FINANCIAL MATURITY OF GRADUATE SCHOOL STUDENTS IN LAGUNA: BASIS FOR FINANCIAL MITIGATION PLAN

This study examined the financial maturity of graduate students in Laguna, Philippines, as a basis for a financial mitigation plan, recognizing its importance in navigating economic challenges through informed decision-making and responsible resource management. Using a quantitative descriptive method, surveys were conducted among 103 graduate students from six private institutions to assess the influence of demographic factors—age, gender, marital status, and income—on financial behaviors related to saving, spending, budgeting, credit, and investing. Findings revealed high financial maturity in saving and credit management but identified gaps in structured budgeting and long-term planning, with age significantly influencing financial maturity while gender, marital status, and income showed no substantial correlation. While respondents exhibited commendable financial discipline, the study recommended targeted interventions, proposing a financial mitigation plan with workshops, coaching, and tailored strategies to enhance financial behaviors and resilience. This research contributes to understanding financial maturity in the local context, offering insights for educators, policymakers, and financial advisors, and emphasizing the need for programs that equip graduate students with practical tools to manage the financial pressures of education and work effectively.