Setting Up for Success: College Financial Planning Tips for Parents

Sending your child off to college is an exciting milestone, but there are several stressors that come along with the anticipation. Between the financial challenges, separation anxiety, and just general uncertainty, preparing to send your teenager off to college can be overwhelming.

Amid high-school graduation festivities and dorm room shopping, it’s easy to forget about financial preparation. However, proactive planning is the key to a successful college experience for your child. In this article, we'll explore effective strategies to help you get ready for this significant life transition.

Research Financial Aid Opportunities

Financial aid can significantly alleviate the financial burden of higher education and can be awarded through scholarships, grants, and student loans. These sources of funding ensure your child’s college education is determined by their academic potential and aspirations, rather than being constrained by their financial limitations.

There are a lot of resources available. Depending on the source, the requirements may vary. Proactive research can help you maximize the funding available to you, tailor your financial strategy to your family’s needs, and provide your freshman with a solid foundation for a fulfilling college experience.

Encourage Smart Financial Habits

Encouraging your child to implement smart financial habits during college can set them up for long-term financial well-being. As they step into newfound independence, it’s important they learn responsible money management through budgeting, tracking expenses, and making smart spending choices. Learning these invaluable habits in young adulthood can empower them to avoid debt traps and financial stress later.

Develop a Realistic College Budget

Work together with your child to create a comprehensive college budget; this can help your student grasp the true cost of college, from tuition and textbooks to personal expenses. If your child is working to contribute to part, or all, of their college experience, this will give them a deeper understanding of the value of money.

Create a budget and be transparent about which expenses you will and will not cover – this can help your student determine if they should get a job or not, and how often they will need to work. Be sure to list due dates for any bills and continue to have open, honest conversations about money to make sure your child is staying on track. If your student plans to save money while they are in college, the Pay Yourself First strategy is a great place to start.

Explore Student Banking Services

SouthState offers student banking services designed to cater to college students' unique needs. By opening a student checking account, your freshman can learn essential money management skills and complete transactions with ease. Our digital services like mobile banking and financial tools allow your college student to confidently manage their finances while focusing on their studies. With no monthly maintenance fees and benefits tailored to students, your freshman can navigate their personal finances with confidence.

In addition to a checking and savings account, a student credit card may be worth considering for your college student. These cards are designed with student needs in mind, allowing your child to build credit and receive practical benefits like cash back, travel rewards, and other perks tailored to the student lifestyle.

Shop Sales for Large Tech Purchases

Shopping sales and discounts for larger tech purchases is a savvy move that offers both immediate and long-term benefits. College expenses can add up quickly. By taking advantage of sales, you can stretch your budget, equip your student for academic success, and free up resources for other education expenses.

Purchase Textbooks from Outside Sources

Consider purchasing textbooks from sources other than the campus bookstore. Campus bookstores are typically more expensive than online retailers, rental services, or even buying used textbooks. Beyond campus bookstores, online retailers can provide digital or international editions.

How much money does a college kid need per month?

The amount of money a college student needs per month can vary widely based on factors like location, lifestyle, individual spending habits, and more. It’s important for students to create a detailed budget that reflects their unique circumstances. If your student will be working while in school, they will rely less on you to provide financially – and visa versa. Expenses to keep in mind when determining a budget for your college student include housing, groceries, transportation, and personal expenses.

When should I start saving for my child's college?

The ideal time to start saving for your child’s college education is as early as possible. An effective way to start saving is through a 529 college savings plan, which offers tax advantages and flexible investment options. The sooner you begin, the more compound interest will work to your advantage. Read more about how 529 plans can jump-start your college fund here.

At SouthState, we're committed to helping parents like you navigate the college financial landscape with confidence. By assessing college costs, utilizing student-focused banking services, researching financial aid, and instilling smart financial habits, you can pave the way for your child's successful and financially secure college experience.