Pre Graduate/Professional Study Debt Management Tips

Develop a savings account for emergencies.

Try to pay off as much consumer debt prior to entering school.
• Federal regulations prohibit financial aid to be used for consumer debt such as car payments and credit cards.

Come up with a budget.
• You can review your average budget costs by program.

• You can calculate and figure your personal budget costs here.

Consider finding a roommate.
• The MUSC Student Programs and Off-Campus Housing Office has a listing of persons looking for roommates and off campus houses and apartments in the community.

Consider other methods of transportation.
• You can cut down on gas and parking expenses by carpooling with a classmate or riding public transportation such as CARTA.

Be prepared to have at least one month’s worth of living expenses saved before you start school. 
• Financial aid is not available until the first day of classes. Please plan accordingly.