Money Matters
Campus assistance, resource, and support (CAReS) for basic needs and financial wellness.
College is an investment in yourself and your future. Healthy money habits can help you stretch the dollars you have today while preparing for tomorrow. We can help you create a financial action plan that fits your life, one semester at a time.
If money is causing stress or affecting your well-being, free on-campus counseling is also available to eligible students.
Contact Us
Worried about having enough money to cover your expenses this semester or next? Let’s talk. Connect with us by email, voicemail, or in-person.
Stop by the Fallerius Building or explore the resources below. We can help you find financial tools, Ohio Benefits programs, and other support.
Student Support Services
Fallerius Building
419-755-4730
nc-cares@ncstatecollege.edu
Budgeting
Whether you are working part-time, working full-time, receiving financial aid, or juggling several sources of income, we can help you make that work for your circumstances.
CashCourse
CashCourse is a free online financial education tool available to NC State students.
Learn at your own pace with short videos, interactive tools, calculators, and quizzes.
Topics include:
- Saving and investing
- Managing student loans
- Protecting yourself from financial scams
- Career planning
- Everyday money management
CashCourse is provided through the Higher Education Financial Wellness Alliance (HEFWA), a nonprofit organization that provides financial education without trying to sell you financial products.
Essential Financial Tools
A checking or savings account can make it easier to manage your money, receive direct deposits, and set money aside for upcoming expenses.
When choosing a bank or credit union, shop around. Ask about student accounts and no-fee options, and watch for monthly or other account fees.
Credit Unions are another option. They’re member-owned, not-for-profit financial institutions that may offer competitive rates and low-fee services.
Tuition, Fees, & Financial Aid
Stay on top of your college expenses by checking your MyNC Hub student portal regularly. You can review:
- Tuition and fees
- Financial aid, including grants, scholarships, and loans
- Your balance
- Payment plans
Consider signing up for NC State’s payment plan at the beginning of each semester.
Not sure where to start? Our resource navigator can help you understand your options and show you how to use MyNC Hub.
Student Loans
Student loans can help cover college costs, but remember: loans have to be paid back. Unlike grants and scholarships, loans can add to your future expenses, especially when interest is involved.
Before accepting a loan, make sure you understand how much you’ll owe and when repayment begins. Taking time away from school can also affect when repayment starts.
Federal student loans require an online entrance counseling course so you understand the terms of your loan.
Tip: Borrow only what you need, keep track of what you owe, and check in with Financial Aid regularly. CashCourse can also help you learn more about managing student loans.
Necessities Loan Fund
The North Central State College Foundation offers a no-fee loan program for eligible students who receive little or no financial aid and need help covering college expenses.
Depending on program requirements, the loan may be forgiven and become a gift.
Want to know if you qualify? Connect with our resource navigator.
Ohio Benefits
You may be eligible for financial assistance through Ohio Benefits, including Ohio Works First (OWF), the cash-assistance portion of the Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF) program.
Eligible families can receive cash benefits for up to 36 months. Many students are surprised to learn that they may qualify.
Not sure? We can help you explore your options and navigate the application process.
Money & Mental Health
When you are worried about paying bills or running out of money, it can be difficult to focus on school, work, and everyday life.
If you’d like some help managing the stress that comes with money, or simply want to feel better about your relationship with finances, consider talking with a counselor. You may only need a few conversations to get some perspective and find a path forward.
Currently enrolled NC State students who are no longer in high school are eligible for free on-campus counseling.
You can also explore Thrive! for mental health, physical health, and wellness resources, or use our Resource Guide to find services in your community.
Ohio Benefits can also help you explore Ohio Medicaid and other health-related programs.
