College Resources

Navigate your college journey with expert guidance, planning tools, and personalized support from 3Rivers.
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Expert Guidance at Every Stage

Our Youth & College Support Team brings specialized experience helping students and families minimize student loan debt. Before recommending any student loan, we provide college and career counseling to guide you in selecting schools and career paths aligned with your financial situation.

Your Roadmap to Paying for College

Big college choices deserve clear financial answers. Our FREE, comprehensive College Funding Guide helps students and families understand costs, options, and next steps.

 

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Free Planning Resources 
  • College financial planner Excel tool to track living expenses and student loan debt 
  • Funding guide covering savings, scholarships, grants, and federal aid options 
  • FAFSA overview with preparation checklist, deadlines, and application requirements 
  • Student loan refinance guide explaining fixed and variable rate comparisons 
  • Career pathway resources for northeast, central, and east central Indiana, and St. Mary's, Ohio 

Get Started with Free Resources

College Planning Tools

Access comprehensive planning tools, guides, and calculators designed specifically for students and families.

Maximize Free Money for College

Before taking out student loans, explore all scholarships and grants. Our Youth & College Support Team helps identify personalized opportunities based on academics, activities, service, and career goals. Indiana students may qualify for programs like 21st Century Scholars and the Workforce Ready Grant, which can cover tuition and fees at eligible schools.

3Rivers also offers an annual scholarship contest for undergraduate, graduate, and adult learners. Connect with our Youth & College advisors to build a smart scholarship strategy and uncover free money for college.

Your Educational Journey

Products by Life Stage

Discover financial solutions designed for each stage of your educational path from K-12 through career launch and beyond.
A mom sending her daughter to school

K-12 Students

Youth accounts & financial basics
A college student on a tablet

College Students

Livin' Free account ages 13-25
A man signing a piece of paper

Graduates

Loan refinancing options

Additional Planning Tools

Trusted External Resources

Explore valuable external resources recommended by our Youth & College Support Team for your college planning.
Common Questions About Funding Education

College Planning Questions Answered

Get clear answers to frequently asked questions about college financial planning, FAFSA, and student loans.
What banking accounts should college students open?

3Rivers offers Livin' Free Checking and Livin' Free Savings for members ages 13-25* with no monthly maintenance fees. Accounts include online banking, mobile check deposit, and budgeting tools for students.

*Account available to members aged 13-25. Livin' Free Checking accounts will transition to Standard Checking when the primary accountholder turns 26 years of age.
Can 3Rivers help me with personalized college planning?
Absolutely! Our Youth & College Support Team provides one-on-one guidance on college funding, scholarship searches, FAFSA completion, and refinancing strategies. Schedule a meeting at college@trfcu.org or 260.399.8265.
How can I reduce my total college costs?
Maximize free money through scholarships, grants, and work-study. Consider community college for general education, living with roommates, utilizing meal plans, and applying for Indiana programs like 21st Century Scholars. 
What's the difference between subsidized and unsubsidized loans?
Subsidized federal loans are need-based, and the government pays interest while enrolled at least half-time. Unsubsidized loans aren't need-based, and interest accrues from disbursement. Both require FAFSA.
When should I consider refinancing my student loans?
Refinancing can result in lower interest rates and affordable payments. However, refinancing federal loans into private loans permanently eliminates federal benefits like income-driven repayment and forgiveness.
Should I choose federal or private student loans?
Always exhaust federal student loan options first. Federal loans offer income-driven repayment plans, deferment options, and potential forgiveness programs. Private loans may have higher rates and fewer protections.
What is the FAFSA and when should I complete it?
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) determines eligibility for federal grants, subsidized and unsubsidized loans, and work-study programs. Complete annually starting October 1st for maximum aid opportunities.

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