1. Stop Your Student Finance ❌

Unregister, request your diploma, and stop your student finance via MijnDUO. This is also where you can check the total student debt you accrued. Note that DUO converts your travel costs, basic grant, and any supplementary grant into a gift later.

Take some time to understand how and when you need to start repaying your student debt and the monthly amounts involved.

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2. Cancel Your Student Public Transport Card (OV) 🚃

As a graduate, you are no longer eligible for free public transport. Cancel your student travel product at an OV chip card machine by the 10th of the month in which your entitlement ends. Failing to cancel could result in fines:

• First month: € 81,40 per half-month.
• Subsequent months: € 162,82 per half-month.

Fortunately, during the first year after graduation, you can still get a discount on train travel. With the NS Dal Voordeelabonnement, you receive 40% off during off-peak hours, weekends, and holidays. Be sure to order it within six months after your student travel product expires.

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3. Check Your Living Situation 🏡

If you have a campus contract, you may only be allowed to stay in your student housing for a limited time after graduation. Check your lease terms to avoid unexpected eviction notices, and start searching for a new place if needed.

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4. Review Your Insurance Policies 🧐

As a non-student, it is time to review your health and other insurance policies. If you are on a student plan or covered under your parents’ insurance, you will need to switch to a regular policy. You may also need additional insurance, such as disability insurance (if freelancing) or household insurance when living independently.

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5. Taxes and Allowances 🤑

With your income increasing, you might no longer qualify for allowances like healthcare or housing benefits. Make sure to check this in time to avoid having to repay any money later. Benefits are paid in advance, and if you received too much, you have to pay this back—which can be a significant financial setback if it is unexpected.

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6. Employment Terms and Contract 🤓

Your first full-time job comes with a new employment contract. Read it carefully to understand your terms of employment, including salary, vacation days, overtime, travel reimbursements, and bonuses. Also, familiarize yourself with policies regarding sick leave or dismissal, and ask your employer for clarification if needed.

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7. Start Saving and Building a Pension 💰

The start of your professional life is a great time to think about your financial future. With a stable income, it is wise to start saving. This could be for an emergency fund, or for long-term goals, such as buying a house. Additionally, you may start building a pension through your employer. It is important to look into that and consider building your own pension savings as well.

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Manage Your Finances with Grassfeld

As your income increases, it is tempting to spend more. Keeping track of your expenses and setting budgets can help maintain control and achieve your savings goals.

Grassfeld helps you manage your finances. In this free app, your expenses are automatically categorized. You can also set savings goals, track your progress, and create budgets to ensure your spending stays within your income. Download Grassfeld now from your app store and experience the benefits!