The Best Financial Platforms & Apps for College Students

All-In-One Budgeting and Expense Tracking
Several financial platforms and apps stand out as valuable resources for college students aiming to maintain control over their finances. Here are a few notable options:

Mint: This app offers comprehensive budgeting tools, expense tracking, and customized financial advice, making it ideal for managing personal finances effectively.
EveryDollar: Known for its user-friendly interface and suitability for budget tracking, EveryDollar is a practical tool for college students to monitor their spending habits and manage their budgets efficiently.
Albert: This app provides personalized budgeting and money-saving recommendations, making it beneficial for students looking to optimize their spending and saving patterns.
Tailored Budgeting Tools and Resources
For students seeking specialized budgeting features, the following platforms offer unique advantages:

Goodbudget: With its digital envelope system, Goodbudget enables students to categorize their expenses effectively and stay on top of their budget limits.
PocketGuard: This app provides spending analyses and personalized recommendations to help users reduce unnecessary expenses, making it a valuable tool for college students striving to manage their budgets more effectively.
Digital Envelope Budgeting and Spreadsheet Tools
Some students may prefer more traditional methods or customizable solutions for budgeting:

Microsoft Excel and Google Sheets: These widely used spreadsheet tools provide flexibility for creating and managing budgets, allowing students to tailor their financial tracking to their specific needs and preferences.
Low-Cost Investment and Banking Options
In addition to budgeting tools, college students can benefit from low-cost financial services, including:

SoFi Invest: Recommended for its low-cost trading features and ease of use, SoFi Invest is an ideal platform for students interested in starting their investment journey.
Chase Bank College Checking Account: This account stands out for its low monthly fees and benefits tailored specifically for college students.
Educational Resources and Financial Literacy Platforms
To supplement budgeting and financial management, various apps offer educational resources and guidance customized for college students:

YNAB (You Need A Budget): This app provides a unique opportunity for students to use the budgeting tool for free for a year, supporting effective money management during the college years.
iGrad and CampusLogic: These platforms focus on educating students about personal finance, student loans, and smart financial decision-making, enhancing financial literacy and decision-making abilities.
RaiseMe: This scholarship platform helps students earn micro-scholarships, offering valuable support in college financing.