This time of year moves fast. One minute you’re reviewing financial aid offers and the next, new costs and deadlines start showing up. Hello, decision season.
As part of this month’s Money Monday, we’re focusing on what comes next so nothing catches you off guard.
Here are a few common costs families don’t always plan for (and when they’re usually due):
- Housing deposits (often due within 2–4 weeks of acceptance)
Some are refundable, but only until a certain date. After that, you may lose the deposit if plans change. - Enrollment/orientation fees (typically due May–June)
These secure your spot and register you for orientation. - Meal plans (selected in late spring or early summer)
Many schools require first-year students to choose a plan before arrival. - Move-in + travel costs (July–August)
Think flights, gas, dorm supplies, and setup costs. - Books and supplies (right before classes start)
First-semester costs can easily range from a few hundred dollars and up.
These don’t always show up clearly in your initial offer, but they’re part of your real cost.
A simple next step:
Take 10-15 minutes to map out what’s due in the next 30-60 days.
Check your college portal or admitted student page, most schools outline these deadlines clearly once you know where to look.
If anything feels unclear, don’t hesitate to reach out to the financial aid or admissions office. That’s what they’re there for.
Red Kite Pro Tip: If there’s still a gap between your aid and your total cost, you still have options. Keep applying for scholarships, even small ones can add up quickly over the summer. If you need to move quickly, our Need Money ASAP page walks you through last-minute college costs and a step-by-step plan to find funding fast.
Looking Ahead: Your Summer Money Plan
Summer is one of the best opportunities to ease that gap before fall, but the key is having a solid plan.
Step 1: Set a clear goal
Start with a number (ex: \$1,500 by August).
Then break it down: that’s about \$125/week over 12 weeks.
Step 2: Build your income plan
Look beyond just one job:
- Part-time work (retail, food service, campus jobs)
- Local opportunities (babysitting, tutoring, lawn care)
- Short-term gigs (moving help, pet sitting, event work)
Check:
- Local Facebook/community groups
- School or district job boards
- Community centers or libraries
- Word of mouth (still one of the fastest ways to find work)
Step 3: Make saving automatic
- Set aside a percentage of every paycheck (even 20–30%)
- Use a separate account if possible
- Treat savings like a non-negotiable expense
Step 4: Keep momentum going
As you’re earning, keep applying. Even setting aside one hour a week to apply for scholarships can make a difference.
You can use Red Kite to save opportunities, track deadlines, and find quick-apply scholarships that fit into your schedule.
Taking these steps, understanding your full cost, planning ahead, and building a simple income plan, can help you stay in control of what comes next.
We’re here to support you along the way.
