A Grad's Guide to the Real World

Congratulations graduates, commencement season has arrived. But what do you know about handling your finances now that you're on your own?

Relax, we're here for you. We've gathered dozens of your most pressing questions and answered them in language you can understand -- even if you aren't a finance major. Because in the real world, there is no extra credit to make up for your mistakes.

If you're not a graduate, but you happen to be a concerned -- er, well-wishing -- parent, our manual can give you the tools you need to guide your grad in the right financial direction.

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Although your formal education may be coming to an end, a whole new learning experience is about to begin. Behold our guides to everything you wish you had learned in school ... but didn't:

SPENDING & SAVING

Do you really need a budget? How can you start building credit? Is it possible to make a million bucks without lifting a finger? Our Guide to Spending & Saving outlines the basics of money management when you're just starting out.

STARTING YOUR CAREER

How can you nail a job interview? How can you dress to impress on a tight budget? Should you go to grad school? Our Guide to Starting You Career tells you what you need to know about getting a job and building a career.

DECODING YOUR BENEFITS

What's the difference between an HMO and PPO? Should you invest in a 401(k)? What the heck is a mutual fund anyway? Find answers to your questions on making the most of your health insurance and job-related benefits in our Guide to Decoding Your Benefits.

FINDING HOUSING

How can you find cheap -- or even free -- housing? What's the secret to finding a good roommate? How can you furnish your place cheaply but chicly? Our Guide to Finding Housing addresses your questions about making the most your new place.

GETTING AROUND

What is the least expensive car to own? How can you save money on car insurance? How can you get the best gas mileage? We tackle your questions about getting from one place to another in our Guide to Getting Around.

HAVING SOME FUN

What's the best way to book cheap travel? How can you snag discount tickets to concerts, plays and other events? Should you go into debt to buy an engagement ring? Money doesn't have to be boring. Our Guide to Having Some Fun helps you make smart decisions when love, travel and entertainment are on your mind.