FL101: Learn Skills to Increase Your Financial Independence and Manage Your Money

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TRIO students are expected to complete at least one of our short, interactive Financial Literacy online modules (FL 101) each year. The modules are designed to give you the skills necessary to manage your money and increase your financial independence. Each semester, students who have completed a module will be entered into a raffle for a $100 gift certificate at the ASUC store.

To take any module, go online to www.FL101.org. If you are a returning student, log in with your email address and password in the Returning Students section. If you're new to FL101, go to the New Students section, enter in code UCBDSP12 (all caps) and fill out the information on the Course Registration page.

All students on financial aid are encouraged to complete the short module Using Financial Aid to Pay for College (Course number 188). This module describes the basics of financial aid, including the types of aid, applying for aid, borrower responsibilities, and repayment strategies.

Image of course-registration dialog box. Text reads Course Registration. If you have been given a Course Number by your administrator, enter it below to sign up for another course. There is a box to enter the number and an Add Course button.

Financial Literacy 101 is designed for freshman students. Learn about your own financial personality and the basics required to effectively manage money and pay for college.

Financial Literacy 201 (Course number 189) is designed for transfer students and covers topics including maintaining financial health, budgeting, tips on saving money, and paying off student loans.

Financial Literacy 301 (Course number 195) is designed for students preparing for the years after graduation and provides an overview of long-term financial planning strategies including your financial personality, paying off college debts including loan forgiveness and setting long term financial goals.

Note: All modules except FL 101 require a course registration number to add to your list. After you log in, go to the Course Registration section in the bottom right-hand corner of the page, and enter the course number for the module you want to take, then click "Add Course." (Course numbers are: Using Financial Aid: 188; FL 201: 189; FL 301: 195.)

Important Financial Aid Office Information

FAFSA Deadline

Don't forget to reapply for financial aid by filling out your FAFSA starting in early January. The deadline to reapply is March 2nd.

Reduced Course Load and Semesters of Financial Aid Eligibility

Students with disabilities receiving financial aid may take a reduced course load of 6.0-11.0 units. Note: From Fall to Fall, you must complete 16 units. Discuss with your spe-cialist if you have a need for a reduced course load. DSP will submit a Special Circumstances Form to the Financial Aid Office verifying your need for a reduced course load.

The Financial Aid Office may extend semesters of financial aid eligibility for students on a reduced course load.

Note that if you receive a Cal grant or Pell Grant, a reduced course load may affect the amount of financial aid that you receive.

If you need to withdraw, please note that if you withdraw and your last day of attendance is after the 60% point of the semester, you will keep all of your financial aid. If you withdraw before 60% of the semester has passed you will be expected to pay back at least part of your financial aid. For more information and deadline date, go to "Withdrawing and Your Financial Aid"

Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP)

In order to maintain satisfactory academic progress, you must complete the number of approved units you are enrolled in for any semester. Also, if you have submitted a Satisfactory Academic Progress Appeal, you must complete all units specified in the SAP agreement.

Understanding Student Billing (CARS) Statements

The Student Billing Services website offers detailed instructions and videos on understanding CARS billing (e-bill, payments, etc.).

Participate in the SAGE Scholars Program

UC Berkeley's SAGE Scholars Program (Student Achievement Guided by Experience) selects scholars on the basis of financial need, academic status, and outstanding leadership potential. Team-building events, professional coaching, mentoring, and career development classes. Email ucbsage@berkeley.edu; Phone (510) 642-2203.

Credit Reports

Don't be fooled by companies that want to sell you a credit report. You are allowed one free credit report every 12 months. Only one website is authorized to provide free annual credit reports to which you are entitled by law: AnnualCreditReport.com.

Loan Forgiveness & Income-based Repayment Plan

After graduation, you may qualify for Public Service Loan Forgiveness or Income based repayment. For more information, go to IBRInfo.org.

UGBA 196 course, "Personal Financial Management"

Learn how to manage your money and increase your personal financial power, and earn 2 credits (P/NP). Ask your Specialist for details on the next class.

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ASUC VITA: Volunteer Income Tax Assistance

ASUC Legal Clinic's trained and IRS-certified volunteers will help with simple income tax preparations, and referrals to more complex preparation services.