Budgeting basics

While university charges are fixed, many other expenses are variable based on your situation. The basics of budgeting and credit awareness will better equip you to make sound decisions now and in the future.

4 Steps to Creating a College Budget

The basics of budgeting and credit awareness are the same for students as they are for anyone else.

Step 1: Talk it Out

Determine your needs vs. wants

Budget first for needs and then carefully consider your wants.

Decide in advance who pays for what

It’s important to determine which expenses you are responsible for covering — cell phone, personal items, entertainment, etc. — and include them in your budget. If your family or guardian will be assisting you with these costs, have a conversation to make sure that everyone understands the plan.

Discuss what happens in an emergency, or when an unforeseen expense occurs. A little planning will make unexpected events much easier to handle when they come your way.

Step 2: List Income & Expenses

Identify all monthly inflows of cash and their sources:
Refunds, employment, savings, borrowed funds, and money from family.

Identify all monthly outflows of cash and their sources:
Focus first on major expenses such as meals, books, etc.

Step 3: Build Your Budget

Use our Student Budget Worksheet to create your monthly budget.

Step 4: Track Your Spending

Whether you use paper and pen, a spreadsheet, or an app, it’s important to consistently track your spending to avoid risk of busting your budget.

Credit cards

As a college student, a credit card can be convenient, but be sure to use it wisely:

  • Carry only the minimum number of credit cards you actually need
  • Know where your cards are at all times
  • Be aware of your credit balance at all times
  • Have a plan to pay off your charges before making a purchase
  • Always make your monthly payments on time
  • To prevent being a victim of credit card fraud, you must do all you can to guard yourself and your funds. In the event that your credit card is lost or stolen, immediately notify the credit card company.