Supporting students who plan ahead
The DebtSmarts "Budgeting for Success" Scholarship is for students who are currently enrolled in a Wisconsin two-year, four-year, or Registered Apprenticeship Program and are taking practical, strategic steps towards successfully completing their degrees or career credentials affordably.
This $1,000 scholarship recognizes and supports students who are learning to balance short-term needs and long-term goals — skills that will serve them well beyond graduation.
Beginning in 2026, two $1,000 scholarships will be awarded annually. The award may be used for tuition, textbooks, required supplies, housing, transportation, or other educational expenses during the academic year. Scholarships are one-time, non-renewable awards.
Who can apply?
🎯 IMPORTANT: For the inaugural year (2026), this scholarship is exclusively open to past Money Smart Scholarship winners. If you are not a past Money Smart winner, you are not eligible to apply at this time.
Applicants must meet all of the following:
- Be currently enrolled in a two- or four-year college, university, or Registered Apprenticeship Program in Wisconsin
- Plan to continue enrollment through the upcoming academic year
- Be pursuing a degree or credential in any field
- Submit a video (2–3 minutes) or written essay (400–600 words) in response to the application prompt
- Be making Satisfactory Academic Progress (no minimum GPA requirement — the committee values creativity, authenticity, and practical insight)
Tell us your story
"Describe how you budget for both short-term needs and long-term goals to get through your degree or credential. What strategies or tools have helped you most?"
Applicants are encouraged to share specific examples from their own experience — whether it's managing part-time work and classes, making smart financial tradeoffs, or planning ahead for post-graduation goals.
Videos may include interviews, storytelling, or creative visual elements. Essays should be 400–600 words. Both formats are welcome — video is preferred.
What we're looking for
Clarity & Originality
A clear, unique take on your personal budgeting experience and financial journey.
Practical Creativity
Real strategies and tools you've used — not theory, but what actually works for you.
Personal Reflection
Authenticity matters. Share your honest experience, including challenges and growth.
Quality of Presentation
Strong writing for essays; thoughtful production and delivery for video submissions.
Ready to apply?
Applications open June 1, 2026 at DebtSmarts.org/success-scholarship. Here's what you'll need to do:
- Complete a brief online form with your contact and enrollment information.
- Confirm you've filed your 2026–27 FAFSA. This is required for all applicants.
- Upload your submission — either a written essay (400–600 words) or a video link via YouTube or Google Drive. Video is preferred.
- Submit by June 30, 2026. Late applications will not be considered.
June 1, 2026 — Applications Open
Portal goes live at DebtSmarts.org/success-scholarship
June 30, 2026 — Application Deadline
All submissions must be received by end of day
August 1, 2026 — Winners Announced
Recipients recognized on DebtSmarts.org and social media channels
More than just a scholarship
Scholarship recipients will serve as student members of the Wisconsin Coalition on Student Debt — a statewide coalition of student advocates shaping the conversation around college affordability.
Your financial story matters
Applications are open from June 1 to June 30, 2026. Don't miss your chance to be recognized and supported as a student who's taking their financial future seriously.
Start Your Application →
