You’ve Graduated—Now What?

Graduating from college opens a world of possibilities—and it’s okay if you’re not sure what will come next. Whether you're considering grad school, jumping into the job market, or taking time to explore your options, the key is to make a plan that aligns with your goals and finances.

• Thinking about grad school? Make sure it supports your long-term career path and budget. Consider the return on investment and whether now is the right time to continue your education.
• Ready to start working? Use tools like our career finder and job search tips to help you craft a standout resume, prepare for interviews, and find opportunities that match your skills and interests.
• Considering a gap year? That could be a smart move. Be sure to budget wisely and use the time to build experience, whether through travel, volunteering, or internships.

No matter your path, we’re here to help with tools like our career finder, checking and savings accounts, and credit cards tailored to where you are and where you're going.

Starting to save after graduation might feel overwhelming—but it’s one of the smartest moves you can make. Here’s how to get started:

• Create a budget you can stick to. Use the 50/30/20 rule to divide your income into needs, wants, and savings. This helps you stay on track while still enjoying your new independence.
• Start small but start now. Even setting aside a little each month can grow over time. Consider setting up automatic transfers to a savings account so you don’t have to think about it.
• Explore savings tools. A high-yield savings account, money market account, or CD (certificate of deposit) can help your money grow while keeping it safe. Consider using our Citizens Savings Tracker® to stay a step ahead on your goals.
• Think long-term with investing. Once you’ve built an emergency fund, look into beginner-friendly investing options to start building wealth.
• Balance saving with paying off debt. If you have student loans, make a plan to pay them down while still contributing to your savings. It’s all about finding the right balance for your goals.

Citizens offers products and tools like student checking and savings accounts, credit cards, and budgeting resources like Citizens Insights to help you build a strong financial foundation.

Starting repayment on your student loans can feel overwhelming—but with a clear plan, you can stay in control and make steady progress.

• Know what you owe. Start by reviewing all your loans—federal and private—including balances, interest rates, and due dates. Use your loan servicer’s dashboard or the National Student Loan Data System (NSLDS) for federal loans.
• Understand your grace period. Most federal loans offer a six-month grace period after graduation before payments begin. Private loans may vary, so check with your lender.
• Explore repayment options. Federal loans offer flexible plans like Income-Driven Repayment (IDR), which adjusts your monthly payment based on your income. You may also qualify for deferment, forbearance, or forgiveness programs depending on your situation.
• Make a plan for private loans. Private loans don’t offer the same flexibility, but you can often refinance to lower your interest rate or consolidate multiple loans into one payment. Just be sure to compare terms carefully.
• Start early if you can. Making even small payments during your grace period can reduce interest and help you build momentum.
• Automate and budget. Set up automatic payments to avoid missed due dates—and consider using a budgeting method to balance loan payments with savings and everyday expenses.

Citizens offers tools and resources to help you manage both federal and private loans, including refinancing options and budgeting tips to support your financial goals after college.

Refinancing your student loans can be a smart move—but timing is everything. You might consider refinancing when:

• Your credit score has improved since you first took out your loans, which could help you qualify for a lower interest rate.
• You have a stable income and feel confident in your ability to make consistent monthly payments.
• You want to simplify repayment by combining multiple loans into one monthly bill.
• You’re not relying on federal loan benefits like income-driven repayment plans, forgiveness programs, or deferment options—since refinancing federal loans with a private lender means giving up those protections.

Refinancing could help you save money over time or reduce your monthly payments, depending on your goals. Be sure to compare rates, terms, and lender benefits before deciding.

Find out if you should refinance.

If you’re heading to grad school, filing the FAFSA is still an important step—but there are a few key differences from undergrad:

• You’re considered independent. That means you’ll only report your own income and assets—not your parents’.
• Loan options are different. Grad students don’t qualify for subsidized loans or Pell Grants. Instead, you may be eligible for Direct Unsubsidized Loans and Grad PLUS Loans, which begin accruing interest right away.
• Some grants are still available. If you’re pursuing a teaching career, you may qualify for TEACH Grants or postbaccalaureate Pell Grants.
• You must reapply each year. Just like undergrad, you’ll need to submit the FAFSA annually while enrolled.

Filing early can help you access the most aid possible. Learn more about the process and what to expect.