Student parents, defined as students enrolled in a degree or certificate program who provide more than half of the financial support for a dependent child, represent one of the most vulnerable populations in higher education. They face compounded challenges including childcare costs, housing instability, and financial strain, which contribute to disproportionately low persistence and degree completion rates. While their heightened financial needs are well documented, little research has explored their levels of financial literacy or their use of financial and academic support resources. This study seeks to examine the financial literacy, challenges, and resource utilization of student parents at a four-year Hispanic-Serving Institution on the West Coast. A survey will be administered to expecting parents and student parents with at least one dependent child. The survey includes demographic questions, measures of financial literacy using the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s Financial Well-Being Scale, and open-ended questions on financial and academic support needs. The study is expected to reveal student parents’ financial literacy and the gap between what resources student parents need and what resources are available. Findings will inform the development of tailored financial literacy and academic support programs designed to improve financial stability and educational persistence of student parents.

Accepted Poster Presentation