FAQ | Student Money Management Center (2024)

The Student Money Management Center is a valuable resource available to students at Mississippi State University. We are a dedicated center that provides financial education, guidance, and resources to help students like you make informed financial decisions and enhance your financial well-being.

Learn More About the SMMC

Accessing the resources offered by the Student Money Management Center is easy! On our website, you can explore a variety of tools, guides, and articles on topics such as budgeting, saving, credit, and more. You may also see us out and about at various events (come by to say hi!).

Additionally, you can schedule an appointment to meet with a Money Mentor who can provide personalized guidance and support. Money Mentor meetings can be held in-person or virtually, and you can schedule a session for a time that works best for your schedule.

The Student Money Management Center is conveniently located on the Mississippi State University campus. You can find us at Garner Hall, Office 209. Once you’re at Garner Hall, go in the entrance with the big “Financial Aid” over the door and follow the signs to the Student Money Management Center. We also offer virtual appointments and online resources for added accessibility.

We recommend scheduling a time to come in so we can make sure someone is here when you come by.

A Money Mentoring session is a one-on-one meeting with a trained peer financial coach, called a Money Mentor, who will provide personalized financial guidance. During the session, you can discuss your financial goals, address specific concerns or questions, and receive practical advice tailored to your individual circ*mstances.

Your Mentor will offer support and resources to help you improve your financial well-being. It's important to note that Money Mentors provide a judgment-free and confidential environment, ensuring that you can openly discuss your financial situation without any fear of judgment or criticism. You’ll leave the session with a printed Plan of Action. You can also expect to hear from your Money Mentor after the session for additional support.

The FAFSA, MS State Aid Application (if in-state), and MSU General Scholarship Application are accessed online. You can also search for external scholarships offered through organizations like your major department and clubs you may be a part of.

Learn More about paying for school

You have lots of options! Applying for the FAFSA, MS State Aid Application (if in-state), and MSU General Scholarship Application are the best place to start. You could also check your eligibility for work-study jobs or get a part-time job on campus or in the community. Federal student loans and private loans can also be considered. If paying all at once is not possible, consider applying for a payment plan to spread out the payments.

Learn More about paying for school

To apply for student loans, start by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) online. This form will determine your eligibility for federal student loans. Additionally, you may need to explore private loan options from banks or credit unions. Check with the financial aid office for more information on the application process and available loan programs.

Learn More about student loans

To effectively manage student loans and minimize debt, it’s important to be aware of the total amount of loans you have (or will) borrow and how they will affect your expected career income. Be sure that the amount you’re borrowing makes sense for the income you expect to have.

When you’re preparing for repayment, create a budget to track your expenses and ensure you're making regular loan payments. Consider making extra payments when possible to reduce the overall interest accrued. Explore loan forgiveness programs, income-driven repayment plans, and other options that align with your financial goals.

Learn More about student loans

• Do a cost comparison on your textbook costs to determine if it might be cheaper to obtain textbooks through Bulldog Bundle.
• Consider purchasing used textbooks or renting them instead of buying new ones.
• Explore online platforms and websites that offer free or discounted digital textbooks.
• Look for textbook sharing or swapping options with fellow students.
• Utilize the library or borrow textbooks from classmates whenever possible.
• Consider purchasing older editions of textbooks if they align closely with the required content.

Bulldog Bundle

The cost of attending MSU can vary depending on factors such as your residency status, program of study, and lifestyle choices. To get a general idea, visit the Cost of Attendance summary here. It provides information on tuition, fees, housing, meals, and other potential costs. Keep in mind that these figures are subject to change, so it's important to stay updated with the latest information.

Cost of Attendance Learn More about Paying For School

Start by tracking your income and expenses. Set aside spending limits for different categories (i.e., rent, shopping, groceries, etc.). Use budgeting apps and tools to help you stay organized. Regularly review and adjust your budget as needed. Remember, it will take time to find a system that works for you but keep trying new things. Make your budget personalized to you and create a system that combats your worst impulses.

Learn More about Budgeting

1. Utilize your student discount and access to freebies (like textbooks and tools at the library).
2. Make use of free campus resources and events.
3. Cut back on expenses that don’t meet your values or that aren’t important to you in favor of the expenses that are.
4. Be patient. You’re working towards becoming financially stable and free, but it will take time to get there.
5. Create a budget so you know where you’re spending your money.

Learn More about saving and investing

Look for part-time job and internship opportunities through the Mississippi State University Career Center or online job boards. Attend job fairs and networking events to connect with potential employers. Update your resume and prepare for interviews. Additionally, consider reaching out to professors or professionals in your field of interest for potential leads or recommendations.

MSU Career Center

You can meet with a Money Mentor at the Student Money Management Center to discuss a personalized plan of action for applying for financial aid. They can provide guidance on completing the FAFSA and State Aid applications, understanding different types of financial aid, and exploring scholarship opportunities.

For information on finding out what you have been awarded, requesting additional aid, and to make changes to your financial aid or scholarships package, please contact the Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships.

Start by creating a budget and tracking your expenses while you're still in college. This will help you develop good financial habits and save for the future. Take advantage of resources like financial planning workshops and sessions offered by the Student Money Management Center to learn about saving, investing, and managing debt. Consider establishing an emergency fund and researching financial strategies for post-graduation, such as loan repayment options and retirement planning.

Learn More about preparing for post-grad