Gaining independence is a key aspect of the college experience. That means making decisions big and small that affect your life in the short and long term—and money likely plays a pivotal role.
Whether you already manage your own finances or this is all new, figuring out how to spend, save, and make money during college can feel intimidating. While everyone’s experience with money is different, achieving financial wellness—feeling confident in effectively managing your money, with a plan for the future—is a great goal that can bolster any financial situation.
Along the way, your Widener community is here to support you. Browse these resources, tips, and strategies for financial wellness. We recognize that finances can be a sensitive topic and are committed to helping you feel empowered to make decisions that are right for you.
Co-op is full-time, paid work experience available to business, engineering, and computer science students. We partner with a wide network of employers across the Philadelphia region and beyond, so you can work with top-notch organizations near and far. Many employers even extend full-time job offers to co-op students after graduation!
Some students are eligible to earn extra funds through the federal work-study program as part of their financial aid offer. You may work up to 20 hours per week during any week in which classes are held, and you'll be paid biweekly at a rate of at least the current minimum wage.
University employment may also be available if you are not eligible for work-study employment. You'll be paid biweekly at a rate of at least the current minimum wage.
College of Arts & Sciences students interested in pursuing an internship are encouraged to apply for financial assistance through the Experience MORE! program. If selected as an awardee, you’ll receive a stipend to subsidize your work at an unpaid or underpaid internship, meaning you can get both the experience and the paycheck.
Maximize Your Financial Aid
Tapping into financial aid is a critical step on the path to managing the costs of college.
Pursue private scholarships. In addition to the scholarships Widener offers—for which you're automatically considered when you submit the FAFSA—you may seek additional financial assistance by applying for private scholarships.
Set up a semester payment plan. You'll pay an installment of your tuition each month of the semester. Making smaller payments more frequently can help you stick to your budget and avoid interest.
Submit your FAFSA. It's your gateway to grants, loans, and other forms of financial aid. Be sure to use Widener's school code: 003313.
As you take steps to optimize your financial situation, these tools can help you make informed choices about managing your finances.
Budgeting Support
Keeping track of how much money you spend in a specific time frame, and where it goes, is powerful knowledge. Budgeting is an excellent way to do just that. It will also help you to plan for future expenses—including saving up for large purchases and putting money aside to cover unexpected, emergency expenses.
Credit is a cornerstone of your financial landscape, and maintaining good credit has significant advantages: It can help you secure better interest rates on loans, credit cards, and large purchases. You'll also likely encounter credit checks if you apply to rent an apartment, and a good score can be critical to unlocking the opportunity.
When you start a job or another type of paid work experience, it's important to familiarize yourself with how taxes work, from understanding why certain taxes are deducted from your paycheck, to knowing how and when to file income taxes.
Scams targeting young adults—such as fake apartment rental and job listings, fabricated debt-relief opportunities, and messages from scammers who claim to be someone you know asking for money—aim to trick you into providing your personal information. Luckily, there are telltale signs to identify a scam—and steps you can take to protect your identity.
Pride Pantries are located at various spots around campus, where students can take food items they need.
Freedom Hall (2nd floor, directly above Freshens)
Kirkbride (3rd floor lobby, near the lobby study area)
Academic Center North (1st floor, central student collaboration space)
Quick Center (1st floor near the student lounge)
Wolfgram Library (entrance area)
If you or your family experience food insecurity during a time when you are unable to access a Pride Pantry, you can visit any of these sites in Delaware County.
Widener's Student Emergency Fund Application assists current undergraduate and graduate students in navigating unexpected financial dilemmas that may negatively impact their continued studies, including job loss, family crisis, debilitating illness, and major national crises.
Funds have been made available through the donations of alumni, faculty, staff and friends. The availability of awards is dependent on the balance of the fund.
Report a Food or Housing Emergency
If you are experiencing a food or housing emergency, we are here to support you and connect you with resources. Speaking to a CARE Team member can be a crucial step in addressing your situation, ensuring a sensitive and private approach to handling the information.
In today's digital world, maintaining cybersecurity is crucial, especially for students juggling multiple responsibilities, making them prime targets for scammers. Awareness of threats like phishing, vishing, and smishing, along with practical tips for creating strong passwords and recognizing suspicious communications, can significantly enhance personal safety and security online.