Heading off to college? Here are some tips for managing your finances

The briefing

Financial experts offer students advice on building credit, budgeting and saving as they head to college. They recommend starting with a secured or student credit card and spending only what can be paid off monthly, and dividing monthly bills by four to set weekly savings targets when income is irregular. Other guidance includes building an emergency fund before investing, talking openly about money with friends, understanding student loan totals before graduation and using free campus resources.