Financial Resources

Our financial resource page is continually updated with resources and materials for anyone who needs help or guidance regarding financial decisions for postsecondary education.

Internet Resources

College Affordability Guide: Utah

The College Affordability Guide has been creating post-secondary education resources since 2008. Their team analyzed government-collected data on the 5,000+ colleges and universities in the US to find the ones that are both financially accessible for low-income students and have a track record of positive student outcomes. Their methodology is based on the idea that paying income-appropriate tuition, completing one's studies, and being able to pay back one's loans are the key elements of a worthwhile college experience. The Utah page, which also covers loans and scholarships, and advice on how to save money while going to college in Utah, can be found at http://www.collegeaffordabilityguide.org/schools/utah. We also cover Utah colleges' online offerings at http://www.collegeaffordabilityguide.org/schools/utah/online-colleges-in-utah/.

StudentAid.gov

The official website for Federal Student Aid, www.StudentAid.ed.gov is a great resource for understanding federal financial aid. Visitors can explore the various types of federal funding available for education, and students can decide which types of funding best fit their needs. In addition to information about the various types of federal financial aid, this website also has guidance for preparing for college and managing existing financial aid.

StepUpUtah.com

Teens, parents, and educators in Utah can explore financial aid options at www.StepUpUtah.com. The Financial Aid page is a fantastic guide to options such as grants, work-study, and student loans. Here you will also find information on scholarships, both in general and for scholarship programs specific to Utah. In addition, visitors can learn how to complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and get tips on how to write an outstanding scholarship essay.

FrugalDad.com

Not just for dad, www.FrugalDad.com is full of practical information to help you create a financial plan for college. Resources include articles and information on financial aid policies and events, as well as a weekly blog for financial aid news. Current students can visit the Frugal Scholar section for valuable savings strategies, while parents can use the Financial Planning section to help teach their kids fiscal responsibility. FrugalDad also keeps an up-to-date database on affordable colleges in the U.S., which includes in- and out-of-state tuition costs. Subscribe to the FrugalDad RSS to receive daily tips and news.

BorrowWisely.com

If you’re currently enrolled in college, www.BorrowWisely.org is a fantastic resource. Borrow Wisely boasts an array of tips and advice for making wise financial choices for college. Visitors can explore resources from paying for college to creating a budget and managing credit. You will also find helpful information regarding the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), scholarships, grants, and work-study programs. Check out the Borrow Wisely Tutorial Videos for practical guides as well as answers to frequently asked questions. The resource page includes a variety of calculators and quizzes as well as a glossary of terms. One unique feature of Borrow Wisely is that it can tailor information for you, based on your progress in school and other factors.

UtahSaves.org

The Utah Saves campaign works to increase financial literacy in Utah and can be a great tool for you to realize your financial goals. Their website, www.UtahSaves.org, has information on how to save money, reduce debt, and build wealth. Enroll to be a Utah Saver. The program is free and member benefits include free financial coaching and webinars, free tax services, information for upcoming events, and discounts on products and services.

UtahFutures.org

For researching careers in Utah, www.UtahFutures.org should be at the top of your list. In addition to information such as occupational outlook and earnings, Utah Futures gives you the tools to find the right career path for you. Visit their Career Assessments page to explore your interests and aptitudes, and then sort hundreds of occupations according to factors that you find important. Check out the Education and Training page for opportunities as well as information for scholarships and financial aid. Create a free portfolio to save your information for later use.

Debt.org

Student loans are a common way to fund education, and they provide educational opportunities that you otherwise may not be able to afford. But in many cases, graduates are left with a diploma and an enormous financial burden of student loans and credit card debt – and maybe no job in sight. With Americans owing an estimated $1 trillion in student loans, it’s important that you take control of your student loans today. You can visit their student section at http://www.debt.org/students/.

Video Resources

Below is a YouTube video from the Department of Education. It is a great “how to” guide for filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. (FASFA) You can visit the website at www.fafsa.ed.gov

If you’re not ready to apply for federal student aid, but you’d like to estimate your aid, try FAFSA4caster. FAFSA4caster is a free financial aid calculator that gives you an early estimate of your eligibility for federal student aid. This information helps families plan ahead for college. Click here to try it out!