10 Online Colleges That Accept FAFSA 2026

Updated on:

April 28, 2026

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) helps college students find out for what financial aid they qualify. The application is accepted at most colleges and universities. Discover accredited online colleges that accept FAFSA.

Paying for college can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re trying to balance work, family, and other responsibilities. The good news is that many accredited online colleges accept the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which can help lower your out-of-pocket costs.

When a school participates in federal financial aid programs, you may qualify for grants, federal student loans, or work-study opportunities. Below, you’ll find 10 nonprofit online colleges that accept FAFSA, along with what that means for your budget and how to compare your options.

What Does It Mean When a College Accepts FAFSA?

When a college accepts FAFSA, it means the school participates in federal Title IV financial aid programs. After you submit your FAFSA form, the U.S. Department of Education uses your financial information to determine whether you qualify for aid such as Pell Grants, federal student loans, or work-study funding.

To participate in these programs, a college must be accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Most public universities and many nonprofit private institutions qualify, but some online schools do not. Confirming FAFSA participation helps ensure you can use federal aid to make your degree more affordable.

10 Online Colleges That Accept FAFSA

The schools below are regionally accredited, nonprofit institutions with strong online degree offerings. Each participates in federal Title IV financial aid programs, which means eligible students can apply FAFSA funds toward tuition and other approved education expenses.

We’ve listed them alphabetically to keep the focus on access and affordability rather than prestige. All offer flexible online programs designed to support working adults, transfer students, and learners returning to college.

1. Arizona State University

Arizona State University (ASU) Online is based in Tempe, Arizona, and offers more than 300 fully online degree and certificate programs across business, health, engineering, education, and liberal arts. Its online division mirrors the academic standards of its on-campus programs, giving students access to the same faculty and curriculum in a flexible format designed for working adults.

Arizona State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and participates in federal Title IV financial aid programs. Eligible students may use FAFSA to apply for federal grants and loans, and the university also offers institutional scholarships and payment plans to help manage costs.

2. Athens State University

Athens State University is located in Athens, Alabama, and is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). Designed primarily for transfer students, Athens State offers a wide range of fully online bachelor’s degree completion programs in areas like business, education, information technology, and health care management.

Because it focuses on upper-division coursework, Athens State can be a strong option if you already have some college credits and want an affordable path to finish your degree online. The university participates in federal financial aid programs, so eligible students can use FAFSA to access Pell Grants, loans, and other aid. The school is also one of the most affordable online colleges in Alabama.

3. Ball State University

Ball State University is accredited by the HLC. The school offers a large selection of online programs, including fully online bachelor’s degrees in fields like business administration, criminal justice, psychology, and early childhood education, along with numerous certificate and graduate options.

Located in Muncie, Indiana, Ball State has built out its online offerings to support both traditional and adult learners, with flexible course formats and multiple start dates throughout the year. Students enrolled in online programs can submit the FAFSA to qualify for federal aid, and Ball State also offers institutional scholarships and payment plans that can help make earning a degree more manageable.

4. Bellevue University

Bellevue University offers a wide variety of career-focused online bachelor’s programs in areas like business, cybersecurity, project management, and health sciences, along with flexible options designed for adult learners and working professionals. Many programs are structured in cohort formats or accelerated terms, which can help students move through coursework efficiently.

Located in Bellevue, Nebraska, the university is accredited by the HLC. Bellevue is known for its strong transfer credit policies, which may help reduce overall tuition costs. Students can complete the FAFSA to determine eligibility for federal grants and loans, and the university also offers scholarships, military benefits, and employer tuition assistance partnerships to help lower out-of-pocket expenses.

5. Charter Oak State College

Charter Oak State College focuses almost entirely on serving adult learners through flexible online degree completion programs. Located in New Britain, Connecticut, the public institution is known for generous transfer credit policies, making it a practical option if you already have prior college coursework.

The college is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) and participates in federal financial aid programs. Students who qualify may use FAFSA to access Pell Grants and federal student loans, and in-state tuition rates can make programs especially affordable for Connecticut residents, and even allow students to get free online college in Connecticut.

6. Colorado State University Global

Colorado State University Global is a fully online public university created specifically for adult learners. It offers career-focused bachelor’s and master’s degrees in fields such as business, information technology, healthcare administration, and criminal justice, with monthly start dates that can make scheduling more manageable. It also offers some of the top accelerated online bachelor’s degrees in Colorado.

Headquartered in Aurora, Colorado, the university is accredited by the HLC. As a Title IV institution, it accepts FAFSA, allowing eligible students to apply federal grants and loans toward tuition. Transparent per-credit tuition and available institutional scholarships can help you plan your costs more clearly.

7. Excelsior University

Excelsior University is located in Albany, New York, and is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE). The university specializes in flexible online education, offering a wide range of bachelor’s degree programs in fields like business, health sciences, liberal arts, public service, and technology. Many programs are designed with adult learners in mind and allow generous transfer credit, including credit for prior learning and professional experience.

Excelsior can be a practical option if you want to build on existing credits or work experience to finish your degree more quickly. The university accepts FAFSA, so eligible students may qualify for federal grants and loans, and it also offers institutional scholarships and tuition discounts that can help reduce overall costs.

8. Florida International University

Florida International University is located in Miami, Florida, and offers a large selection of fully online bachelor’s degrees through its FIU Online platform. Popular programs include business administration, psychology, hospitality management, and information technology, many of which are taught by the same faculty as on-campus courses.

The university is accredited by the SACSCOC. As a public research university, FIU provides access to federal financial aid through FAFSA, including Pell Grants and student loans for qualifying students. Florida residents may benefit from lower in-state tuition rates, while all online students can explore scholarships and financial aid packages to help manage costs.

9. Franklin University

Franklin University specializes in serving working adults, offering fully online associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs in business, technology, healthcare, and public service. Many programs are transfer-friendly, and the university accepts a high number of previously earned credits, which can shorten your time to completion.

Based in Columbus, Ohio, Franklin University is accredited by the HLC and participates in federal Title IV financial aid programs. By submitting the FAFSA, eligible students may qualify for Pell Grants and federal student loans, and the university also offers employer partnerships and institutional scholarships to help reduce overall costs. It’s one of the cheapest online colleges in Ohio.

10. Liberty University

Liberty University is accredited by the SACSCOC. It offers one of the largest selections of online bachelor’s degree programs in the country, with options in business, psychology, criminal justice, information technology, education, and health sciences, among many others. Courses are typically delivered in eight-week formats, which can help students stay focused and move through material efficiently.

Located in Lynchburg, Virginia, Liberty has built its online programs to support a wide range of students, including working adults, military service members, and recent high school graduates. The university accepts FAFSA, allowing eligible students to access federal grants and loans, and it also offers military discounts, scholarships, and payment plans to help make tuition more manageable.

11. National University

National University is located in San Diego, California, and is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC). The university is known for its flexible online format, offering month-long courses and year-round enrollment, which can help students complete their degrees at a steady pace. Online bachelor’s programs are available in areas like business administration, cybersecurity, psychology, education, and health care.

National University is designed with adult learners in mind, including working professionals and military-affiliated students. The school participates in federal financial aid programs, so students can submit the FAFSA to determine eligibility for grants and loans. Additional support may include scholarships, tuition discounts, and employer or military education benefits.

12. Old Dominion University

Old Dominion University (ODU) is located in Norfolk, Virginia, and offers a wide range of online bachelor’s degree programs through its ODU Online platform. Popular areas of study include business, criminal justice, engineering technology, nursing (RN to BSN), and interdisciplinary studies. Many programs are designed as degree-completion options, making them a good fit if you already have college credits.

The university is accredited by the SACSCOC. As a public institution, Old Dominion participates in federal financial aid programs, so eligible students can use FAFSA to access Pell Grants, loans, and other aid. Virginia residents may benefit from lower tuition rates, and the school also offers scholarships and transfer-friendly policies that can help reduce overall costs.

13. Park University

Park University is accredited by the HLC. It offers a variety of online bachelor’s degree programs in fields such as business administration, criminal justice, information systems, social psychology, and management, with flexible scheduling options designed to support working adults and military students.

Located in Parkville, Missouri, Park University has a long history of serving military and nontraditional students, including those studying online. The university accepts FAFSA, allowing eligible students to qualify for federal financial aid, and it also provides scholarships, military tuition discounts, and employer partnership programs that can help lower out-of-pocket expenses.

14. Penn State World Campus

Penn State World Campus delivers online degrees through The Pennsylvania State University, extending the reach of one of the nation’s largest public research institutions. Students can choose from undergraduate and graduate programs in business, education, engineering, health, and more, with courses developed by the same academic departments that teach on campus.

The university is accredited by the MSCHE and participates in federal financial aid programs. Located in University Park, Pennsylvania, Penn State allows eligible online students to use FAFSA funds, and the school offers payment plans and scholarship opportunities to support affordability.

15. Regis University

Regis University is located in Denver and is accredited by the HLC. The university offers a range of fully online bachelor’s degree programs in areas like business, computer science, health care administration, and liberal arts, many of which are designed with adult learners in mind. Flexible course formats and multiple start dates can make it easier to balance school with work or family responsibilities.

Regis participates in federal financial aid programs, so eligible students can complete the FAFSA to access grants and loans. The university also offers institutional scholarships, transfer credit opportunities, and support services that can help reduce overall costs and keep students on track to graduation.

16. Southern New Hampshire University

Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) offers more than 200 online degree and certificate programs in business, technology, healthcare, education, and liberal arts. The university is widely known for serving adult learners and transfer students, with multiple start dates throughout the year and flexible course formats designed to fit around work schedules.

Based in Manchester, New Hampshire, the nonprofit institution is accredited by the NECHE. It participates in federal Title IV financial aid programs, so eligible students may use FAFSA to access grants and federal loans. Competitive tuition rates and institutional scholarships can further help reduce your total cost.

17. SUNY Empire State University

Part of the State University of New York (SUNY) system, SUNY Empire State University is based in Saratoga Springs, New York, and was built with adult learners in mind. The school offers flexible online associate, bachelor’s, and master’s programs, including customizable degree pathways that can incorporate prior learning and transfer credits.

Empire State University is accredited by the MSCHE and participates in federal financial aid programs. Students who complete the FAFSA may qualify for Pell Grants, federal loans, and New York state aid programs, which can Empire State one of the most affordable online colleges in New York.

18. Thomas Edison State University

Thomas Edison State University (TESU) was created specifically to serve adult learners seeking flexible degree completion pathways. Students can choose from a wide range of online associate, bachelor’s, and graduate programs, and the university is especially known for allowing credit-by-exam and prior learning assessment options.

Located in Trenton, New Jersey, the public university is accredited by the MSCHE. As a Title IV participant, it accepts FAFSA, allowing qualified students to apply federal financial aid toward tuition. In-state tuition rates and transfer-friendly policies can make it a cost-conscious option.

19. Troy University

Troy University is located in Troy, Alabama, and offers a wide selection of online bachelor’s degree programs in fields such as business, criminal justice, psychology, education, and nursing (RN to BSN). Many programs are designed for flexibility, with multiple start dates and courses that can fit around a working schedule.

The university is accredited by the SACSCOC. Troy participates in federal financial aid programs, so students can submit the FAFSA to determine eligibility for Pell Grants, loans, and other forms of aid. The school also offers scholarships, military tuition assistance, and competitive tuition rates that can make earning a degree more affordable.

20. University of Central Florida

The University of Central Florida (UCF) is located in Orlando, Florida, and is accredited by the SACSCOC. UCF offers a large catalog of fully online bachelor’s degree programs in areas like business administration, psychology, communication, health services administration, and information technology, many of which are taught by the same faculty as on-campus courses.

As a major public university, UCF provides access to federal financial aid through FAFSA, including Pell Grants and student loans for qualifying students. Florida residents may benefit from lower in-state tuition rates, and all online students can explore scholarships and financial aid packages that can help make the total cost more manageable.

21. University of Maine Augusta

The University of Maine at Augusta is located in Augusta, Maine, and offers a variety of fully online bachelor’s degree programs in fields like business administration, cybersecurity, mental health and human services, and public administration. The school is known for its flexible scheduling and strong support for adult learners, including generous transfer credit policies.

The university is accredited by the NECHE. As part of the University of Maine System, it participates in federal financial aid programs, allowing eligible students to use FAFSA to access grants and loans. The school also offers relatively affordable tuition rates and regional tuition agreements that may help lower costs for out-of-state students.

22. University of Maryland Global Campus

University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC) was also created to serve working adults, military service members, and transfer students seeking flexible degree options. The university offers a wide range of fully online associate, bachelor’s, and master’s programs in fields such as cybersecurity, business, healthcare, and information technology.

Headquartered in Adelphi, Maryland, the public institution is accredited by the MSCHE. It participates in federal Title IV financial aid programs, so eligible students can use FAFSA to access Pell Grants and federal loans. Military tuition discounts and payment plans can further help reduce overall costs.

23. University of Massachusetts Global

The University of Massachusetts Global (UMass Global) is located in Aliso Viejo, California, and offers a wide range of fully online bachelor’s degree programs in areas like business administration, psychology, organizational leadership, and information technology. Many programs are designed for adult learners, with flexible scheduling and opportunities to transfer previously earned college credits.

The university is accredited by the WSCUC. Students can submit the FAFSA to determine eligibility for federal financial aid, including grants and loans, and the school also offers scholarships, employer tuition assistance partnerships, and military benefits that can help reduce overall costs.

24. University of Missouri

The University of Missouri (Mizzou) is located in Columbia, Missouri, and is accredited by the HLC. Through its Mizzou Online platform, the university offers a variety of online bachelor’s degree programs in fields like health sciences, hospitality management, business, and nursing, along with numerous certificate and graduate options.

As a public flagship university, Mizzou provides access to federal financial aid through FAFSA, allowing eligible students to apply for Pell Grants, loans, and other assistance. Missouri residents may benefit from in-state tuition rates, and the university also offers scholarships and financial aid packages that can help make earning a degree more affordable.

25. University of Nebraska at Kearney

The University of Nebraska at Kearney is located in Kearney, Nebraska, and offers a range of online bachelor’s degree programs in areas like business administration, education, criminal justice, and family studies. The university focuses on flexible, student-centered learning, with options that can appeal to both traditional students and working adults.

The university is accredited by the HLC. As part of the University of Nebraska system, it participates in federal financial aid programs, so students can complete the FAFSA to access grants and loans if they qualify. The school also offers scholarships and relatively affordable tuition rates, especially for Nebraska residents and online learners in certain partner states.

26. University of New Hampshire

The University of New Hampshire offers a variety of online bachelor’s degree programs through its UNH Online platform, with options in fields like business, communication, psychology, and liberal arts. Many programs are designed for flexibility, with asynchronous coursework and multiple start dates that can work well for adult learners or students balancing other responsibilities.

Located in Durham, New Hampshire, the university is accredited by the NECHE. UNH participates in federal financial aid programs, so eligible students can complete the FAFSA to access grants and loans. The university also offers scholarships and transfer-friendly pathways that may help reduce the total cost of a degree.

27. University of North Texas

The University of North Texas is located in Denton, Texas, and offers a growing selection of fully online bachelor’s degree programs in areas like applied arts and sciences, business, criminal justice, and information science. Many of these programs are designed to maximize transfer credits, which can help students finish their degrees more efficiently.

The university is accredited by the SACSCOC. As a public institution, UNT participates in federal financial aid programs, allowing students to submit the FAFSA to determine eligibility for grants and loans. Texas residents may benefit from lower in-state tuition rates, and the university also offers scholarships and financial aid packages to help manage costs.

28. Washington State University

Washington State University (WSU) is located in Pullman, Washington, and is accredited by the NWCCU. Through WSU Global Campus, the university offers a wide range of fully online bachelor’s degree programs in fields like business administration, psychology, criminal justice, accounting, and human development.

WSU’s online programs are designed to mirror the on-campus experience, with courses taught by the same faculty and structured to support student success from start to finish. Students can complete the FAFSA to access federal financial aid, including grants and loans, and the university also offers scholarships and support services to help make earning a degree more affordable.

29. Western Governors University

Western Governors University (WGU) operates as a fully online nonprofit university built around a competency-based learning model. Instead of traditional semesters, students progress by demonstrating mastery of course material, which can make tuition more predictable and potentially lower overall costs for motivated learners.

Based in Salt Lake City, Western Governors University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU). As a Title IV institution, it accepts FAFSA, allowing eligible students to apply federal grants and loans toward flat-rate tuition per term. Institutional scholarships are also available to qualifying students.

30. Wilmington University

Wilmington University is located in New Castle, Delaware, and offers a wide range of fully online bachelor’s degree programs in areas like business management, criminal justice, psychology, health sciences, and information systems. Many programs are designed with working adults in mind, featuring flexible scheduling, accelerated course options, and generous transfer credit policies.

The university is accredited by the MSCHE. Wilmington participates in federal financial aid programs, so students can submit the FAFSA to determine eligibility for grants and loans. The school also offers scholarships, employer tuition partnerships, and relatively affordable tuition rates that can help keep overall costs manageable.

How We Rank Schools

To create this list, we review data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard and the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), along with program-level details published by each university.

We focus on factors that directly affect affordability, access to federal aid, and flexibility for online students. The criteria below reflect what matters most if you plan to use FAFSA to help pay for your degree.

Accreditation: Each school must hold regional accreditation and participate in federal Title IV financial aid programs, ensuring students can apply FAFSA funds.
Online Program Availability: We prioritize institutions with substantial fully online degree offerings rather than schools with only limited online options.
Affordability: We consider tuition structure, cost transparency, and the availability of institutional scholarships that may help lower total expenses.
Financial Aid Participation: Schools must actively accept FAFSA and provide access to federal grants, loans, and other qualifying aid programs.
Support for Adult And Transfer Students: We look for flexible admissions policies, transfer credit options, and advising services that can make degree completion more manageable.

How Much Does an Online College That Accepts FAFSA Cost?

Tuition for accredited online colleges typically ranges from about $300 to $600 per credit for bachelor’s programs, though public in-state rates can fall below that and private nonprofit schools may charge more. Master’s programs often range from $400 to $800 per credit, depending on the field and institution.

Your actual cost depends on residency, transfer credits, enrollment status, and whether your program uses per-credit or flat-rate tuition. Completing the FAFSA may significantly reduce your out-of-pocket expenses if you qualify for federal grants or subsidized loans.

Financial Aid Options Available Through FAFSA

Submitting the FAFSA can open the door to several types of federal financial aid. The amount you qualify for depends on factors such as income, enrollment status, and degree level.

Federal Pell Grant: A need-based grant that does not require repayment and is typically available to eligible undergraduate students.
Federal Direct Subsidized Loans: Need-based loans for undergraduate students where the government pays interest while you are enrolled at least half time.
Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans: Loans available to undergraduate and graduate students regardless of financial need, with interest accruing during enrollment.
Federal PLUS Loans: Credit-based loans available to graduate students or parents of dependent undergraduate students.
Federal Work-Study: A program that provides part-time employment opportunities to help students earn money for education expenses.

FAQs About Online Colleges That Accept FAFSA

Choosing an online college that accepts FAFSA can raise practical questions about eligibility, costs, and enrollment requirements. Below, we answer some of the most common concerns so you can better understand how federal financial aid works for online programs.

Do All Online Colleges Accept FAFSA?

Not all online colleges participate in federal financial aid programs. To accept FAFSA, a school must be accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and approved to offer Title IV aid. Most public universities and nonprofit institutions qualify, but some private or for-profit online schools may not. Before enrolling, you should confirm the college’s accreditation status and financial aid participation to ensure you can use federal grants or loans.

Can I Use FAFSA for Part-Time Online Enrollment?

Many online students can use FAFSA while enrolled part time, though your aid amount may be reduced. Federal Pell Grant awards and loan eligibility are often adjusted based on your credit load, so taking fewer classes typically results in smaller disbursements. Some aid programs require at least half-time enrollment, so reviewing your school’s financial aid policies can help you understand how part-time status may affect your funding.

Does FAFSA Cover the Full Cost of Online College?

FAFSA does not guarantee full coverage of tuition and expenses. While some students with high financial need may receive enough grant aid to cover most costs at lower-priced institutions, many rely on a combination of grants, loans, scholarships, and personal funds. Your total aid package depends on factors such as income, enrollment status, and the school’s cost of attendance. Comparing tuition rates and financial aid offers can help you estimate your remaining balance.

Are Online Students Eligible for Pell Grants?

Online students may qualify for Federal Pell Grants if they meet income and enrollment requirements. Pell Grants are need-based and generally available to undergraduate students who have not yet earned a bachelor’s degree. As long as your program is offered by an accredited institution that participates in Title IV funding, online enrollment does not prevent you from receiving this type of federal grant.

Do I Need To Reapply for FAFSA Every Year?

You must complete the FAFSA each academic year if you want to continue receiving federal financial aid. Financial circumstances, dependency status, and enrollment plans can change over time, which may affect your eligibility. Submitting your FAFSA early each year can improve your chances of receiving the maximum aid available and help your school process your award before tuition deadlines.

Explore Accredited Online Colleges That Accept FAFSA

Find the perfect affordable school by exploring the online options that accept FAFSA featured on Learn.org. Check out the featured accredited online colleges below by state to find the best program for you.