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Financial Literacy Tips!

Student Money 101: Watch & Quick-Start Guide

Headed to university and wondering how to make your money stretch? I put together a short video with practical financial literacy tips for students—budgeting, saving, credit, and smarter spending.

Watch the Video

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Key Takeaways for Students

  • Start a simple budget: list monthly income (jobs, scholarships) and essentials (rent, food, transit, phone). Give yourself a small weekly spending limit and review it every Sunday.
  • Automate savings: even $10–$25/week helps. Set an automatic transfer the day you get paid.
  • Build credit safely: use one low-limit card for planned purchases and pay in full each month. Set up reminders for due dates.
  • Cut big costs first: textbooks (used/e-book/library reserves), transit passes, shared streaming, student discounts.
  • Know your fees: check tuition statements for optional charges you can opt out of, and avoid ATM or foreign transaction fees where possible.
  • Emergency buffer: aim for $300–$500 to cover surprise expenses (medical co-pays, travel, broken phone, etc.).
  • Scholarships & work: check your school’s awards page each term and look for on-campus/remote roles that fit your schedule.

Quick Checklists

Before the Term Starts

  • Open a no-fee student account and enable e-transfers + alerts.
  • Price textbooks three ways: used, e-book, and library/course reserves.
  • Apply for campus jobs and set your weekly study/work blocks.

Every Month

  • Review the budget in 10 minutes; adjust categories that go over.
  • Pay cards in full; if not possible, pay above the minimum and stop new non-essentials.
  • Move leftover cash to savings first—then decide on wants.

Helpful Resources

  • Your school’s financial aid office (scholarships, bursaries, emergency funds).
  • Library & writing centre: help with award applications and budgeting workshops.
  • Banking alerts: enable low-balance and transaction alerts to avoid fees.

Note: This post is for education only—not financial advice. Policies and products can change; always check details with your school and bank.

Questions or Topics You Want Next?

Drop a comment with your biggest money question and I’ll cover it in a follow-up post or video—scholarships, credit scores, side hustles, or rent budgeting.

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