Financial Literacy for Students
Tools for Students
As a college student, your next steps are pretty big. Take the guesswork out of preparing for the future with real-life insights, financial guidance, and tips to help you make the most of these years without breaking your budget.
Next Step Courses
Improve your financial IQ and learn how to make informed money management decisions through our short, engaging courses. And unlike your college classes, these take just 10 minutes to complete.
Podcasts for Students
Our Insights for Students podcast series can help prepare you for financial success before, during, and after college. Listen to learn about how to plan your goals, manage student loans, and transition from classroom to workplace.
Next Step Insights
You’ve got a goal, and we’ve got the tools to help you achieve it. Explore our wide library of articles designed to support you through each step of your journey.
Downloadable Worksheets
Calculators
Small changes can add up in a big way. Whether you’re saving for your first apartment or working to pay off student debt, our interactive calculators can help you achieve your next step.
Guest Advice for Students
Check out the posts below from featured guest bloggers for more financial tips for students and recent grads.
- How New Grads Can Approach the Job Market from Bobby Hoyt, Millennial Money Man
- 5 Ways to Have Fun on a College Budget! from Elle Hall-Coleman, Girlfriend’s Budget
Student Financial Aid & Scholarship Opportunities
Planning for all of your expenses before leaving for college can be stressful. Check out these resources to learn about the financial aid options available to you and how you can take advantage of them.
Finances During College
When it comes to paying for college, knowledge is power. Use these tips to navigate college life without compromising your long-term financial goals.
How to Budget for Daily College Life
College life can be expensive, but creating a budget doesn’t have to be hard. Keep your budget in check with a realistic plan that covers common college expenses — without forcing you to survive on ramen noodles.
5 Money Terms to Know Before College
You’ve bought your shower caddy, met your roommate, and registered for classes. The next step? Learning how to manage your finances. Start by familiarizing yourself with these money terms.
Preparing for Unexpected College Expenses
Incremental college expenses like parking and meal plans can sometimes derail even the most well-thought-out budget. Here’s what to include in your college savings plan, plus ways to lighten the financial load.
Podcast: Creating a Financial Plan for the First Year of College
Even with its hefty price tag, tuition doesn't capture all the costs, particularly for students in their first year of college. Learn how to create a realistic plan to help minimize unexpected expenses that may pop up throughout the year. (5:19)
Simplify Your Banking
Monitoring your finances on a regular basis can help you stay up to date on account balances and make progress toward your financial goals. Use these resources for tips on tracking your finances and making account management more seamless.
- Regions Bank Announces New Steps to Reduce Overdraft Charges, Eliminate Non-Sufficient Funds Fees
- Keeping Track of Your Money: 4 Steps to Take Charge of Your Accounts
- Understanding Overdraft Fees
- Checking Accounts: Five Mistakes to Avoid
- Three Reasons to Automate Bill Payments – and Four Precautions You Need to Take First
Guidance on Student Finances from Raya Reaves
Planning for your financial future is important, especially if you're a college student during COVID-19. Check out the posts below from Raya Reaves, Founder and Finance Coach at City Girl Savings, for her tips on identifying financial priorities and managing student loan disbursements so you can be better prepared financially when you graduate.
Managing Your Debt Like a Hero
Paying off your debt can seem like a daunting task. But with the right help and a bit of planning, you’ll be one step closer to achieving your financial goals.
What Costs Can Federal Student Loans Cover?
Federal student loans help pay for more than just college tuition. From housing to transportation, learn what other college costs they can potentially cover.
Four Tips to Pay off Your Student Loan Debt
The faster you pay down your student debt, the more money you may potentially save in the long run. These four strategies can help you pay off your student loans.
Preventing Fraud
Protecting Your Credit and Debit Card
Whether you’re using a credit or debit card, it’s important to know how to keep your cards and personal information safe. Check out these resources for tips about how to spot and avoid card fraud, as well as what to do if you become a victim.
Protect Your Bank Account From Scams
Do you know how to spot a scam? Fraudsters are using many ways to try and target your bank account. Here’s what you need to know to protect yourself and your money.
Tips for Social Media Safety and Online Shopping
When it comes to social media and online shopping, it’s important to be aware of the potential risks and take steps to protect yourself. Check out these best practices for keeping safe while hitting the like button and confirming your purchases.
Life After College
Your next steps are pretty major: graduation, your first “real” job — maybe even a place of your own. Take the guesswork out of transitioning from student to young professional with real-life insights, advice, and guidance for making the most of post-grad life.
"Adulting" 101: How to Prepare for Life After College
The thought of leaving college and entering the “real world” can be intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. These 12 tips can help you better prepare for post-grad life.
How to Budget After Landing Your First Job
From rent payments to student loans, there’s a lot competing for your hard-earned cash. Discover four strategies to help you develop smart financial habits and set you up for success.
Podcasts for Young Professionals
Ready to move beyond entry level? Explore our Young Professionals podcasts for strategies and tips to help you navigate the workplace and grow your career.
Podcast: How to Afford a New Degree
Thinking about going back to school is a big decision. Tune in to hear about what to consider when contemplating a new degree and tips for how to afford this next stage in your education. (4:27)
More Financial Resources from Regions Next Step
Looking for tips and tools for reaching your financial goals? Next Step’s online collection is full of articles, podcasts, worksheets, calculators and other useful resources to help you break your plans down into manageable and achievable steps.