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08.16.11 | How to Budget for College

Posted in College Life, Paying for College by The Admissions Guru

Save Vs Spend Two Way Street SignsOne of the most striking aspects of college for incoming freshman is the new financial responsibility. Spending while under the watch of mom and dad is one thing, but for many students college comes with a lot of firsts: first credit card, first bills, and first place to really be financially independent. While there’s something to be said for learning by doing, handling finances should be done with more care. This is why it’s important to create your college budget.

Step One: Calculating Income

Before you know how much you can spend, you have to know how much you make. In college, many students find themselves living on the minimum, and this can become problematic. For example, make sure you know exactly how much money is in your account, because should you have a remaining $20, and buy a $25 item with your debit card, that extra $5 now costs you a whopping $40 in overdraft fees. Minor differences can have major consequences.
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08.02.11 | Work Study: The Basics

Posted in College Life, Paying for College by The Admissions Guru

A student at workWork study jobs may be awarded to students as a part of their overall financial aid package, or students apply to help cover expenses. They can consist of campus jobs such as library assistants, bookstore associates, or research assistants, and can range from simply administrative to research-oriented. Many campus jobs are filled by students in the work study programs. Additionally, some jobs are located in the surrounding community and are usually for local non-profits. All work study positions require that students be paid at least the federal minimum wage, though many do pay more. Additionally, only students who attend school at least half-time are eligible for work-study jobs.

Types of Work Study

There are two types of work study, federal and school-based. (more…)