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iGrad: A Financial Education Resource for College Students

Published: September 5, 2024

iGrad: A Financial Education Resource for College Students

Whether you’re saving for tuition or learning how to manage your finances while in school, having a solid understanding of personal finance can make a world of difference. To help you on this journey, USSFCU has teamed up with iGrad, an award-winning financial education platform designed to guide students through key financial decisions.

Why Saving for College Matters

With tuition costs continuing to rise, saving for college is one of the most important steps students and families can take. But saving is just one part of the equation. Understanding how to manage financial aid, student loans, and other education-related expenses is equally critical. Learning about the best ways to pay for college early on can reduce financial stress and keep you focused on what matters most—your education.

How iGrad Can Help You Save for College

iGrad is packed with resources to help college students and their families make informed decisions about financing their education. Here are some of the ways iGrad can assist you in preparing for college costs:

1. Understanding College Savings Plans

iGrad offers interactive resources and articles that explain the various options available for saving for college, such as 529 plans. These tools will help you understand the benefits of saving early and provide insights into how tax-advantaged savings accounts can maximize your contributions over time.

2. Budgeting Tools to Maximize Your Savings

College students often juggle multiple expenses — from tuition and books to everyday living costs. iGrad's budgeting tools allow you to track your spending and ensure you're saving enough for educational expenses. Whether you’re budgeting for tuition or trying to stretch your dollars while in school, these tools can help you develop a plan and stick to it.

3. Financial Aid and Scholarships

Navigating financial aid can be overwhelming, but iGrad simplifies the process by offering valuable resources to help you understand award letters, student loans, and scholarship opportunities. Their scholarship search tool is a great way to find additional funding to help lower the amount you need to borrow. By exploring financial aid options early, you can make more informed decisions about how to pay for college.

4. Student Loan Guidance

Many students rely on loans to cover their education costs, but it’s crucial to understand how loans work. iGrad provides detailed information on federal and private student loans, smart borrowing tips, and how to manage your debt after graduation. By making informed choices upfront, you can minimize the amount of debt you accumulate and learn how to handle repayment effectively.

5. Personalized Learning

iGrad offers personalized recommendations based on your financial goals and habits. Whether you're looking to save for college, manage loans, or build your credit, the platform tailors its content to fit your needs. These customized learning paths can help you stay focused and make progress toward your financial goals.

Why Financial Literacy is Key to College Success

Learning to manage your finances early is a critical life skill, especially when it comes to paying for higher education. By taking advantage of iGrad's resources and attending educational webinars like ours, you’ll be better prepared to handle the financial responsibilities of college and beyond.

Get Started with iGrad Through USSFCU

At USSFCU, we believe financial literacy is essential for success in college and in life. That’s why we offer free access to iGrad for all our members. Whether you’re just beginning your college journey. preparing for graduation, or still in high school, iGrad’s resources can help you make smarter financial decisions and plan for your future.

Access iGrad today to explore everything the platform has to offer.

Access iGrad

 

Article content is provided for information purposes only.

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Members' Voice Testimonials

This credit union is the best, I love the customer service and you can't beat the interest rates. I'm happy to be a member of this great credit union.

- James · Locust Grove, GA

The branch manager introduced herself and was extremely helpful. She stated that if there is anything we ever need to please let her know. Very positive experience!

- Larry · Cumberland, MD

Greta was absolutely amazing - as always. She makes me and my parents feel valued and supported. We are forever grateful. [The Credit Union] has been hugely supportive over many years. And we feel known and cared for.

- Eliza · Washington, DC

Long as I have been with the credit union, I haven't had any problems. I also like the protection on my account.

- Charles · Upper Marlboro, MD

My overall experience at the credit union was exceptional. The staff was hospitable offering water, my service was timely and professional and the office was well lit and clean.

- Denise · Washington, DC

As a member for more than 40 years, i have always had great service from the USSFCU and know that they stand behind their great reputation.

- David · Silver Spring, MD

A top rate Credit Union, [I'm] privileged to be part of! Thank you for all you do for our family! USSFCU Credit Union was able to resolve our financial situation - vehicle, personal loans, customer service/recommendations, within 6 months. We belonged to another credit union for over 20 years, with results not even close to comparison. We switched ...

- Manuel · Bowie, MD

Your people and products are amazing. The recent [online banking] overhaul is phenomenal. [I've] been electronic banking since Tele action phone banking - paying bills with my push button landline decades ago. USSFCU is light years ahead of everyone else in terms of ease of use and client experience!

- Misty · Brookings, OR

I have been a member for more than 30 years. I no longer reside in the DC area but continue to bank with USSFCU because of the ease and the customer service.

- Tamra · Denver, CO

I have been a member for over 50 years, and I have always gotten good service with loans, when I had to have service at a branch, and when I needed to have money sent to me from my savings account. The personnel have always been friendly and treated me with respect.

- John · Fort Washington, MD

I especially appreciate being able to quickly speak with someone (not a robot) and that person has always been knowledgeable and helpful.

- Bernard · Richmond, VA

Excellent customer service streamlined and transparent process. The representatives are efficient, knowledgeable, and understanding of the type of loans offered by Credit Union.

- Erwin · Ellicott City, MD

The USSFCU behaves as a credit union ought to behave. The staff works with and for the members, not for a corporate board. Interest rates for a car loan, a home improvement loan, and a mortgage are low and terms are transparent.

- Ruth · Takoma Park, MD

Staff are courteous and friendly to work with. Very knowledgeable about services and products offered or available. Excellent follow-up with customers.

- Jacquelyn · Sanford, FL

I have appreciated USSFCU services for many years since I left my work on Capitol Hill. I have appreciated the occasional webinars on purchasing a home or retirement planning.

- Jamie · Washington, DC

I have been a member since 2006, and have always appreciated the customer service response to any concern or query. In addition, as I have traveled extensively, USSFCU has provided support and access.

- Kathleen · Ukiah, CA

I've had a credit union account for decades, even though I no longer work on Capitol Hill. I now have two accounts. I've been able to do all of our banking remotely, by app or by phone.

- Richard · Washington, DC

I have been a USSFCU member for almost 20 years. There is nowhere else I want my money to be. I always receive excellent service.

- Nicole · Alexandria, VA

I deeply appreciate the stellar service, the proficiency, the professionalism, and the kindness. I am truly honored and grateful to bank with a financial institution that treats customers like family.

- Angela · Alexandria, VA

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