student discounts: Several retailers, apps, software, and services offer discounted rates, and local businesses may have partnerships with your school to offer student discounts.
• Save money on groceries: Plan your meals in advance and choose recipes that use similar ingredients to minimize waste. Shop with a grocery list, and stock your pantry with lower-cost staples — including grains, beans, lentils, frozen veggies, and cheaper cuts of meat, like chicken thighs — to meal prep on a budget.
• Shop second-hand: Seeking out thrift clothing, gently used furniture, and second-hand textbooks can all help you save money. Check your local thrift shops, classified ads, and student listings to find essentials at a discount.

7. Use digital tools to manage your money

It’s never been easier to manage your money anytime, from anywhere. Use online banking to keep track of your account balance, so you always know how much money you have available. In addition, set up automatic savings to move money from your checking account into your savings account at regular intervals to make saving more convenient.

Consider seeking out a mobile banking app with built-in budgeting tools, too. Some financial institutions allow you to build your budget directly within the app, as well as set up alerts when you’re low on cash or approaching your spending limit.

8. Get outside support

Managing your money can feel intimidating, especially when you’re first starting out. But you don’t need to do it alone.

If your parents have strong money management skills, suggest a “money talk.” Work together to create a realistic budget, set up your savings plan, and decide if you will receive financial support from your family — and if so, how much — throughout the year.

Consider looking outside your family for support, too. Student financial services may provide access to an advisor that can answer your questions and help you make sense of your finances. And your bank can also be a valuable resource to learn more about managing your money and find financial tools to help.

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• Economic Well-Being of U.S. Households (SHED), Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, May 2022, https://www.federalreserve.gov/publications/2022-economic-well-being-of-us-households-in-2021-student-loans.htm
• The Cost of Going to College Has Risen at Nearly 5x the Rate of Inflation Over the Last 50 Years, My eLearning World, Nov. 2021, https://myelearningworld.com/cost-of-college-vs-inflation/
• Trends in College Pricing and Student Aid 2021, College Board, Oct. 2021, https://research.collegeboard.org/media/pdf/trends-college-pricing-student-aid-2021.pdf
• Federal student loans for college or career school are an investment in your future, Federal Student Aid,  https://studentaid.gov/understand-aid/types/loans
• How long does it take to pay off a student loan?, Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, Oct. 12, 2021, https://www.consumerfinance.gov/ask-cfpb/how-long-does-it-take-to-pay-off-a-student-loan-en-621
• Apply for a PLUS Loan for Parents and Graduate and Professional Students, Federal Student Aid, https://studentaid.gov/plus-app/

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Smart Financial Moves: Money Management Tips for College Students

As a college student, managing finances can be a daunting task, but it is a crucial life skill that will serve you well beyond graduation. Proper money management can prevent financial stress, improve your credit score, and help you achieve your financial goals. In this blog post, we will discuss money management tips for college students and highlight the importance of developing good financial habits during your college years.

Money Management Tips for College Students

As a student, you often struggle with managing your finances while juggling classes, exams, and extracurricular activities. To effectively control your expenses follow these money management tips. 

Create a Budget Plan

Creating a budget plan for you as a college student is essential because it will help you with managing your finances effectively, and track expenses to avoid overspending. It also promotes financial discipline, which will help you achieve your financial goals.   One of the most important aspects of money management for college students is creating a budget plan. A budget plan is a financial roadmap that helps you stay on top of your expenses and income. Here are some tips to help you create a budget plan :

• Determine your monthly income, including any financial aid, scholarships, or part-time job income.
• Make a list of all your expenses, including rent, food, transportation, and entertainment.
• Categorize your expenses into "essential" and "non-essential" categories.
• Set a monthly spending limit for each category based on your income and expenses.
• Track your expenses regularly to ensure that you are staying within your budget.

Setting a budget is the first step in managing your money effectively. It helps you understand where your money is going and allows you to plan for future expenses.

Track Your Spending

Budget tracking involves keeping track of your expenses to ensure that you are sticking to your budget. Tracking your spending is crucial for effective money management as a college student. It helps you identify areas where you can cut back on expenses and ensures that you are staying within your budget. Here are some tips to help you track your spending:

• Use a budgeting app or a spreadsheet to track your expenses.
• Save your receipts and record your spending daily.
• Review your spending regularly to identify areas where you can cut back.
• Make adjustments to your budget plan as needed.

Some drawbacks of not tracking expenses include overspending, running out of money before the end of the month, and accumulating debt. 

Identify Fixed and Variable Expenses

Tracking expenses can help in identifying fixed and variable costs by allowing you to categorize your spending habits. Fixed expenses, such as rent or car payments, remain constant from month to month, while variable expenses fluctuate, such as groceries or entertainment. Tracking your expenses lets you see where your money is going and adjust your budget accordingly.

• Understand which expenses are necessary and which are discretionary.
• Adjust your budget based on changes in your fixed expenses.
• Find ways to reduce your variable expenses.

Save Money Where Possible

As a college student, you can save money by looking for student discounts, using open-source or free software, buying used textbooks or renting them, cooking your meals instead of eating out, and sharing housing expenses with roommates. These small steps can add up and help you save a significant amount of money over time.

Saving money is essential for building a strong financial foundation. By saving money, you can avoid debt, prepare for emergencies, and achieve your long-term goals. Some ways to save money as a student include:

• Taking advantage of student discounts.
• Buying used textbooks or renting them.
• Save money on food : Consider cooking meals at home instead of eating out.
• Sharing expenses with roommates.
• Using public transportation instead of owning a car.

Build Credit Responsibly

Building credit responsibly as a college student is important because it establishes a credit history that can help with future financial endeavors, such as renting an apartment or buying a car. Additionally, a good credit score can lead to lower interest rates on loans and credit cards, saving the individual money in the long run. Building good credit is crucial for a future loan, credit card, or apartment approvals. To establish good credit, use credit responsibly and aim for a good credit score.

Ways to establish good credit include:

• Paying bills on time
• Using credit cards wisely
• Keeping credit utilization low
• Regularly checking your credit report
• Avoid applying for multiple credit cards at once.
• Keep credit card balances below 30% of the credit limit to maintain a good credit score.

College students should be cautious of credit card debt by using them only for essential expenses. Paying off balances in full each month can help avoid interest charges and negative credit impacts.

Consider a Part-Time Job

Considering a part-time job not only can it help you cover expenses and avoid excessive student loan debt, but it also provides a chance to gain valuable work experience and skills that can benefit your future career. However, it's important to balance work and school responsibilities to avoid burnout. Juggling school and work can help you improve your time-management skills and build discipline, setting you up for success in all areas of life. 

Some ways to find part-time job opportunities include:

• Checking with your school's career center.
• Looking for jobs on campus or nearby.
• Applying for internships or co-op programs.
• Freelancing or starting a side hustle.

Remember, it's never too early to start developing good money management habits, and the earlier you start, the more it will pay off in the long run. So take control of your finances today, and watch as your financial future begins to take shape. 

Managing money can be challenging, especially for college students who are often on a tight budget. To keep your finances in check, we've shared some top money management tips for college students. 

From creating a budget to finding ways to save, these simple strategies can help you stay on track and avoid debt. So, start building your financial foundation today and reap the benefits for years to come!  

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10 Money Management Tips for College Students

By Jordan Jantz on 08/01/2022

Unless you have recently won a massive lottery prize, managing your money is probably a priority for you. Money management can be a challenge even for the very well-off, and when you’re a student, balancing that bank account might seem doubly difficult.

Going back to school may have prompted you to drop your work hours in order to balance your new load of homework plus your other life responsibilities. Or it’s possible you’ve just never really had to pay much attention to how much you spent on groceries or where that monthly streaming service subscription left your checking account.

Whatever it is that’s sparking you to get a better handle on your budget, you know you need some help with managing money in college, and we’re here to help. We’ve gathered tips from both financial experts and college students like you. Take a look at these 10 quick tips for mastering money management.

10 Money management tips for college students

1. budget for everything.

The first step to getting your financial house in order is having a clear picture of where your money is being spent—and that’s where a budget comes in. It can be easy to assume recurring bills are the only thing you need to include in your monthly budget. Think again! Those coffee runs can add up fast.

“The biggest thing I’ve learned is to have a budget for practically everything,” says Yogin Patel, a sophomore at Arizona State University. “That means dedicate funds every month towards eating out, going to the movies, late-night snacks, books and supplies, socializing, etc. Keep in mind, these budgets should let you save a portion of money every month, which is key.”

So where do you even start with creating a budget? Check out these basic budgeting apps!

2. Don’t overlook student discounts

Being enrolled in college can sometimes lead to discounted prices or deals. Movie theaters, streaming services, insurance providers, major retailers and more are known to offer these benefits. It won’t hurt to look into your options, but you’ll still want to keep your guard up somewhat.

Remember, saving ten percent on something you didn’t really need is the same as spending 90 percent on something you didn’t really need—so mentally frame those purchases accordingly.

3. Automate your savings

It might feel fruitless to put away a bit of your paycheck into savings each month, but that kind of perseverance pays off in the long run. If you struggle to save a portion of your earnings on payday, make the decision once and for all and automate your savings. Most banks have a link on their website in order to help you set this up. If you run into questions, call your bank teller and inquire about your options.

4. Get creative & find fun for free

It’s tempting to go out to eat and plan social activities that revolve around spending money. After all, what else is there to do in life that doesn’t cost money? Well—a lot of things!

David Bakke, a finance expert at Money Crashers ®, suggests replacing a few nights of going out on the town with some at-home entertainment. Host a game night or rent a movie and enjoy a little entertainment for minimal expense. There’s a good chance you can find a few friends who are on board with saving some cash as well.

5. Get automated payments in check

This is different from automating your savings. We live in an age where “lazy” shopping is becoming the new norm for many. Automated payments for subscription services like Spotify® or Audible® can add up quickly. Beware of media, fashion and other shopping subscriptions that require a monthly fee. Instead, allocate that money toward some necessities—or just save it altogether!

While you might miss your regularly scheduled box of makeup samples or weekly meal plan kit during school, bypassing those fees will help you trim your overall expenses.

6. Cook at home

Cooking at home doesn’t mean you can never go out to eat—you don’t have to avoid all simple joys. But if grabbing a salad from the local deli or swinging by your favorite fast-food spot after dinner has become a habit, try and cut back a bit.

Cooking at home can be fun, inventive and even a great social activity. While it may require some planning ahead, a lot of money can be saved by purchasing ingredients from your local supermarket and making the most of leftovers. Look up some easy low-budget recipes and master them—remember, inexpensive doesn’t mean bland if you know what you’re doing.

7. Earn some extra cash

“Work as much as you can without hindering your studies,” says Chenell Tull from Hustle 2 Startup . “Even a part-time job is great to give you some spending money and help pay off student loan interest while you are in school.”

Depending on what you’re majoring in, freelance work may be a great option to make a little money on the side. If your degree doesn’t offer many opportunities for freelance work, consider other creative ways to make money. Start an Etsy ® shop, sell some clothes you’ve been meaning to get rid of or host a garage sale with your friends.

8. Try to stick to cash for your non-essential budget

Swiping your credit card at the register is simple—sometimes a little too simple! It’s easy to forget that equates to actual money. Once you get your paycheck and allocate what needs to go to tuition, bills and other monthly payments, use cash for other areas of your budget.

Handing a crisp $20 bill to the store clerk might feel different to you than paying with plastic, but it will help you avoid overspending. Seeing the cash physically leave your hand can have a subtle psychological effect that may make it easier to say no to an impulse purchase.

9. Use online coupons

Many businesses offer different deals online than they would if you were to purchase in store. There are also plenty of online applications that can help alert you to promotional codes a website may offer.

George Ruan helped create the browser extension Honey ® for just that purpose. “Using Honey can help college students save a lot of cash when they are shopping online and helps stretch a student budget,” Ruan says. “It works on everything from pizza to textbooks!”

10. Beware the “It’s only five bucks!” mentality

“You can 5-buck your way to poverty and debt more quickly than you think,” says Tana Gildea, author of The Graduate’s Guide to Money . She explains that while a dollar a day spent in the vending machine may seem harmless, it equates to $30 per month.

“Did you really want to allocate $30 to soda, candy and crackers?” she asks. “Probably not, but it sneaks up on you. Try to reverse that trend and save a buck a day.”

Consider your purchases carefully, and include those extra snacks and smartphone app purchases in your budget. That way, you’ll be sure to keep your finances in check.

There’s more where this came from

Incorporating these tips and tricks into your daily life is a great way to start managing money in college. These simple money management tips for college students can help you feel more confident in your financial standing while earning your degree.

Looking for more ways to save some money in school? Scholarships and grants can dramatically reduce your out-of-pocket expenses. Learn more about the best scholarships and grants with our article “ A Beginner’s Guide to Grants and Scholarships for Adult Students .”

Money Crashers is a registered trademark of Money Crashers, LLC. Spotify is a registered trademark of Spotify Technology Holding. Audible is a registered trademark of Audible, Inc. Etsy is a registered trademark of Etsy, Inc. Honey is a registered trademark of PayPal, Inc. EDITOR’S NOTE: This article was originally published in 2015. It has since been updated.

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40 Money Management Tips Every College Student Should Know

This booklet is aimed to help young people learn how to take control of their money.

This booklet is aimed to help young people learn how to take control of their money. The guide covers topics including checking accounts, financial aid, jobs, living in a dorm or apartment, cutting expenses, credit and debt, and saving and investing money.

40 Money Management Tips Every College Student Should Know provides a great framework for discussion and introduction to personal finance issues for the college student. The resource should not be considered as a comprehensive financial education curriculum, but rather as an introductory resource for further review. It can be used by college student support services as a seminar or simply distributed to entering college students as part of orientation materials. The National Emdowment for Financial Education (NEFE) produces quality financial education materials that are closely reviewed and kept current.

Adult education instructors may be particularly interested in using this resource with students who are interested in entering college and want to learn more about the financial aid process. There are also some tips, such as "Protect Your Personal Information" and "Don't Bounce Checks" that can be used withe ABE/GED or ESL students. 

Users of this resource may want to review the NEFE Financial Workshop Kits (College Series) available at http://www.financialworkshopkits.org/workshops/college-series.aspx . This six part series of workshops (with presenter powerpoints) provides a more robust curriculum for workshop presentations on Financial Literacy. An even more vibrant curriculum resource from NEFE is found in their CashCourse for College Students available at www.cashcourse.org/home . As with all NEFE materials, these resources are free for use in schools and educational settings.

In summary, 40 Money Management Tips Every College Student Should Know is a valuable resoure for the purpose that it is intended... an introductory piece on financial education for transitioning students. The pamphlet would be well-used as a hand-out and seminar topic in a a college orientation series across the nation.

"40 Money Management Tips Every College Student Should Know" offers insider information that most have had to learn the hard way -- from trial and error. Especially valuable for those who are first in their extended families to attend college, this booklet sheds light on the subtleties of the college experience and offers guidance on making wise financial choices that will save them money in both the short and long-term. For example, the tip entitled "Compare the Cost of an Apartment with the cost of a Dorm Room" helps weigh the pros and cons of living on or off campus. "Understand Your Student Loan Obligation" lists organizations that can provide loan payoff assistance based upon a chosen field of study. The booklet serves as a useful reminder that the small decisions made initially can have far-reaching implications.

While the tips format makes for a clean lay-out and easy reading, it is not ideal for some of the meatier financial matters. Lighter topics like "Choose the Meal Plan that Works for You" can be adequately covered, but others such as "Saving and Investing Money" merely provide definitions of various investment options (stocks, mutual funds) without advice on how to actually purchase those options. Not to say there isn't some detailed advice: the tip entitled, "Take Control of Your Credit Card" recommends that you "subtract your credit card purchases from your checking account so you'll have enough money to pay the bill in full each month," a simple behavioral change that can save considerable financial grief. Under the tip "Submit a New FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) Every Year", the advice is to apply even if you don't think you qualify: "Your eligibility may be impacted by the smallest change in your family's circumstances." In fact, this booklet tends to be most helpful when it focuses on college-specific financial advice like this.

As usual with NEFE publications, this one is strong on addressing illegal financial practices. Tips entitled "Watch out for Scholarship Scams," "Avoid Credit Card Pushers," and "Protect your Personal Information," helpfully raise awareness of scammers who would prey on students who are often new consumers.

There is some conflicting advice: one tip warns, "Use loans as a last resort," but then allows that taking out a low-interest loan is always better than using a credit card with a high interest rate for major college expenses. Another tip suggests talking to your roommate about "what your policy will be about lending money to each other," and then finishes with "it's probably better not to lend money to your roommate or anyone else." The discrepancies fairly reflect that all circumstances are different and financial decisions are typically not black and white.

Overall, this booklet will serve as an easy-to-digest primer to the financial world of college. Though the financial advice offered is more introductory than in-depth, its insights into college life will definitely help make the transition that much smoother and the outcomes that much more successful.

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Managing money and budgeting

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Managing money and budgeting: Lesson plan

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Being able to create a budget and save money can help young people feel more confident about finances and plan for the short and long term.

The activities on this page cover creating a budget, managing bills, as well as discussing the results of not managing money effectively.

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• Managing money and budgeting: Lesson plan and presentation slides –  full lesson plan for use with a group of students in the classroom

Lesson plan

(30 - 150 minutes)

This lesson is designed to help students understand how budgeting and saving regularly can help with effective money management. It also explores the importance of prioritising bills and understanding income and expenditure.

By the end of this lesson students will be able to:

• Practise how to effectively budget
• Identify bills they may need to pay and when to pay them
• Recognise the impact of poor money management

Further support for developing financial capability in your students

Follow this lesson with further money skills lessons for this age group, which cover  'Finances in the world of work' and  'Planning your finances for the future' . You’ll also find another interactive worksheet and an online lesson film alongside the 'Financial survival skills' lesson. Why not build financial capability as a focus in your students’ curriculum? Refer to our  Content guide  to find out how this LifeSkills resource can be used in lessons.

If you want to increase your own confidence to teach young people about money, Young Money provide free e-learning training to teachers across Primary and Secondary education.  In addition, National Numeracy has a free website which helps you practise and refresh your everyday maths skills.

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Exploring careers and workplace skills

Explore careers with primary aged children and teach them about workplace skills with this free lesson plan from Barclays LifeSkills.

Finances and the world of work

Develop money skills to prepare young people for the workplace, including payslips, budgeting and being self-employed.

Planning your finances for the future

This lesson explores long term financial planning and the costs of living independently, including mortgages, pensions, savings and borrowing.

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CashCourse is a free resource for UNL students to use. They offer worksheets on budgeting, informational videos, a financial calculator and a budgeting wizard to help.

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Learn more about CashCourse by scheduling an appointment with a Financial Well-Being Ambassador.

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• Learn how to navigate CashCourse.

As a piece of overall well-being, financial concerns can greatly impact other elements of well-being . Ambassadors will discuss finances, while also addressing wholistic well-being.

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Money Management Tips from College Students

Jul 19, 2014

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Money Management Tips from College Students. Tips about Budgeting. Set and stick to a budget Set a daily, weekly, or monthly limit for each type of expense Pay attention to your spending so you don’t exceed your limit. Tips about Cash. Only carry a small amount of cash

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Presentation Transcript

Tips about Budgeting • Set and stick to a budget • Set a daily, weekly, or monthly limit for each type of expense • Pay attention to your spending so you don’t exceed your limit

Tips about Cash • Only carry a small amount of cash • A little is better than none (just in case) • If you don’t have it, you can’t spend it • Use cash for non-essential purchases • May help curb your spending • It’s easier to tell when you’ve reached your spending limit – because your wallet is empty

Tips about Credit Cards • Consider whether you really need a credit card, and don’t get one if you don’t need it • Use your credit card cautiously • Only for emergencies • Only for pre-determined expenses • Leave it locked up at home during non-essential shopping trips

Tips about Working • Work during the summer and winter breaks to save money for the school year • Get a part-time job during the school year, especially an on-campus job

Tips about Saving Money • Take advantage of opportunities to save money • Find out if there’s a discount for college students and carry your college ID with you • Look for coupons, freebies, promotions, and other bargains online, in your college newspaper, etc. • Buy things when they’re on sale • Buy school supplies somewhere besides the campus bookstore • It’s easy to overspend on non-essentials at the bookstore • You don’t need all your supplies to have the university logo, and supplies without it may be less expensive

Tips about Saving Money • Save on transportation costs by using the campus transit system • Use your meal plan wisely • Save money on food by eating on campus using your meal plan • Only eat out (off campus) as an occasional treat • Buy snacks in larger quantities instead of one at a time on campus

Tips about Banking • Keep a reserve of savings that you don’t touch and add to it whenever possible • Check your bank balance regularly • Be cautious about “banking” amongst friends

Tips about Financial Aid • Apply for financial aid even if you’re not sure whether you will take it • Stay well-informed about your financial aid package. You should always know: • How much you’re receiving/borrowing • Where the money is coming from • The terms and conditions of the contract (e.g., minimum GPA, use of funds, interest rate, etc.)

Tips about Making Financial Choices • Practice delayed gratification • Avoid temptation • Discern between your “wants” and your “needs” and choose your expenditures wisely

Final Thoughts: Money Management Advice from College Students It’s very easy to waste money, and you’ll go through it faster than you expect.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 3.0 Unported License.

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Money Smart for Young People

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• An educator guide, student handouts, and powerpoint slides
• Multiple lessons that can be taught alone or in combination
• Standards alignment charts
• Ideas for grade-level modification
• Real-life exercises and examples
• Suggestions for optional books or online games/tools that can reinforce student understanding
• Ideas to integrate into existing academic subjects such as English, Mathematics, and Social Studies

FDIC Money Smart News for Kids was based on the Money Smart for Young People, grades 3-5 curriculum. It includes nine chapters, which introduce basic banking terms to young people, who are perhaps just beginning to learn about finances. Each issue builds upon the next and introduces two characters, Isabella and Noah, who try out different financial concepts along the way. Available at no-cost in English and Spanish language.

Other Youth Resources

Grades PreK-2 contains six lessons with hands-on, cross-curricular activities that engage preschool through second grade students. It explains financial concepts with age appropriate activities such as counting coins and defining needs and wants.

Full Grades PreK - 2 Curriculum

PreK - 2 Standard Alignment Chart

Due to the small screen size some information is no longer visible. Full information available when viewed on a larger screen.

Grades 3-5 contains eight lessons that expand on the lessons introduced in the PreK-2 curriculum. There are also newer topics such as how to create a budget and identifying ways to set goals for saving money.

Full Grades 3 - 5 Curriculum

Grades 3 - 5 Standard Alignment Chart

Grades 6-8 contains 12 lessons and is most appropriate for children ages 11 – 13. This curriculum contains important topics such as how to choose a successful career, and an introduction to understanding credit and debt.

Full Grades 6 - 8 Curriculum

Grades 6 - 8 Standard Alignment Chart

Grades 9-12 is our most expansive Money Smart for Young People curriculum. It contains 22 lessons that help prepare students for the real world by discussing topics such as car purchases, financing college and home ownership.

Grades 9 - 12 Standard Alignment Chart

Parent/ Caregiver Guides

The Money Smart Parent/ Caregiver Guides summarize key lesson concepts and exists as standalone resources. These guides also offer practical activities and conversation-starters on financial topics such as saving, setting financial goals, prioritizing spending decisions, and staying safe online.

  Grades PreK-2

  grade 6-8,   grades 3-5,   grades 9-12, digital toolkit.

The Digital toolkit consists of a few special activities from the MSYP Lesson plans that have been formatted for use on a computer or smart phone.

  Digital toolkit PDF Fillable Forms

The Digital toolkit is available for immediate download (catalog.fdic.gov).

Money Smart for Young People Digital Toolkit

Coloring/ Activity Book

Money Smart for Elementary School Students introduces key personal finance concepts to children ages 5-8. This resource features a coloring/activity book for the students accompanied by a companion manual for use by anyone leading a discussion with a group of youngsters.

The Student Activity Book and Instructor Guide are available for immediate  download (catalog.fdic.gov).

The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation is prohibited from endorsing any specific organizations. Money Smart users must ensure that their publicity, advertisements, and public statements do not use the FDIC name or logo to imply that FDIC endorses their organization or its products or services.

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