University of Illinois System

Spend

Modules in the Spend course include:

Budget Hacks

If you're looking for new ways to manage your money, we have the Budget Hacks for you! Learn how to take what we know about human behavior and choices to build better financial habits.

Speed vs Savings

Speed vs Savings explores key aspects of the car purchasing process as well as costs you'll need to consider to make the most out of your automobile ownership experience.

Cash at College

Cash at College is geared towards incoming college students to explain a broad range of financial topics: budgeting, banking, credit, funding your degree, and making the most of your time on campus.

Spooked by Spending Plans?

Scared of the B word? Budgets can feel restrictive, but you can learn what drives our spending desires and how to conquer them to gain control over your financial fears with Spooked by Spending Plans?

Life Transitions

This module is currently under construction but will cover many major life transitions and what to consider as you roll them into your financial plan. 

S.M.A.R.T. Study Abroad

Not sure how to fund your study abroad? Whether you're going abroad for a few weeks or a few semesters, creating a S.M.A.R.T. Study Abroad financial plan can secure your wellness while abroad.

Enrollment Instructions

Enroll in the Spend Course

To enroll in a Badges course,

  1. Visit the Spend course link (button provided above).
  2. Click the orange NetID Login button. 
  3. Log in with your NetID & password (requires 2FA).
  4. Under Self-enrollment (Student), click the "Enroll Me" button.*
  5. Complete the modules that interest you.

Learning Objectives of the Spend Course

Financial decision-making occurs on an almost constant basis. Overcoming spending temptations from advertising, planning for fixed and variable expenses, and accounting for your daily needs all consider the concept of spending. After obtaining the Spend badge, you should:

  • Be able to develop a spending plan.
  • Track your spending habits.
  • Understand what it means to live within your means.
  • Know the social and environmental impacts of your spending decisions.
  • Understand how to evaluate new technologies for managing money (e.g., mobile wallets).

To get the Spend badge, you must participate in at least three spend-focused learning activities, β€‹at least one of which is highly encouraged to be in person.​

Check our calendar or enroll in the Spend badge course for activities that count towards the Spend badge.