Orientation is packed with campus tours, roommate introductions, and schedule planning. Somewhere between the welcome speeches and the dining hall tours, you should also take a few financial steps that will make the rest of your college experience smoother. Here are the money moves worth making during your first week on campus.
1. Set Up a Local Bank or Credit Union Account
If your current bank does not have a branch or widespread ATM network near campus, consider opening an account at a local credit union or bank. Look for:
- No monthly maintenance fees (many credit unions and student accounts offer this)
- Nearby ATMs or ATM fee reimbursement
- Mobile deposit and online banking features
- Overdraft protection options that do not carry high fees
Some campuses partner with specific financial institutions, so check what your school recommends. Having a local account makes it easier to deposit refund checks and manage day-to-day expenses.
If you choose not to open an account with a local financial institution, make sure you have a full suite of mobile services available with your current one (mobile deposit, peer-to-peer transfer, bill pay, etc.)
2. Understand Your Billing Cycle
Your school’s bursar office operates on specific billing deadlines that may not match what you expect. During orientation:
- Find out when tuition and fee bills are posted.
- Learn the payment deadline and any late fee policies.
- Ask about installment payment plan options if you need to spread costs over the semester.
- Confirm that your financial aid has been applied to your student account.
If you are still waiting on loan disbursement, ask the bursar’s office about their process for students whose funding is still in progress.
3. Get Strategic About Textbooks
Textbooks remain one of the most manageable college expenses if you plan ahead. Before buying anything at the campus bookstore:
- Check the library: Many campus libraries have course textbooks on reserve for short-term use.
- Rent instead of buy: Rental services (online and campus-based) can cut costs considerably.
- Buy used: Previous editions are often nearly identical and available at a fraction of the price.
- Wait for the first class: Some professors adjust reading lists after the semester starts. Waiting a few days can prevent buying books you do not need.
- Check open educational resources (OER): Some courses use free digital textbooks.
4. Review Your Meal Plan Options
Most schools offer multiple meal plan tiers. The largest plan is not always the most practical. Consider:
- How many meals per week you will realistically eat in the dining hall
- Whether flex dollars or dining dollars carry over between semesters
- If cooking in a dorm kitchen (if available) could save money compared to a larger plan
- Your school’s policy for changing meal plans after the semester starts
Some schools allow a meal plan adjustment during the first week or two of classes. If yours does, start with a moderate plan and adjust based on your actual habits.
5. Map Out Your Transportation Costs
Transportation costs can add up quietly. During orientation week:
- Learn about campus shuttle services (often free with your student ID)
- Research public transit discounts for students
- If you are bringing a car, factor in parking permits, gas, and insurance
- Look into bike-sharing programs or campus bike co-ops
6. Build a Simple Monthly Budget
You do not need a complex spreadsheet. A basic budget that covers four categories is a strong start:
- Fixed costs: Phone bill, subscriptions, insurance
- Variable needs: Groceries, toiletries, laundry
- Discretionary spending: Social activities, dining out, entertainment
- Savings buffer: Even $25 to $50 per month builds an emergency cushion over time
Track your spending for the first month to see where your money actually goes. Many free budgeting apps connect to your bank account and categorize expenses automatically.
7. Know Where to Find Financial Help on Campus
Most campuses offer financial resources that students underuse. During orientation, locate:
- The financial aid office: For questions about your aid package, loan disbursement, or emergency funding
- Financial literacy programs: Many schools offer free workshops on budgeting, credit, and loan management.
- Emergency aid funds: Some schools maintain emergency grant programs for students facing unexpected costs.
- Work-study coordination: If you have a Federal Work-Study award, connect with the office that manages campus employment.
8. Set Up Refund Direct Deposit
If your financial aid exceeds your direct school charges, you will receive a refund for the difference. Setting up direct deposit before the semester starts means you will receive those funds faster than waiting for a mailed check.
Check your student portal for the option to add your bank account information for refund disbursement.
Start Strong
The financial habits you build during your first week on campus set the tone for the rest of your college experience. Taking these steps during orientation does not take long, but it saves time and stress throughout the semester.
Still working on your college funding plan? Explore your options and find ways to reduce costs before classes begin.
