5 Financial Resources for Students

If you’re in college, you know how expensive it can be. However, the college years are a great time to grow or develop financial stewardship skills. Good money management now can help you live a more generous life later.

If you’re struggling with paying for school, here are some resources you can explore.

1. Your school offices. Your school’s financial aid office should be your first stop for information on grants or scholarships. And the career
   center usually has leads on jobs that are student-friendly, like part-time tutoring.
2. Private Scholarships and Loans. Private scholarships and loans can help you cover a financial aid gap. You can apply for scholarships in your field of study or those open to people living in your area. Some local organizations like banks or credit unions offer scholarships. Private scholarships can also be found on sites like Fastweb and Scholarship America.Private loans are also available. Be sure to shop around for good rates before making the decision to borrow.
3. Student-friendly checking accounts. Many checking accounts charge monthly fees and have high minimum balances. Managing that can be tough when you’re paying for school. Look around; some banks and credit unions offer free checking accounts without balance requirements.
4. Budget and credit counseling. Don’t know how to put together a budget? Easily available credit can make it easy to overspend. Nonprofit counseling services like Greenpath provide credit counseling and student loan counseling. These free or low-cost services can help you learn budgeting skills and get a head start on a brighter financial future.

These are just some of the resources that can help you manage your money and avoid excessive debt while you’re in school. Use this time of growth to practice being mindful with your finances and using your money in a God-honoring way. Your path to future financial freedom starts now!

This article should not be considered legal, tax, or financial advice. You may wish to consult a tax or financial advisor about your individual financial situation.