11 Best + Free Budgeting Courses [2024 April] [UPDATED] (2024)

In an era where financial literacy is becoming a necessity rather than a choice, acquiring skills in budgeting stands as a critical pillar in achieving financial stability and prosperity. Understanding how to allocate resources wisely, save for future needs, and prevent debt accumulation are just a few of the benefits that come with mastering the art of budgeting.

To cater to the growing demand for quality education in this sphere, DigitalDefynd has carefully curated a selection of the best budgeting courses available online. Our collection encapsulates a spectrum of courses that cater to individuals at various stages of their financial journey. Whether you are a beginner seeking to grasp the basics or a professional looking to hone your skills further, our compilation offers something for everyone.

These courses, designed by financial experts and seasoned educators, delve deep into the nuances of budgeting. From understanding different budgeting techniques to utilizing modern tools and software that simplify the process, these courses provide a holistic view of the subject. They aim to equip you with practical skills that can be immediately implemented in your daily life, fostering a financially secure future. You may like to check our compilation of Best Investment Courses.

Free Course Trial – Budgeting essentials and development by Fundação Instituto de Administração (Coursera)

The budgeting essentials and development course covers topics like budget planning, control, and monitoring. Learn about the transition between planning and controlling and managerial responsibilities. Know how to structure and forecast revenue. Learn about budget controls, measuring financial performance, and creating financial reports. Students can enroll in the program for free. They can opt to receive a certificate by paying an additional fee. The modules are for intermediate-level learners. They can choose to receive financial aid if they are unable to afford the program fee.

Highlights –

-The program deadlines are flexible and can be reset according to the learners’ convenience.

-Practice exercises and study lists help students understand the concepts in the course better.

-Quizzes and assignments help learners test their knowledge of the modules.

-Understand management information systems, outsourcing, and leasing.

-Discussion forums enable students to learn from their peers.

-Students can create study notes within the program modules.

Duration: Approximately 26 hours (Self-Paced)

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

You can Sign up Here

Financial Planning & Analysis: Building a Company’s Budget (Udemy)

The Financial Planning & Analysis course covers topics like preparing budgets, forecasting sales and production, and building financial models. Understand cost planning techniques and learn from extensive case studies on financial topics. The program includes a 30-Day-Money-Back-Guarantee for students who are unsatisfied with the course content. Learners do not require any pre-existing knowledge before opting for the course. Access to Microsoft Excel (2010, 2013, or 2016) is required. Do have a look at our take on Best Wealth Management Courses.

Highlights –

-Extensive support and course challenges help learners benefit from the program.

-Students have lifetime access to the study material in the modules.

-Learn through a combination of videos, real business examples, and quizzes.

-The program is compatible with both a mobile phone and a television screen.

-Learners will receive a certificate after completing the program.

Duration: 1.5 hours of video, 21 resources (Self-Paced)

Rating: 4.3 out of 5

You can Sign up Here

Review: The course has helped me learn how to prepare my company budget. The detailed explanation and formulas are very helpful. -Rakesh Akuthota.

Budgeting for Business (Udemy)

The Budgeting for Business program includes knowing the benefits of budgeting, budgeting processes, and budget templates. Understand how to create an income statement and a balance sheet. Learn about the ethical issues related to budgeting. Understand the importance of the first draft and the polished budget. Know how you can use flexible budgets to assess organizational performance. The program includes a 30-Day-Money-Back-Guarantee for students who are unsatisfied with the course content. Students need to have basic math skills before opting for the program. They do not require any pre-existing knowledge of accounting concepts.

Highlights-

-Learners will receive a certificate after completing the program.

-The course is compatible with both a mobile phone and a television screen.

-Students have lifetime access to the study material in the modules.

Duration: 2.5 hours of video, 4 resources (Self-Paced)

Rating: 4.2 out of 5

You can Sign up Here

Related: Finance Jobs Free from AI and Automation

Free Course Trial – Personal and Family Financial Planning Course by University of Florida (Coursera)

The Personal and Family Financial Planning program will help learners know concepts like time value of money and financial security. Learn about cash flows, creating and reviewing financial statements, and income taxes. Understand how to maintain a good credit score and manage your debts. Know about risk managing and the rules of investing. Understand how to create a personal investment plan. Students can opt to receive financial aid if they are unable to afford the program fee.

Highlights-

-The program deadlines are flexible, and learners can reset them according to their convenience.

-Students will receive a certificate after completing the course.

-Discussion forums enable learners to understand concepts by discussing them with others.

-Learn through practice exercises, quizzes, reading material, and assignments.

Duration: Approximately 15 hours (Self-Paced)

Rating: 4.6 out of 5

You can Sign up Here

Budgeting for the Public and Non-Profit Sector (Udemy)

The budgeting course will help students know how to monitor budgets using techniques like variance analysis. Learn about budgeting in a non-profit environment and know how to create financial reports. Understand the differences between budgets like revenue and capital budgets. Students do not require any pre-existing knowledge before opting for the course. People with the responsibility to manage a budget must take the program. The program includes a 30-Day-Money-Back-Guarantee for students who are unsatisfied with the course content. Don’t forget to check our curation of Best Risk Management Courses.

Highlights-

-Learners will receive a certificate after completing the program.

-Know the terminology of budget management.

-The course is compatible with both a mobile phone and a television screen.

-Students have lifetime access to the study material in the modules.

Duration: 2 hours of video, 22 resources (Self-Paced)

Rating: 4.3 out of 5

You can Sign up Here

Review: Excellent. I gained so much knowledge. -Sonja Celliers.

Basics of Finance and Budgeting (Udemy)

The Basics of Finance and Budgeting course will teach students concepts like forecasting and types of budgets. Know how to make smart purchasing decisions, learn about financial acts and regulations, and the key players in the financial arena. Learn to analyze financial statements and understand profitability ratios. Understand basic terminologies like the difference between finance and accounting. The program includes a 30-Day-Money-Back-Guarantee for students who are not satisfied with the course content. Working knowledge of business operations is necessary before opting for the program.

Highlights-

-Students will receive a certificate after completing the program.

-Learners have lifetime access to the study material in the modules.

-The program is compatible with both a mobile phone and a television screen.

-Students can preview some video lectures before opting for the course.

Duration: 3.5 hours of video, 2 resources (Self-Paced)

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

You can Sign up Here

Review: I am enjoying this course. Looking forward to my next one. -Penny S Harman.

Related: Reasons Why Finance Managers Get Fired

How to Budget and Forecast for Your Business (Udemy)

The budgeting and forecasting course will help you learn about forecasting and expenses. Know about the costs associated with a startup business. Learn about cash flows, calculation of taxes, and payrolls. Know how your legal setup determines the tax that you need to pay. Understand how expenses and assets are treated differently with respect to taxation. Know the difference between profits and cash. The program includes a 30-Day-Money-Back-Guarantee for students who are unsatisfied with the course content.

Highlights-

-Students have lifetime access to the study material in the modules.

-The program is compatible with both a mobile phone and a television screen.

-Learners will receive a certificate after completing the course.

-Discussion forums help students discuss concepts in the modules with their peers.

-Students can preview some video lectures before opting for the program of their choice.

Duration: 2 hours of video, 13 resources (Self-Paced)

Rating: 4.2 out of 5

You can Sign up Here

Free Course Trial – Budgeting and Scheduling Projects by University of California (Coursera)

The Budgeting and Scheduling Process course will teach you to create budgets according to time and cost constraints. Know how to identify resource needs and use a responsibility assignment matrix to assign responsibilities. Understand estimating techniques that you can use to determine your budget. Know how to create a milestone schedule and work on quality management. Students can opt to receive financial aid if they are unable to afford the program fee. Have a look at our list of Best Finance Planning Courses.

Highlights-

-The course deadlines are flexible and can be changed according to learners’ convenience.

-Students can create study notes within the modules.

-Learn through a combination of videos, quizzes, and assignments.

-Discussion forums enable students to discuss concepts in the program with their peers.

-Learners will receive a certificate after completing the course.

Duration: Approximately 6 hours (Self-Paced)

Rating: 4.7 out of 5

You can Sign up Here

Online Budgeting Classes (Skillshare)

The budgeting programs on skill share include courses like saving money, achieving financial independence, and budgeting for the non-profit sector. Understand how to live a debt-free life, charge clients, and calculate net worth. The programs are divided into categories like beginner, intermediate, and advanced. The courses are free for seven days. Learners can opt for paid subscription plans after the initial trial period.

Highlights-

-Students can preview some videos before deciding to opt for a program.

-Discussion forums enable students to discuss concepts in the program with others.

-Self-assessment quizzes help students benefit from the programs.

-Students can create study notes within the modules.

Duration: Self-Paced

Rating: 4.4 out of 5

You can Sign up Here

Review: Good class. The instructor walks you through building a NW statement and a budget in a clear and actionable manner.

Related: How Companies are Using Data Analytics in Finance

Budgeting Course (Ally Budget Wise)

The Ally Budget Wise course will help students learn how to keep track of their finances. Know how to assess your financial situation and distinguish between needs and wants. Understand how to prepare a budget and save money. The course is open to both residents of the United States and international students.

Highlights-

-Learn through examples and know how to combat financial stress.

Duration: Not Specified

Rating: 4.3 out of 5

You can Sign up Here

Creating a Budget 101 Course (credit.org)

The budgeting course includes concepts like budgeting basics, tracking spending, and calculating income. Know how to set financial goals and distinguish between wants and needs. Do have a look at our take on Best Quantitative Finance Courses.

Highlights-

-Quizzes help learners test their knowledge of the concepts in the course.

-Resources like budget tracking worksheets help learners understand the program better.

Duration: Self-Paced

Rating: 4.3 out of 5

You can Sign up Here

Enroll in the above budgeting courses to better manage your finances. We hope you discovered a program that meets your requirements. The program will help you enhance your knowledge and secure your future.

11 Best + Free Budgeting Courses [2024 April] [UPDATED] (2024)

FAQs

11 Best + Free Budgeting Courses [2024 April] [UPDATED]? ›

The best certifications for a budget analyst are Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Certified Management Accountant (CMA), and Project Management Professional (PMP).

What certification is required for budgeting? ›

The best certifications for a budget analyst are Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Certified Management Accountant (CMA), and Project Management Professional (PMP).

How can I learn about finance and investing? ›

Listening to podcasts and reading books about specific areas of finance that interest you help break down more complex financial topics and speed up the learning process. There are also many paid and free courses out there that offer courses in different areas of finance and investing.

What do you mean by finance for everyone? ›

Finance for Everyone: Decisions will introduce you to the workings of the free markets and the foundations of finance. You will learn how free markets and their “creative destruction” provide the architecture for the global economy and how those same markets move money in ways that create and destroy wealth.

Can you be a budget analyst without a degree? ›

Budget analysts typically need at least a bachelor's degree in fields such as business, social science, psychology, or mathematics. Because developing a budget requires numeracy and analytical skills, coursework in accounting, economics, and statistics is helpful.

What is the most in demand certification? ›

10 types of in-demand certifications and their careers
  1. Project management certifications. ...
  2. Business analyst certifications. ...
  3. Supply chain certifications. ...
  4. Marketing certifications. ...
  5. Skilled trade certifications. ...
  6. Human resources certifications. ...
  7. Sales certifications. ...
  8. Accounting certifications.
Mar 15, 2024

How to learn budgeting skills? ›

Here are five steps to learn how to make a budget plan:
  1. Establish your savings goals. Determine which of your life goals require money and how much you realistically need to meet them. ...
  2. Track your expenses. ...
  3. Record your monthly income. ...
  4. Assess your spending. ...
  5. Create a budget.
May 12, 2023

What is the best website to learn about finance? ›

10 Best Finance Online Courses
  • Coursera. ...
  • Coursera. ...
  • Coursera. Essentials of Corporate Finance Specialization.
  • edX. ColumbiaX's Corporate Finance.
  • edX. Finance for Everyone.
  • edX. Finance Essentials.
  • Udemy. The Complete Financial Analyst Course 2021.
  • Udemy. Introduction to Finance, Accounting, Modeling, and Valuation.
Apr 27, 2023

Is there a free budgeting app? ›

Wally took a spot on our list for giving users the opportunity to create a free budget and have access to progress trackers as they work toward hitting their financial goals. Users can also sync their accounts with other members of their households to give everyone an overview of their spending habits and goals.

What is the best budget for beginners? ›

While there are many different budgeting philosophies, the 50/30/20 rule is popular because of its practicality, flexibility, and effectiveness. According to this rule, budgeting is divvied up like so: 50% of your income goes toward needs. 30% of your income goes toward wants.

What is the 50 30 20 rule? ›

Those will become part of your budget. The 50-30-20 rule recommends putting 50% of your money toward needs, 30% toward wants, and 20% toward savings. The savings category also includes money you will need to realize your future goals.

What does financially free me? ›

What Is Financial Freedom? Financial freedom means you get to make life decisions without being overly stressed about the financial fallout of those decisions. That's because you're financially prepared for whatever life throws your way—you have no debt, you have money in the bank, and you're investing for the future.

Does everyone in finance make a lot of money? ›

Salaries in the finance industry

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statics (BLS), careers in finance pay a median salary of $76,850 — 66% higher than the median salary for all occupations in the nation ($46,310).

What is financial wherewithal? ›

: the money, skill, etc., that is needed to get or do something. A project as big as this requires a lot of financial wherewithal.

What certifications are required for budget analyst? ›

Attain Certifications

Aspiring budget analysts who are interested in pursuing advanced government positions will likely need additional certification beyond a bachelor's degree. The Certified Government Financial Manager (CGFM) credential, offered by the Association of Government Accountants (AGA), is often required.

What is budget certification? ›

The Certificate in Government Budgeting is a post-bachelor's program that equips working professionals who desire to deepen their expertise in financial management in nonprofit and government organizations.

Which certification is best for budget analysts? ›

The best certifications for a senior budget analyst are Certified Government Financial Manager (CGFM), Certified Management Accountant (CMA), and Program Management Professional (PgMP). Below is a list of the best senior budget analyst certifications.

Which certification is best for finance? ›

Which Finance Certifications Course Is The Best?
  • Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) certification.
  • Certified Public Accountant (CPA) certification.
  • Financial Modeling & Valuation Analyst (FMVA) certification.
  • Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst (CAIA) designation.
  • Certified Financial Planner (CFP) designation.

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