Why Exploring Finances Matters
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Managing money wisely is critical for success in college and beyond. Understanding financial aid, budgeting, saving, and credit helps you reduce stress, avoid debt, and make informed decisions that support your education and long-term financial goals.
Learning Outcomes
Learning Outcomes
Students will be able to:
Identify the types of financial aid available (loans, grants, WV Invests, TANF/WV WORKS supports).
Distinguish between subsidized and unsubsidized loans and understand repayment responsibilities.
Track personal income and expenses using a budgeting tool.
Apply strategies to save money, manage credit, and plan for unexpected costs.
Know how to contact Financial Aid or DoHS caseworkers for support.
This module will take about 30 minutes to complete, including the activity.
This module will take about 30 minutes to complete, including the activity.
Financial Aid
Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®)
Loans vs. Grants
A loan is borrowed money that needs to be paid back with interest.
A loan is borrowed money that needs to be paid back with interest.
Student loans are much like any other loan, except that they are specifically used to pay for educational expenses (ex, tuition, textbooks, room & board).
While loans can be a good option for paying for college, it is important to understand what they involve. Otherwise, you might take on a financial burden difficult to pay off.
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In relation to need-based loans...
What are the differences between subsidized and unsubsidized (need-based) loans?
Subsidized student loans are federal loans in which the government pays the interest for you while you are in school and you start paying interest when you leave school.
Unsubsidized student loans will accrue (accumulate) interest while you are in school, and the interest will be added to the amount due.
Grants are basically free money.
Grants are basically free money.
The federal government, the states, and various institutions award grant money to students without expecting them to pay any of it back.
Some grants are available to students who participate in specific activities, other grants are offered to students who excel in school.
For example, both the Pell Grant and WV Higher Education Grants are provided for students of lower-income families.
Research grants available to college to see what you might qualify for.
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West Virginia Invests Grant
Borrow Wisely
Most college students will need to take out some student loans—but it’s important to only borrow what you truly need.
Before accepting loans, research your tuition, fees, and living expenses, and create a budget to guide your decisions.
Financial Aid Reimbursements: Use With Caution
If your financial aid award is more than your tuition and fees, you may receive a reimbursement (extra funds sent to you after costs are covered).
Before spending that money:
Be sure you’ve accounted for books, supplies, or fees you might need in future semesters.
If you charge items at the Campus Store after receiving a reimbursement, those charges may be added back to your Pierpont account, creating a balance you must repay.
Unpaid balances can place a hold on your account, preventing you from registering for the next semester.
Financial Help through TANF/WV WORKS
As a student in the WV WORKS Program, you may have access to some helpful extras you might not know about! Through the Department of Human Services (D0HS), you may be eligible for support with:
Computers or tech for class
Course-related equipment not provided by or paid for by Pierpont or other grants
School supplies like paper, printers, pens, etc.
Childcare assistance
Help with transportation
To learn more or find out if you qualify, reach out to your DoHS caseworker!
Personal Finance
Build a Budget & Follow It
Build a Budget & Follow It
Income Tracker
Where does all my money come from?
Spending Tracker
Where does all my money go?
Bill Calendar
What are all my bills and when are they due?
Goal Setting
What is one thing I want to change?
Short-Term Strategies
How can I get extra money out of my situation?
Prioritizing Bills
How do I make tough choices in tight months?
Workbook provided by
Consumer Financial Protection Bureau
cfpb_your-money-your-goals_behind-on-bills_booklet_cobrand.pdfBe Flexible.
Budgets should change as life does. You might have:
Higher expenses at the beginning of the semester
Unexpected housing costs
Changes in income from jobs or internships
Summer sessions not fully covered by financial aid
Adjust your budget regularly so you’re prepared, not surprised.
Print the templates below to create your own weekly & monthly budgets!
Print the templates below to create your own weekly & monthly budgets!
(This is not a required part of the Boot Camp.)
(This is not a required part of the Boot Camp.)
Weekly Spending Log.pdfMonthly College Budget.pdfCredit Cards
Credit Cards
If you have to have a credit card, you should research the best options.
Ask the credit card company to explain the fine print of a potential contract.
The True Cost of Credit Cards
Credit cards might seem like a helpful way to buy now and pay later—but high interest rates can cost you more in the long run.
For example:
A $3,000 credit card balance with a 21% APR (interest rate) could cost you over $5,200 if only minimum payments are made—and take almost 6 years to pay off!
Smart Credit Card Use
Only use your card for things you can afford to pay off in full within 1–2 months.
Credit cards can help you build credit, protect against fraud, and track your spending—but they’re not a way to live beyond your means.
Building good credit habits now will benefit you later when you apply for loans for a car, apartment, or home.
Find ways to save, but use student discounts wisely
Find ways to save, but use student discounts wisely
Compare prices on cell phone plans and utility providers
Cook at home, use local food pantries, and buy in bulk when possible
Shop at thrift stores for clothes and home items
Quit costly habits like smoking
Try DIY projects and barter services with friends (e.g., trade baked goods for help fixing something)
Look for student discounts—but avoid impulse buys just because something is “on sale”
Any money saved? Add it to an emergency or savings fund
Reduce your textbook spending
Reduce your textbook spending
Textbooks can be one of the biggest college expenses—but there are ways to save:
Rent or buy used books when possible
Check online retailers for lower prices
Borrow from classmates or students who already took the course
Ask your instructor if alternatives are available
If you can’t afford your required textbook:
Pierpont allows you to charge textbooks to your financial aid through the Campus Store. Click below for more information.
or Contact Financial Aid:
financialaid@pierpont.edu | 304-367-4907
Certificate of Completion Activity
Certificate of Completion Activity
To check out Finances on our website, click on the button below.
To check out Finances on our website, click on the button below.
For more information or to meet with a Financial Aid counselor, contact:
For more information or to meet with a Financial Aid counselor, contact:
304-333-3642 | financialaid@pierpont.edu
304-333-3642 | financialaid@pierpont.edu
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