Money Smart Essay Contest

Application Deadline: March 6, 2026

Money Smart week is April 6-12, 2026

Win a College Scholarship

In celebration of Money Smart Wisconsin (April 6 - 12, 2026), the Wisconsin Coalition on Student Debt, along with its partner organizations, is excited to announce the 7th annual Money Smart 2026 Scholarship Contest. We invite Wisconsin's graduating high school seniors to participate by answering this year's Money Smart Question for a chance to win one of several $1,000 scholarships in the form of a contribution to a new or existing Edvest 529 college savings plan account.

How do you plan to be money smart and future ready?  

Student loan debt in Wisconsin for students who graduated with a bachelor’s degree in 2025 averaged $32,619. About two-thirds of all college students take out loans to pay for their educational costs.

We are eager to learn about your plan to finance your college education. Through your essay, demonstrate your ability to think critically, plan realistically, and show how you are preparing for the financial responsibilities of college and beyond.

 Thank you to our Money Smart Wisconsin 2026 Sponsors:

2025 Money Smart Scholarship Winners

Fifteen Wisconsin high school seniors were awarded $1,000 each for their winning essays on how they plan to finance their college education and career training.