Schoolsoup.com » Financial Aid » Florida Financial Aid Information

STATE OF FLORIDA FINANCIAL AID PROGRAMS

  For more detailed information on state financial aid programs contact:

OFFICE OF STUDENT FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
1940 N. Monroe Street, Suite 70
Tallahassee, Florida 32303-4759
Tel: (850)410-5200
Florida Grant/Scholarship Toll Free Student Hotline 1-888-827-2004
https://www.floridastudentfinancialaid.org/

The following are financial aid programs available to students who are residents of the state of Florida.

2007-08 Access to Better Learning and Education Grant Program

Program Description

The Access to Better Learning and Education (ABLE) Grant Program provides tuition assistance to Florida undergraduate students enrolled in degree programs at eligible private Florida colleges or universities. ABLE is a decentralized state of Florida program, which means that each participating institution determines application procedures, deadlines, and student eligibility.

What are the Initial Eligibility Requirements to Receive Funding?

The student will:

Be a Florida resident and a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen. A student’s residency and citizenship status are determined by the postsecondary institution. Questions regarding such status should be directed to the financial aid office or admissions office of the institution the student plans to attend.

Not owe a repayment or be in default under any state or federal grant, loan, or scholarship program unless satisfactory arrangements to repay have been made.

Not have previously received a baccalaureate degree.

Enroll for a minimum of 12 credit hours per term at an eligible Florida college or university in a baccalaureate degree program.

Meet Florida’s general eligibility requirements for receipt of state aid.

Not be enrolled in a program of study leading to a degree in theology or divinity.

How Does a Student Apply?

The student will meet the application procedures established by the participating institution. Applications may be obtained at the financial aid offices of eligible Florida colleges and universities.

How Does a Student Renew?

A renewal applicant must have earned a minimum institutional cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale and earned the equivalent of 12 credit hours for each term an award was received during the academic year.

Eligibility is determined at the end of the second semester or third quarter of each academic year. Credit hours earned during the previous summer can be counted toward the total number of credit hours required.

A student should consult his/her postsecondary institution for renewal requirements established by the institution.

What if a Student Does Not Meet the Minimum GPA Required for Renewal?

A student who earns the minimum number of credits required for renewal, but fails to meet the minimum 2.0 institutional cumulative GPA may be granted a probationary award for two semesters or three quarters.

To be eligible for renewal the following year after probation, the student must have earned the required credits and institutional cumulative GPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale.

What if a Student Does Not Meet the Minimum Credit Hours Required for Renewal?

• A student who does not meet the annual minimum 12 hour per semester (for one or both semesters) requirement for renewal, may not receive funding the following academic year.
• To be eligible for funding in a subsequent year, the student must apply for restoration and meet the general eligibility requirements for restoration and have earned an institutional cumulative GPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale.

 

How Does a Student Restore?

• A student may be eligible for restoration if he/she has earned an institutional GPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale at the end of the second semester or third quarter of the academic year for which he/she was ineligible.
• The student may apply for restoration with the postsecondary institution after two semesters or three quarters at the end of the spring term.

 

How Does a Student Reinstate?

A student who met the requirements for a renewal award, but did not receive an award during a full year of eligibility and wishes to reestablish use of the grant, may apply for reinstatement with the postsecondary institution in a subsequent year provided the student has earned an institutional cumulative GPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale as of the end of the second semester or third quarter of the academic year preceding the year the award is sought.

What is the Award Process?

• The postsecondary institution will determine applicant eligibility.
• The award amount is specified by the Florida Legislature each year in the General Appropriations Act.
• The amount of the ABLE award plus all other scholarships and grants specifically designated for payment of tuition and fees cannot exceed the total amount of tuition and fees charged by the institution. The college or university will adjust the amount of the ABLE award to conform to this maximum.

 How are Awards Disbursed?

The Office of Student Financial Assistance (OSFA) forwards award funding to participating postsecondary institutions. Each postsecondary institution distributes awards to eligible students.

How Long May a Student Receive Funding?

• A student is eligible to receive an award for a maximum of 9 semesters (14 quarters). Undergraduate students participating in college-preparatory instruction, students requiring additional time to complete the college-level communication and computation skills testing programs (CLAST), or students enrolled in a 5-year undergraduate degree program are eligible to receive financial aid for a maximum of 10 semesters or 15 quarters.
• Unused hours may not be used for further course funding after a student earns a baccalaureate degree.

How May a Student Appeal?

An applicant who believes financial aid has been wrongly denied has certain rights to appeal.

If aid is denied for failure to meet satisfactory academic progress requirements, an applicant may appeal the denial to the institution by providing proof of illness or other emergency beyond the applicant's control. An institutional academic progress appeal is to be filed in writing within 30 days of the denial letter or by the date established by the institution's financial aid office, whichever is later.

How Does a Student Make Changes in Information?

An applicant must notify OSFA of any change in name, address, or institution attended. A student may update information in the following ways:

• By accessing and updating the student record on the OSFA website at www.FloridaStudentFinancialAid.org, using the assigned User ID and PIN:
• Select State Grants, Scholarships & Applications,
• select Application Status & Award History,
• select Initial Student Update, and then the appropriate option.
• By calling OSFA toll-free at 1-888-827-2004.
  
  Transferring from one institution to another could affect an applicant’s award.

Use of an Applicant’s Social Security Number/Non-discrimination Statement

The Privacy Act of 1974 requires state agencies to inform applicants of the reasons for requesting their Social Security numbers (SSN). The Florida Department of Education (FDOE) requests an SSN on all applications for student financial assistance in order to correctly identify applicants, match each applicant's financial aid record with the student record at the postsecondary institution the applicant attends, and help coordinate state student aid programs with federal student aid programs.

An applicant will not be denied financial assistance for failure to disclose the SSN. Without an SSN, correct identification of an applicant's record cannot be assured and may result in an error or a delay in the disbursement of an award.

Pursuant to Section 1001.05, Florida Statutes, state student financial assistance is provided to eligible applicants without discriminating on the basis of ethnicity, gender, national origin, marital status, or handicap. Minority status will be considered when required by law as a condition of eligibility or selection.

For further information

contact the financial aid office at eligible postsecondary institutions or OSFA, Suite 70, 1940 North Monroe Street, Tallahassee, Florida 32303-4759. Contact OSFA toll-free at 1-888-827-2004.

 

2007-08 Ethics in Business Scholarship Program

Program Description

The Ethics in Business Scholarship Program administered by the Office of Student Financial Assistance provides assistance to undergraduate college students who enroll at community colleges and eligible independent postsecondary educational institutions.  Scholarships are funded by private and state contributions. Awards are dependent on private matching funds.

Florida Statute 1009.76 governs the Ethics in Business Scholarship Program for state universities and is administered by the Board of Governors.  A comprehensive listing of all eligible institutions for both scholarship programs may be found at the link provided below.

What are the Initial Eligibility Requirements to Receive Funding?

The student will:

• Be enrolled at a community college or an eligible private Florida college or university.
• Contact the financial aid office or the foundation office at the participating institution for complete program information.

Use of an Applicant’s Social Security Number/Non-discrimination Statement

The Privacy Act of 1974 requires state agencies to inform applicants of the reasons for requesting their Social Security numbers (SSN). The Florida Department of Education requests an SSN on all applications for student financial assistance in order to correctly identify applicants, match each applicant's financial aid record with the student record at the postsecondary institution the applicant attends, and help coordinate state student aid programs with federal student aid programs.

An applicant will not be denied financial assistance for failure to disclose the SSN. Without an SSN, correct identification of an applicant's record cannot be assured and may result in an error in the award amount or a delay in the disbursement of an award.

Pursuant to Section 1000.05, Florida Statutes, state student financial assistance is provided to eligible applicants without discriminating on the basis of race, sex, national origin, marital status, or handicap. Minority status will be considered when required by law as a condition of eligibility or selection.

For further informationcontact the financial aid office at eligible postsecondary institutions or the Office of Student Financial Assistance (OSFA), State Programs, Suite 70, 1940 North Monroe Street, Tallahassee, Florida 32303-4759. Contact OSFA toll-free at 1-888-827-2004.

2007-08 First Generation Matching Grant Program

Program Description

The First Generation Matching Grant Program (FGMG) is a need-based grant program available to degree-seeking, resident, undergraduate students who demonstrate substantial financial need, are enrolled in participating postsecondary institutions, and whose parents have not earned baccalaureate or higher degrees.  Available state funds are contingent upon matching contributions from private sources on a one to one dollar basis.  FGMG is a state of Florida decentralized program, which means that each participating institution determines application procedures, deadlines, and student eligibility.

What are the Initial Eligibility Requirements to Receive Funding?

The student will:

• Be a Florida resident and a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen.  A student’s residency and citizenship status are determined by the postsecondary institution.  Questions regarding such status should be directed to the financial aid office or admissions office of the institution the student plans to attend.
• Not owe a repayment or be in default under any state or federal grant, loan, or scholarship program unless satisfactory arrangements to repay have been made.
• Not have previously received a baccalaureate degree.
• Be accepted at a Florida state university or community college and enroll in a minimum of 6 credit hours per term as a degree-seeking undergraduate student.
• Meet additional eligibility requirements as established by the postsecondary institution.
• Be a first generation college student.  A student is considered "first generation" if neither of the student's parents earned a college degree at the baccalaureate level or higher.  A student would also be eligible if he/she regularly resided with and received support from only one parent who did not earn a baccalaureate degree.
• Have demonstrated financial need by submitting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

How Does a Student Apply?

• The student will demonstrate financial need by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) in time to be processed error free by the deadline specified by the institution.
• The student will meet the application procedures established by the participating institution.  Applications may be obtained at the financial aid offices of eligible participating institutions.

How Does a Student Renew, Reinstate, or Restore?

A student should consult his/her postsecondary institution for renewal, reinstatement, or restoration requirements established by the institution.

What is the Award Process?

• The postsecondary institution shall rank all eligible applicants on the basis of financial need, determine the award amount for each recipient, and notify each student of his/her award.
• The award amount shall be based on the student's need assessment after any scholarship or grant aid, including, but not limited to, a Pell Grant or a Bright Futures Scholarship, has been applied.  An award may not exceed the institution's estimated annual cost of attendance for the student to attend the institution.

How Are Awards Disbursed? 

The postsecondary institution will disburse awards to eligible students each term.

How Long May a Student Receive Funding?

A student should consult his/her postsecondary institution for program length established by the institution.

How May a Student Appeal?

An applicant who believes financial aid has been wrongly denied has certain rights to appeal.

If aid is denied for failure to meet satisfactory academic progress requirements, an applicant may appeal the denial to the institution by providing proof of illness or other emergency beyond the applicant's control.  An institutional academic progress appeal is to be filed in writing within 30 days of the denial letter or by the date established by the institution's financial aid office, whichever is later.

How Does a Student Make Changes in Information?

An applicant must notify Office of Student Financial Assistance (OSFA) of any change in name, address, or institution attended.  A student may update information in the following ways:

• By accessing and updating the student record on the OSFA website at www.FloridaStudentFinancialAid.org, using the assigned User ID and PIN:
• Select State Grants, Scholarships & Applications,
• select Application Status & Award History,
• select Initial Student Update, and then the appropriate option.
• By calling OSFA toll-free at 1-888-827-2004.

Transferring from one institution to another could affect an applicant’s award.

For further information contact the financial aid office at eligible postsecondary institutions or OSFA, Suite 70, 1940 North Monroe Street, Tallahassee, Florida 32303-4759.  Contact OSFA toll-free at 1-888-827-2004.

2007-08 Florida Bright Futures Scholarship Program

Program Description

The Florida Bright Futures Scholarship Program establishes three lottery-funded scholarships to reward Florida high school graduates for high academic achievement. The Florida Bright Futures Scholarship Program is comprised of the following three awards:
Florida Academic Scholars Award (FAS)
   (including Academic Top Scholars)
Florida Medallion Scholars Award (FMS)
Florida Gold Seal Vocational Scholars Award (GSV)

What are the Initial Eligibility Requirements to Receive Funding?

The student will:

• Be a Florida resident and a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen. A student’s residency and citizenship status are determined by the postsecondary institution. Questions regarding such status should be directed to the financial aid office or admissions office of the institution the student plans to attend.
• Not owe a repayment or be in default under any state or federal grant, loan, or scholarship program unless satisfactory arrangements to repay have been made.
• Meet specific coursework and minimum grade point average (GPA) and test score requirements which are outlined on the Office of Student Financial Assistance (OSFA) website www.floridastudentfinancialaid.org/SSFAD/bf/acadrequire.htm.
• Academic Top Scholars Award – The Florida Academic Scholar with the highest academic ranking in each county will receive a $750 award per semester (award amounts will differ at quarter or clock hour institutions) in addition to the Florida Academic Scholars award, prorated by term and hours and excluding summer term.

How Does a Student Apply?

For Initial Eligibility the student will:

• Submit a fully completed (error free) Initial Student Florida Financial Aid Application during his/her last year in high school (after December 1 and prior to graduation) by accessing www.FloridaStudentFinancialAid.org online (select State Grants, Scholarships & Applications, then Apply Here). The application gives the Florida Department of Education (FDOE) permission to evaluate the student’s high school transcript and standardized test scores for eligibility for a Bright Futures Scholarship and other state scholarships and grants.
• Apply during his/her last year in high school, before graduation, or forfeit all future eligibility for a Bright Futures

Changes to the Florida Bright Futures Scholarship Program, effective January 1, 2008

• Early Admit students will no longer be eligible to apply for Bright Futures prior to their senior year in high school.  Students may apply for an award beginning December 1 of the student’s high school graduation year.
• Early Admit students funded in the 2007-08 academic year will be disbursed Bright Futures funds after January 1, 2008, contingent upon the availability of funds.  OSFA will notify all institutions of such student eligibility in December 2007 for potential Term 2 Early Admit awards.
• For any term beginning as of January 1, 2008, students will receive an educational allowance of $225, reduced from $300, prorated by hours and terms, as specified in the General Appropriations Act (Senate Bill 2C).  Florida Bright Futures Scholarship Program fixed award amounts for private postsecondary institutions, with this allotment reduction, will be calculated and posted to the website in December 2007.
• The Florida Legislature will annually determine the amount of the college-related expense allotment beginning with the 2008-09 academic year.

Florida Public Postsecondary Career Education Student Assistance Grant Program

Program Description

Florida Public Postsecondary Career Education Student Assistance Grant (FSAG-CE) Program is a need-based grant program available to Florida residents enrolled in certificate programs of 450 or more clock hours at participating community colleges or career centers operated by district school boards.

FSAG-CE is a decentralized state of Florida program, which means that each participating institution determines application procedures, deadlines, student eligibility, and award amounts.
 
What Are the Initial Eligibility Requirements to Receive Funding?

The student will:

• Be a Florida resident and a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen.  A student’s residency and citizenship status are determined by the postsecondary institution. Questions regarding such status should be directed to the financial aid office or admissions office of the institution the student plans to attend.
• Not owe a repayment or be in default under any state or federal grant, loan, or scholarship program unless satisfactory arrangements to repay have been made.
• Enroll for a minimum of 180 clock hours per term (or equivalent of 6 semester credits) at an eligible community college or eligible career center.
• Meet Florida’s general eligibility requirements for receipt of state aid.

How Does a Student Apply?

The student will demonstrate financial need by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) in time to be processed error free by the deadline specified by the institution.

How Does a Student Renew?

• A renewal applicant must have earned a minimum institutional cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale and earned at least 180 clock hours (the equivalent of 6 credit hours) for undergraduate half-time study for each term an award was received during the academic year.
• Eligibility is determined at the end of the second semester or third quarter of each academic year.  Clock hours earned during the previous summer can be counted toward the total number of clock hours required.
• A student should consult his/her postsecondary institution for renewal requirements established by the institution.
• Demonstrate financial need by completing an (error free) Free Application for Federal Student Aid each academic year by the deadline specified by the institution.

What if a Student Does Not Meet the Minimum GPA Required for Renewal?

• If a student does not meet the minimum GPA, he/she may be granted a probationary award for two semesters or three quarters.
• To be eligible for renewal the following year after probation, the student must have earned the required clock hours and an institutional cumulative GPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale.

What if a Student Does Not Meet the Minimum Clock Hours Required for Renewal?

• A student who does not meet the annual minimum number of clock hours required for renewal may not receive funding the following academic year.
• To be eligible for funding in a subsequent year, the student must apply for restoration and meet the general eligibility requirements for restoration and have maintained/earned an institutional cumulative GPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale.

How Does a Student Restore?

• A student may be eligible for restoration if he/she has earned an institutional GPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale at the end of the second semester or third quarter of the academic year for which he/she was ineligible.
• A student may apply for restoration with the postsecondary institution after two semesters or three quarters at the end of the spring term.

How Does a Student Reinstate?

A student who met the requirements for a renewal award, but did not receive an award during a full year of eligibility and wishes to reestablish use of the grant, may apply for reinstatement with the postsecondary institution in a subsequent year provided the student has earned an institutional cumulative GPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale as of the end of the second semester or third quarter of the academic year preceding the year the award is sought.

What is the Award Process?

• The postsecondary institution will determine applicant eligibility and award amount.
• The annual minimum and maximum award amount may vary each academic year.  For the 2007-08 academic year the minimum annual award amount is $200 and the maximum annual award amount is $1,808.

How are Awards Disbursed?

OSFA allocates funds to eligible postsecondary institutions.  Each postsecondary institution distributes awards to eligible students.

How Long May a Student Receive Funding?

• A student receiving the FSAG-CE is eligible to receive an award for a maximum of 110% of the number of clock hours required to complete a program in which enrolled.
• Unused hours may not be used for further course funding after a student earns a certificate.

How May a Student Appeal?

An applicant who believes financial aid has been wrongly denied has certain rights to appeal.

If aid is denied for failure to meet satisfactory academic progress requirements, an applicant may appeal the denial to the institution by providing proof of illness or other emergency beyond the applicant's control.  An institutional academic progress appeal is to be filed in writing within 30 days of the denial letter or by the date established by the institution's financial aid office, whichever is later.

How Does a Student Make Changes in Information?

An applicant must notify OSFA of any change in name, address, or institution attended.  A student may update information in the following ways:

• By accessing and updating the student record on the OSFA website at www.FloridaStudentFinancialAid.org, using the assigned User ID and PIN:
• Select State Grants, Scholarships & Applications,
• select Application Status & Award History,
• select Initial Student Update, and then the appropriate option.
• By calling OSFA toll-free at 1-888-827-2004.

Transferring from one institution to another could affect an applicant’s award.

For further information contact the financial aid office at eligible postsecondary institutions or OSFA, State Programs, Suite 70, 1940 North Monroe Street, Tallahassee, Florida 32303-4759.  Contact OSFA toll-free at 1-888-827-2004.

William L. Boyd, IV, Florida Resident Access Grant Program

Program Description

The William L. Boyd, IV, Florida Resident Access Grant (FRAG) Program provides tuition assistance to Florida undergraduate students attending an eligible private, non-profit Florida college or university. FRAG is a decentralized state of Florida program, which means that each participating institution determines application procedures, deadlines, and student eligibility.

What are the Initial Eligibility Requirements to Receive Funding?

The student will:

• Be a Florida resident and a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen. A student’s residency and citizenship status are determined by the postsecondary institution. Questions regarding such status should be directed to the financial aid office or admissions office of the institution the student plans to attend.
• Not owe a repayment or be in default under any state or federal grant, loan, or scholarship program unless satisfactory arrangements to repay have been made.
• Not have previously received a baccalaureate degree.
• Enroll for a minimum of 12 credit hours per term at an eligible Florida college or university in a baccalaureate degree program.
• Meet Florida’s general eligibility requirements for receipt of state aid.
• Not be enrolled in a program of study leading to a degree in theology or divinity.

How Does a Student Apply?

The student will meet the application procedures established by the participating institution. Applications may be obtained at the financial aid offices of eligible Florida colleges and universities.

How Does a Student Renew?

• A renewal applicant must have earned a minimum institutional cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale, and earned the equivalent of 12 credit hours for each term an award was received during the academic year.
• Eligibility is determined at the end of the second semester or third quarter of each academic year. Credit hours earned during the previous summer can be counted toward the total number of credit hours required.
• A student should consult his/her postsecondary institution for renewal requirements established by the institution.

 What if a Student Does Not Meet the Minimum GPA Required for Renewal?

• A student who earns the minimum number of credits required for renewal, but fails to meet the minimum 2.0 institutional cumulative GPA may be granted a probationary award for two semesters or three quarters.
• To be eligible for renewal the following year after probation, the student must have earned the required credits and institutional cumulative GPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale by the end of the probationary period.

 What if a Student Does Not Meet the Minimum Credit Hour Required for Renewal?

• A student who does not meet the annual minimum 12 hour per semester (for one or both semesters) requirement for renewal, may not receive funding the following academic year.
• To be eligible for funding in a subsequent year, the student must apply for restoration and meet the general eligibility requirements for restoration and have earned an institutional cumulative GPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale.

 How Does a Student Restore?

• A student may be eligible for restoration if he/she has earned an institutional GPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale at the end of the second semester or third quarter of the academic year for which he or she was ineligible.
• The student may apply for restoration with the postsecondary institution after two semesters or three quarters at the end of the spring term.

 How Does a Student Reinstate?

A student who met the requirements for a renewal award, but did not receive an award during a full year of eligibility and wishes to reestablish use of the grant, may apply for reinstatement with the postsecondary institution in a subsequent year provided the student has earned an institutional cumulative GPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale as of the end of the second semester or third quarter of the academic year preceding the year the award is sought.

What is the Award Process?

• The postsecondary institution will determine applicant eligibility.
• The award amount is specified by the Florida Legislature each year in the General Appropriations Act.
• The amount of the FRAG award plus all other scholarships and grants specifically designated for payment of tuition and fees cannot exceed the total amount of tuition and fees charged by the institution. The college or university will adjust the amount of the FRAG award to conform to this maximum.

 How are Awards Disbursed?

The Office of Student Financial Assistance (OSFA) forwards award funding to participating postsecondary institutions. Each postsecondary institution distributes awards to eligible students.

How Long May a Student Receive Funding?

• A student is eligible to receive an award for a maximum of 9 semesters or 14 quarters.
• Undergraduate students participating in college-preparatory instruction, students requiring additional time to complete the college-level communication and computation skills testing programs (CLAST), or students enrolled in a 5-year undergraduate degree program are eligible to receive financial aid for a maximum of 10 semesters or 15 quarters.
• Unused hours may not be used for further course funding after a student earns a baccalaureate degree.

 How May a Student Appeal?

An applicant who believes financial aid has been wrongly denied has certain rights to appeal.

If aid is denied for failure to meet satisfactory academic progress requirements, an applicant may appeal the denial to the institution by providing proof of illness or other emergency beyond the applicant's control. An institutional academic progress appeal is to be filed in writing within 30 days of the denial letter or by the date established by the institution's financial aid office, whichever is later.

How Does a Student Make Changes in Information?

An applicant must notify OSFA of any change in name, address, or institution attended. A student may update information in the following ways:

• By accessing and updating the student record on the OSFA website at www.FloridaStudentFinancialAid.org, using the assigned User ID and PIN:
• Select State Grants, Scholarships & Applications,
• select Application Status & Award History,
• select Initial Student Update, and then the appropriate option.
• By calling OSFA toll-free at 1-888-827-2004.

Transferring from one institution to another could affect an applicant’s award.

For further information contact the financial aid office at eligible postsecondary institutions or OSFA, State Programs, Suite 70, 1940 North Monroe Street, Tallahassee, Florida 32303-4759. Contact OSFA toll-free at 1-888-827-2004.

Florida Student Assistance Grant Program

Program Description

The Florida Student Assistance Grant (FSAG) Program is a need-based grant program available to degree-seeking, resident, undergraduate students who demonstrate substantial financial need and are enrolled in participating postsecondary institutions.

• The Florida Public Student Assistance Grant is available to students who attend state universities and public community colleges.
• The Florida Private Student Assistance Grant is available to students who attend eligible private, non-profit, four-year colleges and universities.
• The Florida Postsecondary Student Assistance Grant is available to students who attend eligible degree-granting private colleges and universities not eligible under the Florida Private Student Assistance Grant.
• The Florida Public Postsecondary Career Education Student Assistance Grant is available to students who attend participating community colleges or career centers operated by district school boards.
• FSAG is a decentralized program, and each participating institution determines application procedures, deadlines, student eligibility, and award amounts.
  
  The Talented Twenty Program rewards high school students graduating in the top 20 percent of each senior class by guaranteeing them admission to one of the eleven state universities in Florida and by providing priority funding for the Florida Student Assistance Grant program, if eligible. The FSAG program is a need-based grant; therefore, Talented Twenty students must meet FSAG eligibility requirements in order to receive priority funding. Additional information regarding the Talented Twenty Program is available on the Office of Student Financial Assistance (OSFA) website.

What Are the Initial Eligibility Requirements to Receive Funding?

The student will:

• Be a Florida resident and a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen. A student’s residency and citizenship status are determined by the postsecondary institution. Questions regarding such status should be directed to the financial aid office or admissions office of the institution the student plans to attend.
• Not owe a repayment or be in default under any state or federal grant, loan, or scholarship program unless satisfactory arrangements to repay have been made.
• Not have previously received a baccalaureate degree.
• Enroll for a minimum of 12 credit hours per term, or the equivalent, in an associate or baccalaureate degree program at an eligible institution to participate in the FSAG Postsecondary, FSAG Private, or FSAG Public programs.
• Enroll for a minimum of six credit hours per term, or the equivalent in an associate or baccalaureate degree program at a state university or community college in order to participate in the FSAG Public Part-time program.
• Meet Florida’s general eligibility requirements for receipt of state aid.

How Does a Student Apply?

The student will demonstrate financial need by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) in time to be processed error free by the deadline specified by the institution.

How Does a Student Renew?

• A renewal applicant must have earned a minimum institutional cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale and earn the following for each term an award was received during the academic year for the programs listed below:
• Florida Public Student Assistance Grant,
• 12 credit hours for each term for full-time enrollment;
• 9 credit hours for three-quarter time enrollment; or
• 6 credit hours for half-time enrollment.
• Florida Private and Postsecondary Student Assistance Grants, 12 credit hours for each term award was received.
• Eligibility is determined at the end of the second semester or third quarter of each academic year. Credit hours earned during the previous summer can be counted toward the total number of credit hours required.
• A student should consult his/her postsecondary institution for renewal requirements established by the institution.
• Demonstrate financial need by completing an (error free) Free Application for Federal Student Aid each academic year by the deadline specified by the institution.

 What if a Student Does Not Meet the Minimum GPA Required for Renewal?

• If a student does not meet the minimum GPA, he/she may be granted a probationary award for two semesters or three quarters.
• To be eligible for renewal the following year after probation, the student must have earned the required credits and an institutional cumulative GPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale by the end of the probationary period.

 What if a Student Does Not Meet the Minimum Credit Hours Required for Renewal?

• A student who does not meet the annual minimum number of credit hours required for renewal may not receive funding the following academic year.
• To be eligible for funding in a subsequent year, the student must apply for restoration and meet the general eligibility requirements for restoration and have earned an institutional cumulative GPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale.

How Does a Student Restore?

• A student may be eligible for restoration if he/she has earned an institutional GPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale at the end of the second semester or third quarter of the academic year for which he/she was ineligible.
• A student may apply for restoration with the postsecondary institution after two semesters or three quarters at the end of the spring term.

How Does a Student Reinstate?

A student who met the requirements for a renewal award, but did not receive an award during a full year of eligibility and wishes to reestablish use of the grant, may apply for reinstatement with the postsecondary institution in a subsequent year provided the student has earned an institutional cumulative GPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale as of the end of the second semester or third quarter of the academic year preceding the year the award is sought.

What is the Award Process?

• The postsecondary institution will determine applicant eligibility and award amount.
• The annual minimum and maximum award amount may vary each academic year. For the 2007-08 academic year the minimum annual award amount is $200 and the maximum is $1,808.

How are Awards Disbursed?

OSFA allocates funds to eligible postsecondary institutions. Each postsecondary institution distributes awards to eligible students.

How Long May a Student Receive Funding?

• A student receiving the FSAG Public is eligible to receive an award for a maximum for 110% of the number of credit hours required to complete a program.
• A student receiving FSAG Private or Postsecondary is eligible to receive scholarship funding for 9 semesters or 14 quarters of full-time enrollment.
• Undergraduate students participating in college-preparatory instruction, students requiring additional time to complete the college-level communication and computation skills testing programs (CLAST), or students enrolled in a 5-year undergraduate degree program are eligible to receive financial aid for a maximum of 10 semesters or 15 quarters.
• Unused hours may not be used for further course funding after a student earns a baccalaureate degree.

 How May a Student Appeal?

An applicant who believes financial aid has been wrongly denied has certain rights to appeal.

If aid is denied for failure to meet satisfactory academic progress requirements, an applicant may appeal the denial to the institution by providing proof of illness or other emergency beyond the applicant's control. An institutional academic progress appeal is to be filed in writing within 30 days of the denial letter or by the date established by the institution's financial aid office, whichever is later.
 
How Does a Student Make Changes in Information?

An applicant must notify OSFA of any change in name, address, or institution attended. A student may update information in the following ways:

• By accessing and updating the student record on the OSFA website at www.FloridaStudentFinancialAid.org, using the assigned User ID and PIN:
• Select State Grants, Scholarships & Applications,
• select Application Status & Award History,
• select Initial Student Update, and then the appropriate option.
• By calling OSFA toll-free at 1-888-827-2004.

Transferring from one institution to another could affect an applicant’s award.
 
For further information contact the financial aid office at eligible postsecondary institutions or OSFA, State Programs, Suite 70, 1940 North Monroe Street, Tallahassee, Florida 32303-4759. Contact OSFA toll-free at 1-888-827-2004.

Florida Work Experience Program

Program Description

The Florida Work Experience Program (FWEP) is a need-based program providing eligible Florida students work experiences to complement and reinforce their educational and career goals. FWEP is a decentralized state of Florida program, which means that each participating college, university, community college, career center operated by a district school board, and educator preparation institute determines application procedures, deadlines, student eligibility, and award amount.

What are the Initial Eligibility Requirements to Receive Funding?

The student will:

• Be a Florida resident and a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen. A student’s residency and citizenship status are determined by the postsecondary institution. Questions regarding such status should be directed to the financial aid office or admissions office of the institution the student plans to attend.
• Not owe a repayment or be in default under any state or federal grant, loan, or scholarship program unless satisfactory arrangements to repay have been made.
• Not have previously received a baccalaureate degree (unless enrolled in an eligible educator preparation institute).
• Enroll for a minimum of six credit hours per term at an eligible college or university currently participating in FWEP in an associate or baccalaureate degree program, or
• Enroll no less than half-time in a career certificate program consisting of no less than 450 clock hours of instruction at an eligible career center, or
• Enroll as no less than a half-time student in good standing at an eligible educator preparation institute.
•  Maintain the equivalent of a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale.

How Does a Student Apply?

The student will demonstrate financial need by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) in time to be processed error free by the deadline specified by the institution.

How Does a Student Renew?

• A renewal applicant must have earned a minimum institutional cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale and during the academic year earned:
• 12 credit hours (360 clock hours) per term for full-time enrollment,  or
• 9 credit hours (270 clock hours) for three-quarter time enrollment, or
• 6 credit hours (180 clock hours) for half-time enrollment.
• Renewal eligibility is determined at the end of the second semester or third quarter of each academic year. Credit or clock hours earned during the previous summer can be counted toward the total number of credit hours required for renewal.
• Demonstrate financial need by completing an (error free) Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) each academic year by the deadline specified by the institution.

What if a Student Does Not Meet the Minimum GPA Required for Renewal?

• If a student does not meet the minimum GPA, he/she may be granted a probationary award for two semesters or three quarters.
• To be eligible for renewal the following year after probation, the student must have earned the required credits or clock hours and institutional cumulative GPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale.

What if a Student Does Not Meet the Minimum Credit/Clock Hours Required for Renewal?

• A student who does not meet the minimum number of credit or clock hours required for renewal may not receive funding the following academic year.
• To be eligible for funding in a subsequent year, the student must apply for restoration and meet the general eligibility requirements for restoration and have earned an institutional cumulative GPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale.

How Does a Student Restore?

• The student may be eligible for restoration if he/she has earned an institutional GPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale at the end of the second semester or third quarter of the academic year for which he/she was ineligible.
• A student may apply for restoration with the postsecondary institution after two semesters or three quarters at the end of the spring term.

How Does a Student Reinstate?

A student who met the requirements for a renewal award, but did not receive an award during a full year of eligibility and wishes to reestablish use of the grant, may apply for reinstatement with the postsecondary institution in a subsequent year provided the student has earned an institutional cumulative GPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale as of the end of the second semester or third quarter of the academic year preceding the year the award is sought.

What is the Award Process?

• The postsecondary institution will determine applicant eligibility, number of hours to be worked per week, and the award amount.
• The student’s award in combination with all other resources shall not exceed the student’s net financial need. The student’s earnings shall not exceed the FWEP award by more than $300 per academic year.

How are Awards Disbursed?

Funding is based on the number of hours a student worked. Students receive the award funding directly from the employer.

How Long May a Student Receive Funding?

• A student is eligible to participate in the program for a maximum of 8 semesters or 12 quarters, or the equivalent for less than full-time enrollment, or until the receipt of a first baccalaureate degree, whichever comes first.
• Undergraduate students participating in college-preparatory instruction, students requiring additional time to complete the college-level communication and computation skills testing programs (CLAST), or students enrolled in a 5-year undergraduate degree program are eligible to receive financial aid for a maximum of 10 semesters or 15 quarters.
• Unused hours may not be used for further course funding after a student earns a baccalaureate degree (except at an eligible educator preparation institute).

How May a Student Appeal?

An applicant who believes financial aid has been wrongly denied has certain rights to appeal.

If aid is denied for failure to meet satisfactory academic progress requirements, an applicant may appeal the denial to the institution by providing proof of illness or other emergency beyond the applicant's control. An institutional academic progress appeal is to be filed in writing within 30 days of the denial letter or by the date established by the institution’s financial aid office, whichever is later.
 
How Does a Student Make Changes in Information?

An applicant must notify OSFA of any change in name, address, or institution attended. A student may update information in the following ways:

• By accessing and updating the student record on the Office of Student Financial Assistance (OSFA) website at www.FloridaStudentFinancialAid.org, using the assigned User ID and PIN:
• Select State Grants, Scholarships & Applications,
• select Application Status & Award History,
• select Initial Student Update, and then the appropriate option.
• By calling OSFA toll-free at 1-888-827-2004.

Transferring from one institution to another could affect an applicant’s award.

For further information contact the financial aid office at eligible postsecondary institutions or OSFA, State Programs, Suite 70, 1940 North Monroe Street, Tallahassee, Florida 32303-4759. Contact OSFA toll-free at 1-888-827-2004.

José Martí Scholarship Challenge Grant Fund

Program Description

The José Martí Scholarship Challenge Grant Fund is a need-based merit scholarship that provides financial assistance to eligible students of Hispanic origin who will attend Florida public or eligible private institutions. Applicants for undergraduate study must apply during their senior year of high school. Graduate students may apply, but priority for the scholarships is given to graduating high school seniors. The number of new awards made each year is subject to contributions from private sources and funds appropriated by the Florida Legislature.

What are the Initial Eligibility Requirements to Receive Funding?

The student will:

• Be a Florida resident and a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen. A student’s residency and citizenship status are determined by the postsecondary institution. Questions regarding such status should be directed to the financial aid office or admissions office of the institution the student plans to attend.
• Not owe a repayment or be in default under any state or federal grant, loan, or scholarship program unless satisfactory arrangements to repay have been made.
• Be of Spanish culture, born in or having a natural parent who was born in either Mexico or Spain, or a Hispanic country of the Caribbean, Central or South America, regardless of race.
• Have earned, by the end of the seventh semester, a minimum unweighted institutional cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale in high school for an undergraduate scholarship, or a 3.0 unweighted institutional cumulative GPA for undergraduate college work if applying for a graduate level scholarship.
• Enroll as a degree-seeking student at an eligible postsecondary institution and enroll each academic term for a minimum of 12 credit hours for undergraduate study or 9 credit hours for graduate study.

How Does a Student Apply?

The student will:

• For undergraduate study, submit a fully completed (error free) Initial Student Florida Financial Aid Application during the student’s last year in high school by April 1. An applicant must ensure that either the high school principal or designee certifies the student’s 7th semester unweighted cumulative GPA online to the Office of Student Financial Assistance (OSFA) by a date established by the Florida Department of Education (FDOE).
• For graduate study, submit a fully completed (error free) Initial Student Florida Financial Aid Application by April 1 prior to the year of graduate study. An applicant must ensure that an admissions office official at the postsecondary institution the applicant attends certifies the student’s unweighted institutional cumulative GPA online to OSFA by a date established by FDOE.
• Demonstrate sufficient financial need to receive a full $2,000 scholarship by completing and submitting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) in time to be processed error free by the U.S. Department of Education on or before May 15.

How Does a Student Renew?

• A renewal application is not required. A recipient is automatically considered for a renewal award.
• Eligibility for renewal is determined at the end of the second semester, third quarter, or the equivalent of each academic year. Credit hours earned the previous summer can be counted toward the total number of credit hours required for renewal.
  
  A renewal applicant will:
• Have earned a minimum unweighted institutional cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
• For undergraduate study, have earned 12 credit hours per term or the equivalent during the academic year in which aid was received. For graduate study, have earned 9 credit hours per term or the equivalent during the academic year in which aid was received.
• Demonstrate a minimum of $2,000 in financial need. File the FAFSA each academic year in time to be processed error free by the U.S. Department of Education on or before May 15.

What if a Student Does Not Meet the Minimum GPA Required for Renewal?

• If a student does not meet the minimum GPA, he/she may be granted a probationary award for two semesters or three quarters.
• A student who does not earn a 3.0 GPA by the end of the spring semester or third quarter of the probationary academic year shall be ineligible to continue on the program.

What if a Student Does Not Meet the Minimum Credit Hours Required for Renewal?

An undergraduate or graduate student who does not meet the required credit hours required shall be ineligible to continue on the program. Required hours include:

• For undergraduate study, during the previous summer and two semesters or three quarters, at least 12 credit hours per term or the equivalent for the number of terms for which the award was received.
• For graduate study, during the previous summer and two semesters or three quarters, at least 9 credit hours per term or the equivalent for the number of terms for which the award was received.

How Does a Student Restore?

• A student may not restore. Restoration is the process by which an applicant loses eligibility for a specific program award due to an academic standard(s) deficiency but subsequently re-establishes eligibility for a specific program award. Restoration is not an available option for the José Martí Scholarshi

  State Financial Aid Information

  Find state financial aid information for the specific state that you live in. Find contact information for your local federal aid office, and get details about specific federal aid programs in your area.

  • Alabama
  • Alaska
  • Arizona
  • Arkansas
  • California
  • Colorado
  • Connecticut
  • Delaware
  • District of Columbia
  • Florida
  • Georgia
  • Hawaii
  • Idaho
  • Illinois
  • Indiana
  • Iowa
  • Kansas
  • Kentucky
  • Louisiana
  • Maine
  • Maryland
  • Massachusetts
  • Michigan
  • Minnesota
  • Mississippi
  • Missouri
  • Montana
  • Nebraska
  • Nevada
  • New Hampshire
  • New Jersey
  • New Mexico
  • New York
  • North Carolina
  • North Dakota
  • Ohio
  • Oklahoma
  • Oregon
  • Pennsylvania
  • Rhode Island
  • South Carolina
  • South Dakota
  • Tennessee
  • Texas
  • Utah
  • Vermont
  • Virginia
  • Washington
  • West Virginia
  • Wisconsin
  • Wyoming