Frequently Asked Questions

Each year runs from October through April, excluding January.

There will be one session per month, excluding January, for a total of six sessions. Each session will last approximately 75 minutes with a start time of 7:00 pm through 8:15 pm.

The session dates are listed at the bottom of the application in the Graduation Requirements section and are generally the first Monday of each month. Any variances will be communicated as early as possible, with the only exception being weather postponements. If severe weather occurs, NLU representatives will contact each student.

Each session will be held in the third floor banquet room of NebraskaLand Bank’s Main location at 1400 South Dewey.

Please bring a pencil or a pen to each class and your NLU binder which will be provided to you on the first day of class.

Students are expected to notify NLU representatives prior to an absence. Two absences are allowed but the student is responsible to coordinate their session make-up in order to graduate.

Each year a NebraskaLand Bank committee reviews applications. The Bank will select the students they feel will benefit the most from the program through active participation and genuine interest. Applicants will be selected based on the letter of recommendation and resume provided and the responses to the application questions. Answers should exhibit a sincere, personal commitment, motivation and interest in learning the principles of personal finance. The program is a significant investment of bank resources and it is vitally important that the students give each instructor the utmost respect as they are donating their time and knowledge.

Applicants must:

• Attend school and reside in North Platte or surrounding areas
• Commit to full participation in the program, including six sessions, completion of coursework, and make up sessions if applicable.
• Demonstrate motivation and a sincere desire to learn the principles of personal finance
• Submit a complete application including signature by a parent or guardian as well as a letter of recommendation and resume

The program is offered to students for free.

Each student that successfully completes the program and meets all the graduation requirements will receive:

• A $250 academic scholarship
• A free NLU Sweatshirt
• A free copy of the book students are required to read
• A certificate of completion
• Strategies to pay for college education without reliance on student loans
• Invaluable knowledge of Personal Finance
• A chance to be the essay contest winner and recipient of:
  • 1st Place: $1,000 academic scholarship
  • 2nd Place: $750 academic scholarship
  • 3rd Place: $500 academic scholarship

Students must submit proof of enrollment or receipts for educational expenses for the summer/fall semester of the same year they graduate from the program. The Bank can issue the scholarship check directly to the college or student. Please note that these funds are to be used for your direct educational expenses- tuition, fees, books, supplies, equipment and other expenses associated with your courses of instruction. Under the Tax Reform Act of 1986, scholarship funds used for anything other than the above expenses may constitute taxable income to you.

The dress code is casual attire.  The temperature of the room can vary so we recommend layering in case the room is too hot or cold.