Money Management 101
Create a Budget
Make a plan for your income and expenses—and practice using your budget before you start college.
Stretch Your Meals
✔ Reserve eating out
for special occasions.
✔ Stretch meal plans
with to-go boxes.
✔ Make meals in your
dorm.
Look for
Fuel Points
Some grocery stores let you earn points that can be used for free gas.
Take Advantage of Thrift Stores
Buy and sell gently used clothes online at sites like thredUP and Poshmark. Check out local thrift stores too.
Look for Student Discounts
Use your student ID to get discounts at movies, restaurants, stores, museums, and more.
Buy Books Like a Pro
✔ Compare prices online.
✔ Shop early for better
deals.
✔ Look for used books
and older editions.
✔ Rent books or share them
with a classmate.
Make Money
on Old Books
Sell books as soon as the semester ends.
Be Smart About
Insurance
✔ Stay on your parents'
health and
car insurance.
✔ Look for student
insurance plans.
Save Money on Prescriptions
Check for discounts for filling prescriptions at a certain pharmacy or using mail order.
Use Online Budgeting Tools
They can make budgeting easier and prevent overspending.
Be Persistent
Stick with it even if you get off track.
College Planning Calendar
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Stay on track as you navigate each step of the college planning process.