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Summer might feel like a break (and it should be!), but if you're heading to college soon—or already enrolled—it's also the perfect time to hit pause and get your financial game plan together.

Sure, sleeping in and soaking up the sun are well-earned perks, but between now and move-in day, there’s a golden opportunity to set yourself up for a less stressful, more financially secure school year.

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College comes with more hidden costs than most students expect. From textbooks and transportation to surprise fees and weekend expenses, your budget can unravel quickly if you're not prepared. That’s why summer is the ideal time to make sure your financial ducks are in a row. Whether you’re a first-year freshman or returning student, a few smart money moves now can lead to major savings—and peace of mind—later.

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💡 Pro tip: Think of this checklist as your “summer syllabus” for financial success. Let’s dive in.

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✅ 1. Finalize Your Financial Aid

Make sure all your financial aid is squared away. That means confirming that your FAFSA was processed, checking your school portal for any missing documents, and reviewing your official award letter. If anything looks off, contact your financial aid office ASAP—summer is a great time to clear up mistakes or submit extra paperwork without the semester rush.

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Not happy with your aid package? You may still be able to appeal for more aid. If your family’s financial situation has changed or you have additional expenses, some colleges will reconsider your award. It never hurts to ask.

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✅ 2. Make (and Practice) a Budget

Now’s the time to figure out how much money you’ll have to work with each month—then practice living on it. Start by estimating your income (savings, job income, aid refunds) and your expenses (books, food, subscriptions, entertainment, etc.).

Try setting a “mock budget” for July or August and track your spending to see where your money goes. Use apps like Mint or YNAB to help keep things realistic. Trust us—future you will thank you for figuring this out before classes begin.

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✅ 3. Open a Student-Friendly Bank Account

If you don’t already have a checking and savings account in your name, now is the time. Look for banks or credit unions that offer low or no fees, mobile banking, and perks for students—like free overdraft protection or ATM reimbursements.

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Bonus points if your account links easily to budgeting apps or allows easy transfers between checking and savings. Having a solid banking setup will make managing your money at school way easier.

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✅ 4. Apply for More Scholarships (Yes, Even Now!)

Scholarship season doesn’t end in the spring—there are tons of deadlines throughout the summer! The key is to stay consistent. Apply to 1–2 new scholarships each week to keep your momentum going.

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Not sure where to find them? Inside our Fund Your Future student portal, we upload new scholarships every single week. It’s like your personal scholarship tracker—with extra tips to help you apply faster and smarter.

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👉 Explore the portal here

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✅ 5. Plan for Textbooks & Course Materials

Textbooks can cost hundreds of dollars per semester—but with a little planning, you can save a lot. Once you register for classes, look up your book list and start comparison shopping. Consider renting, buying used, or checking for free versions online.

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Pro tip: Join your school’s student Facebook groups or Reddit threads—students often sell or trade books at steep discounts.

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✅ 6. Start an Emergency Fund (Even a Small One)

Even if it’s just $100, having a little cushion for unexpected expenses—like surprise fees, last-minute supplies, or a laptop repair—can be a lifesaver.

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Set a goal to save a set amount this summer, and tuck it away in a separate account so you’re not tempted to dip into it. It’s not about saving a ton—it’s about giving yourself peace of mind.

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✅ 7. Talk to Your Parents or Support System

Whether your parents are helping pay for school or not, it’s important to have an honest conversation about money. Who’s paying for what? What happens if you need extra funds mid-semester? Will you have to work during the school year?

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Getting on the same page now can prevent future arguments or misunderstandings. Here’s a tip: create a shared spreadsheet or use a note app to list out expected costs and responsibilities.

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✅ 8. Review Your Meal Plan and Campus Expenses

Meal plans can be confusing—and expensive. Check to see how many meals you’re paying for each week and whether it’s really worth it based on your eating habits. Some students save money by choosing a smaller plan and supplementing with groceries.

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Also review fees like student health, lab fees, gym access, and printing. Knowing what you’ll be charged (and what you can opt out of) can help you plan better.

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Bonus Tip: Sign Up for Tools That Make Life Easier

You don’t have to go it alone. Inside the Fund Your Future student portal, you’ll find:

• Weekly scholarship drops
• Application tips and guides
• Access to live chats with college funding pros
• Budgeting tools and downloadable checklists

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Whether you’re figuring out how to pay your bill or just want to stay on track, we’re here to help you stay ahead—without the overwhelm.

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👉 Join the Fund Your Future portal now

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Final Thoughts

Summer is the perfect time to slow down and prepare for a financially smart school year. Use this checklist to stay on track, save money, and reduce stress before college starts up again. A little work now can mean a whole lot of peace later.

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