Going to College


 

Dealing with personal finances can be overwhelming for anyone, but especially for people just beginning to manage money on their own.  This publication helps young adults — including those just starting a career or a family and others still in school — take control of their finances.

Audience: 
Youth, Parents, Educators, Students

Agency: Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation


Go to College.gov to learn the basics – how to pay for college and ways to be money smart once you’re there.


Agency: Department of Education


The U.S. Department of Education provides more than $100 billion a year in grants, loans, and work-study assistance for college. This is your source for free, in-depth information on preparing for and funding education beyond high school.


Agency: Department of Education


The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA(SM)) is used by almost all colleges, universities, and career/trade schools to determine how much federal aid (grants, loans, work-study) you may receive. Apply online now!


Agency: Department of Education


Financial literacy (education on the management of personal finances) is an essential part of planning and paying for postsecondary education. Learn about your options and how to make sound financial decisions regarding the vast array of financial products, services, and providers.


Agency: Department of Education


Download free publications such as the College Preparation Checklist, Funding Education Beyond High School – The Guide to Federal Student Aid, and more.


Agency: Department of Education


Students.gov provides links to government grant programs in addition to private grants and scholarships.


Agency: Department of Education


Learn about and link to state-supported financial aid programs in your state.


Agency: Department of Education


Find information on veterans benefits, Americorps, and other sources of federal aid.


Agency: Department of Education


Learn why you should consider federal loans before private loans – federal student loans usually offer borrowers lower interest rates and have more flexible repayment options.


Agency: Department of Education


How to spot potentially deceptive claims or business practices some private companies may use to get your student loan business.


Agency: Federal Trade Commission


A comprehensive financial education curriculum to teach those ages 12-20 the basics of handling their money and finances, including how to create positive relationships with financial institutions.  Money Smart for Young Adults can help young people in their formative years start positive habits early such as saving money and budgeting, as well as avoid making "wrong" decisions that could result in years of financial pain.  The curriculum is available free of charge; orders can be placed online.   For additional information call toll-free 1-877-ASK-FDIC (1-877-275-3342); hearing impaired 1-800-4618.

Audience: 
Educators, Parents, Students, Youth

Agency: Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation


Tips and strategies for handling your finances at different stages of life.

Audience: 
Youth, Elderly/Seniors, Caretakers, Young Adults

Agency: Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation


Many families looking for a way to save for a child’s college education consider investing in a 529 plan, a tax-advantaged savings plan designed to encourage saving for future college costs. This online brochure explains the basics of 529 plans.  Topics covered include: prepaid tuition plans vs. college savings plans, federal and state tax benefits, fees and expenses (and how to avoid some of the extra fees), and impact on financial aid eligibility.  

Audience: 
Parents, Investors

Agency: Securities and Exchange Commission


Individual Development Accounts (IDAs) are matched savings accounts designed to help low-income and low-wealth persons accumulate a targeted amount of funds to use for a specified purpose, such as purchasing a home or furthering an education. In this edition of the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency’s Insights, IDAs are identified as a tool for banks and other financial institutions to encourage lower-income persons and families to save money and build assets to meet their financial goals.  The publication describes why this product is offered, how it is used, and challenges involved with IDA products.

Audience: 
General Audience

Agency: Office of the Comptroller of the Currency


The links below provide guidance and tips to help you with the challenges of budgeting money while completing your education.

Audience: 
College students seeking financial aid

Agency: Department of Education


51 Ways to Save Hundreds on Loans and Credit Cards


Agency: Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation


The savings bond education tax exclusion permits qualified taxpayers to exclude from their gross income all or part of the interest paid upon the redemption of eligible Series EE and I Bonds issued after 1989, when the bond owner pays qualified higher education expenses at an eligible institution.

Audience: 
Taxpayers paying for higher education

Agency: Department of the Treasury