The American Bankers Association Education Foundation offers 10 tips and ideas to make your financial transition into college independence much easier:

1. Create a budget. To be fiscally fit you need to know how much goes in and out of your account. Keep monthly records of your spending and living expenses.

2. Get organized. Keep ATM transaction receipts, bills, purchases and tax records organized together in labeled files. This will help you stay on track with your budget and make it easier when it's time to pay bills.

3. Buy used books. Used books are usually in good condition and cost about half the price of new books.

4. Keep the car home. Parking, insurance, and theft are additional worries that most college students could live without. More than likely everything you need is within walking distance.

5. Shop around. Compare prices and be selective to get the best prices, services, convenient locations and lowest fees for credit cards and bank accounts.

6. Get smart about credit. Credit cards are not magic money; they're a loan with an obligation to repay. Don't spend more than you can afford to pay back.

7. Live within your means. Don't buy what you can't afford.

8. Smart spending equals savings. Find inexpensive ways to entertain yourself. Visit museums, parks or read at the coffeehouse, check out sales racks, consignment shops, cut coupons or search the Internet. If you do a little research, you will save money.

9. Protect yourself. Don't be a victim of fraud or identity theft. Guard your credit card, PIN and account numbers. Buy a shredder so you can dispose of statements, receipts and bills properly.

10. Pay attention. Read your bills and statements each month. This helps you keep track of your spending, alerts you to fraud and any mistakes that may occur on your account