Tips to Manage College Expenses
It’s September and for many parents, that means it’s time to send the kids off to college. And while getting a college education seems more important than ever, tuition and student loans can weigh heavily. Before the semester starts, avoid the stress that stems from these responsibilities and take the time to stop and review how you and your child will handle college expenses over the next four years.
Tips for Students & Parents to Manage College Expenses
- For students: College represents a formative experience in a young adult’s life. For many, it also marks the first time in which they are responsible for their own finances. Before your student heads off to school, arm them with the tools to succeed in handling their finances. Establishing sound financial practices now can lead to long-term stability in the future.
- For parents: Often parents are the party ultimately responsible for paying the tuition bill. Today, there are numerous online tools, calculators, and more that can aid you in paying and managing the costs of college. Just like any other bill, it’s important to stay organized and on top of tuition – make sure you’re taking advantage of the many online tools available to help you do so.
- For parents and students: Before the semester begins, take a moment to sit down together and make sure you’re on the same page. From confirming that your FAFSA is finalized and tying up loose ends with any scholarship opportunities, to factoring in additional living expenses to avoid any surprises, create a manageable budget and financial plan that you and your child can adhere to moving forward.
College is a wonderful time – don’t let finances distract you from the fun the next four years hold. When it comes to college expenses, planning ahead, staying on track, and simply having a conversation about money management can go a long way toward a financially stress-free college experience.
More like this
5 Financial Tips for College Students
If you are a college student, you are probably focusing on getting an education rather than saving for your financial future. However, it is important that you take control of your finances now to avoid problems later.
5 Financial Tips for Your Soon-To-Be College Student
If you have a student heading off to college, they’ve probably got visions of freedom and the good times to come, floating around in their head.
5 Questions to Ask Yourself About Student Loans
So, you’re a recent graduate? Congratulations! Now that the caps have been thrown and you’ve received that degree, you’re one step closer to real adulthood. Among the many new responsibilities you’ll have coming your way as an adult, is beginning to pay off your student loans.
5 Things You Need to Know About Student Loans Before Graduating
With the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) deadline fast approaching, student loans are on the minds of many parents and students preparing for their first year of college.
Federal Student Loan Repayment Plans Explained
So you've graduated college, landed a job, and all is well – until you get a notice that your first student loan payment is due. Take a deep breath! With so many repayment options, it can feel overwhelming and hard to know which one is best for you.
Federal Student Loan Repayment Plans Explained
So you've graduated college, landed a job, and all is well – until you get a notice that your first student loan payment is due. Take a deep breath! With so many repayment options, it can feel overwhelming and hard to know which one is best for you.
How to Save Money Before & During Your Spring Break Trip
Ah, Spring Break. The phrase brings to mind thoughts of the beach, late nights, friends, and way too much sun exposure! The winters are long and cold in Upstate NY.
Start Your Kids on a Positive Financial Path
Financial responsibility doesn't come naturally. It's something that has to be learned, or even better, taught from a young age. Luckily, there is a lot you can do to help set your children up for long-term financial success – and North Country Savings Bank is here to help!
Student Loans 101
College is over and your student loan repayments are finally becoming a reality. For many who are straight out of school and unemployed, this is an intimidating situation – but it doesn't have to be.
Top 5 Credit Card Tips for College Students
Many college students start receiving credit card applications as early as freshman year – and as time goes on and graduation approaches, you might even start to ask yourself, “Should I get one?”
Top 5 Tools for Managing Finances in College
If you’re the parent of a recent high school graduate and soon-to-be college student, you’re probably thinking of all of the ways you can prepare your child before they take flight from the nest.