As the new school year kicks off, more states are mandating financial education for high schoolers, a move that could reshape how young adults handle money and interact with creditors, according to a report from the National Endowment for Financial Education.
Why it matters: For professionals in collections, credit, and finance, widespread financial literacy means consumers who better understand budgeting, debt, and credit scores. This could lead to fewer delinquencies, smoother conversations on sensitive financial issues, and stronger long-term economic health.
The big picture: Momentum for K-12 financial education continues to build. In 2025, four states passed full graduation requirements, bringing the total to 29. That’s up from just six in 2019 and a stark contrast to 2017, when only 9% of high schoolers received such education.
- Kentucky, Colorado, and Texas signed laws this year, with Delaware’s bill awaiting the governor’s signature.
- Once implemented, these requirements will cover 73% of U.S. high school students by 2031, including 1.7 million in Texas alone.
- Bipartisan support and student advocacy drove the wins, from Kentucky’s teen-led push to Colorado’s coalition of banks, credit unions, and schools.
By the numbers: A Morning Consult survey for the American Bankers Association Foundation shows strong public backing.
- 87% agree financial concepts should be taught in high school.
- 72% say they’d be better off if they’d learned personal finance earlier.
NEFE’s report highlights 25 bills introduced in 13 states this session, with 19 still pending in places like New York and Washington.
State spotlights:
- Kentucky: Requires a full credit course for ninth graders starting July 2025, with standards from the Board of Education and support from the Financial Empowerment Commission.
- Colorado: Mandates a course anytime in high school, plus FAFSA exposure; includes $210,000 in funding for districts.
- Texas: Adds a half-credit in personal finance for 2026-2027 ninth graders, building on prior partial requirements.
Challenges ahead:
