Aug 03, 2016

Gearing up for college? Remember to Live Like a Student.

As students start to gear up to head back to school, the UNI Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships is gearing up for another semester of helping students learn what it means to "Live Like a Student."

Starting its seventh year, the overall purpose of the Live Like a Student program is to educate students on the importance of living within their means while they are in school, ultimately reducing student loan indebtedness. The program is credited for helping UNI students reduce their average student loan debt by 13 percent over the past six years, bucking the national trend.

"Since the inception of the course we've seen students gain a greater understanding of how their actions today will affect their financial future," said Tim Bakula, associate director of financial aid.

The course teaches students how to budget effectively and manage financial goals. The programming includes non­credit classes, small group workshops and financial counseling, all of which work to break down the complexities of financial aid, student loans, credit reports and credit cards.

UNI programming like Live Like a Student is a testament to its commitment to equipping Panthers with the skills necessary to be successful both before and after they graduate.

Did You Know?

88% of all UNI students receive aid. Of first­ year students, 95% receive aid ­ 62% take out loans and 84% receive grants and scholarships. UNI continues to provide an outstanding education and the resources needed to make it happen!