NebraskaLand University Is Back for Its 13th Year

Thirteen years ago, NebraskaLand Bank set out to do something a little different. Rather than waiting for young adults to walk through the door already struggling with debt or confused by credit scores, NebraskaLand Bank brought financial education directly to high school seniors before the hard lessons hit. The result was NebraskaLand University, a free, six-course financial literacy scholarship program that has since awarded more than $124,250 in scholarships to over 400 students across North Platte and the surrounding areas.

Now, the 2026–27 class is officially on the horizon. Applications open August 1, 2026, and close September 8, 2026. Class size is extremely limited, so if you’re a high school senior or the parent of one this blog has everything you need to know.

What is NebraskaLand University's financial literacy program for high school seniors?

NebraskaLand University is a free, six-course financial literacy scholarship program designed specifically for high school seniors in North Platte and surrounding areas. Each course is taught by senior and executive officers from NebraskaLand Bank. These aren’t generic online modules; they’re real-world lessons delivered by professionals who work in finance every day.

The program runs from October through April (excluding January), with one session per month. Each session lasts approximately 75 minutes, held on the first Monday of the month from 7:00 PM to 8:15 PM. Students who complete all graduation requirements earn at least a $250 academic scholarship and the opportunity to earn more through an essay contest.

Since its launch during the 2014-15 school year, NebraskaLand University has become one of the most meaningful community initiatives NebraskaLand Bank offers.

What courses does NebraskaLand University cover?

The six-course curriculum is built to give students a complete picture of personal finance covering topics that shape how money works in everyday life.

 Intro to NLU & Careers in Banking

Students get a behind-the-scenes look at NebraskaLand Bank operations through an exclusive bank tour, explore careers in banking and finance, and learn what to expect throughout the program.

 Strategies to Pay for College

Rather than leaving students to figure out student loans on their own, this course lays out practical strategies for funding a college education covering the difference between federal loans, private loans, and other financial aid options.

 Budgeting & Banking Essentials

Students will learn how to create and manage a budget, build healthy savings habits, and understand the real-world financial responsibilities that come with adulthood. In addition to budgeting, students will learn banking essentials, helping them develop the financial knowledge and confidence needed to make informed decisions for their future.

 Credit & Loans

This course breaks down the difference between good credit and bad credit, explains how to obtain and manage credit responsibly, and covers the basics of borrowing, including college loans and best repayment practices. This is exactly the kind of foundational knowledge NebraskaLand Bank officers apply every day when helping customers make smart borrowing decisions.

 Identity Theft & Cybersecurity

With fraud and scams growing more sophisticated every year, this course teaches students how to protect their identity, recognize warning signs, and avoid becoming a victim.

 Economy 101 & Building Wealth

Students explore economic fundamentals, discuss current events and how they affect finances, and dive into The Millionaire Next Door a book exploring what it really takes to build lasting wealth.

What scholarships can students earn through NebraskaLand University?

Every student who meets all graduation requirements earns a scholarship for their hard work. Graduates who complete the program but do not place in the essay contest receive a $250 Scholarship. Essay contest winners receive the scholarship amount associated with their placement, as outlined below.

• Essay Contest – 1st Place: $1,000
• Essay Contest – 2nd Place: $750
• Essay Contest – 3rd Place: $500

Essays are judged by a NebraskaLand Bank committee, and the top three winners are recognized at the graduation ceremony alongside their peers.

The most recent graduating class of 52 students received a combined $14,500 in scholarships. Across all 12 completed classes, NebraskaLand University has awarded more than $124,250 in scholarships to students heading into their next chapter.

Who is eligible for NebraskaLand University, and how does the selection process work?

To be considered for the 2026–27 class, applicants must:

• Be a high school senior during the 2026–27 academic year
• Attend school and reside in North Platte or a surrounding area
• Commit to full participation, including all six sessions and any required makeup sessions
• Demonstrate a sincere desire to learn the principles of personal finance

A NebraskaLand Bank committee reviews all applications and selects students based on their letter of recommendation, resume, and application responses. Answers should reflect genuine motivation and personal commitment, not just academic achievement.

The application also requires a parent or guardian signature, which speaks to the program’s emphasis on community and family involvement in building financial awareness from an early age.

How do I apply for NebraskaLand University's 2026–27 class?

Applications open August 1, 2026, and close Monday, September 8, 2026. Given that class size is limited, early submission is strongly encouraged.

Beginning August 1, 2026, follow these steps to apply:

1. Visit NebraskaLandUniversity.com and select “Apply Here”
2. Complete the full application, including personal responses, a parent or guardian signature, a letter of recommendation, and a resume
3. Submit by September 8; late applications will not be considered

For questions, reach out directly to the NebraskaLand Bank Marketing team at NLUniversity@nlnb.com or call 308.534.2100.

Why does financial literacy matter before high school graduation?

Most students graduate without ever learning how to read a credit report, create a budget, or evaluate a loan offer. Those gaps don’t stay invisible for long. Within months of graduation, whether heading to college, trade school, or their job young adults face financial decisions that can follow them for years.

NebraskaLand University bridges that gap. The program equips students with practical, applicable knowledge at exactly the right time, taught by banking professionals who work with these financial concepts daily. NebraskaLand Bank’s commitment to the community goes well beyond deposits and loans, it’s about giving the next generation the tools to make confident financial decisions for life.

As one NebraskaLand University 2022 graduate put it: “If you truly apply yourself to this program, you are applying for more than just scholarship money. You are applying for life lessons, new friendships, a support system, and a business partnership. The people here are ready to invest themselves in you and help you succeed.”

Don't Miss Your Spot in the Class of 2027

The 2026–27 class of NebraskaLand University marks thirteen years of NebraskaLand Bank investing in the financial futures of local students. Spots are limited. The deadline is firm. And the skills students walk away with—how to budget, how to borrow wisely, how to build credit, how to protect their identity—are ones that pay dividends for a lifetime.

Applications open August 1, 2026. Apply before September 8 at NebraskaLandUniversity.com.