Money Smart Essay Contest

The Wisconsin Coalition on Student Debt's annual Money Smart Essay Contest invites Wisconsin graduating high school seniors to compete for college scholarships by answering the question: 'How do you plan to be money smart and future ready?' Winners receive $1,000 scholarships in the form of contributions to a new or existing Edvest 529 college savings plan account. The essay contest, held in celebration of Money Smart Wisconsin week, aims to help students demonstrate their ability to think critically about financing their college education, plan realistically for college costs, and show how they are preparing for the financial responsibilities of college and beyond. Students must write an essay addressing five key prompts: planning for college costs, financing their education, navigating the financial aid process including FAFSA completion, managing student loan debt responsibly in relation to future career income, and balancing financial and academic responsibilities. The contest has awarded multiple scholarships annually, with fifteen winners in 2025, recognizing Wisconsin students who demonstrate thoughtful college planning and financial literacy.