Going to college is an expensive endeavor. Much of the difficulty is that it is virtually impossible to work a full time job while attending college full time. College students are constantly broke and it can be hard to meet all the financial demands of living on their own while paying for all their education needs. There is hope in a very old tool, the handy personal budget. Many people, young and old, cringe at the mere mention of budgeting. If you prefer, think of it as a spending plan. Regardless of what you call it, it is important especially if you are a hardworking college student. Begin by making a list of everything you absolutely need to be pay for. These things may include: rent/mortgage, phone, utilities, cable, loan payments, credit card payments, insurance, vehicle/gas costs/insurance, medical/dental coverage, and bus pass. Whether you use public transportation or you have your own car, make sure you include transportation costs (especially gas). As a college student you will have offers from many loan companies. Be an educated borrower and make sure you understand the interest rate, and the payment information on each loan. Do not take loans or grants that you do not need. Paying back students loans are extremely important to maintaining your credit rating and your ability to borrow money in the future. It is also a good idea to apply for small local scholarships to help with college fees. Scholarships, unlike loans, do not have to be paid back and they can be great source of funds to pay for books or lab fees. Budgeting can allow you make better use of your money. Make sure you consider all your expenses. Many students overlook seemingly little things like the cup of gourmet coffee you pick up everyday before class. Having a clear budget that includes everything you spend money is essential in handling your money in a healthy way. Once you establish a budget, review it at the end of each month to make adjustments. For a budget to work you have to stick to it. Living on a student budget is no easy task. Make sure you spend free money from student loans wisely. While you won't have to pay that money back until after you graduate, it should be used for college expenses first. Do not cut from your budget things that are good for your health. Eating well is extremely important, while ramen is a cheap dinner it certainly is not good for your health. Make sure you set aside money each month for a savings account. Even if it is only $10 a month, it is a good way to get in the habit of saving money. Even though you are still studying, it is important to thing about your specific financial goals for the future. Are you planning on moving after graduation, owning a house, renting an apartment, getting a car, or going on spring break. It is never to early to start saving for future investments. |
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