Having a plan for how tuition bills, as well as to pay housing, utilities and other costs, can help to make college less stressful for students already worried about classes.
Knowing where your money is going and what expenses you have will help to make spending less of a worry.
Keep track of where you are with your spending.
Whether with an Excel spreadsheet or a budgeting app like the Mint Money Manager, having a tangible idea of where you are in your spending can help you know when to stop.
Apply for aid.
Make sure to look for scholarships through the University and department of your major and fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid on time.
Plan for unexpected expenses.
Make a plan to set aside extra money so that if your car breaks down or you have to go to the IU Health Center, you still have money to afford your other necessities.
Know the difference between needs and necessity.
Is it necessary to have a venti caramel macchiato from Starbucks every day? Have an idea of what is a necessity for you and cut out any unnecessary expenses.
But also splurge every once in a while.
Reward yourself when you stay on track by planning to have a little money to burn at the end of a good month on something you have been wanting.
