10 Online Colleges That Accept FAFSA in Missouri

You may be concerned about how to pay for school if you're thinking of attending college online in Missouri. Specifically, you're wondering which online colleges accept the FAFSA.

In Missouri, 143 individual colleges and universities accept federal and state student aid programs through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Many of these schools offer online education for associate degrees, bachelor's degrees, master's degrees, and doctoral degrees, along with various career certifications.

Keep reading to find out more.

10 Best Online Colleges That Accept FAFSA in Missouri

Online degree programs offer a convenient way to further your education. Many Missouri schools provide these programs. Discover some of the top online schools in Missouri that accept the FAFSA below.

1. University of Missouri System

The University of Missouri is headquartered in Columbia but has additional campuses in:

• St. Louis
• Kansas City
• Rolla

Various online bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees are available through the Columbia, St. Louis, and Kansas City campuses, with subjects ranging from business administration to information technology to healthcare. Aspiring Missouri students can use the following FAFSA school codes for each campus:

• University of Missouri Columbia (Mizzou): 002516
• University of Missouri St. Louis (UMSL): 002519
• University of Missouri Kansas City (UMKC): 002518

2. Missouri State University

Missouri State University in Springfield is the second largest school in the state following the University of Missouri Columbia with an enrollment of more than 23,400 students. It offers a variety of online degree programs in subjects such as:

• criminology and criminal justice
• marketing
• social work

Prospective students planning to attend Missouri State University should enter school code 002503 when completing the FAFSA to be considered for financial aid programs.

3. University of Central Missouri

The University of Central Missouri is a public college located in Warrensburg. It offers various undergraduate degree programs for online learners. Programs include:

• sociology
• communication studies
• nursing

Graduate programs and certificates are also available online, helping students pursue various career goals. The FAFSA school code for this college is 002454.

4. Southeast Missouri State University

Southeast Missouri State University is a public school in Cape Girardeau. It offers highly affordable in-state tuition for all online students regardless of residency status. Online majors include:

• psychology
• computer information systems
• healthcare management

Distance learning options are available for those pursuing master's degrees, minors, and certifications as well. Those with financial need are encouraged to fill out the FAFSA and include this school's code, 002501.

5. Northwest Missouri State University

Northwest Missouri State University is located in Maryville and enrolls around 8,500 students. Various online classes and degree programs are available, including:

• political science
• human resource management
• business technology

Tuition costs vary depending on the program, but all online students pay the same for their graduate and undergraduate programs regardless of residency. Use school code 002496 when completing the FAFSA.

6. Saint Louis University

Saint Louis University is a prestigious private school in St. Louis. This school provides various online learning opportunities for graduate and undergraduate students. Online programs include:

• cybersecurity
• project management
• technology and leadership

Those hoping to attend this school should enter the code 002506 when filling out the FAFSA.

7. Maryville University

Maryville University is another private school located in St. Louis. It provides various in-person and online degrees, with many students taking advantage of the flexible online programs. Majors include:

• accounting
• digital media
• international studies

Both four-year degrees and online master's programs are available. The school's FAFSA code is 002482.

8. Webster University

Webster University is a private, nonprofit school located in Webster Groves, though it has various learning centers throughout the U.S. and internationally. Many online programs are available in both synchronous and asynchronous formats. Subjects include:

• data analytics
• education studies
• scriptwriting

Students can also complete various master's and specialist degrees and certificate programs online. Use school code 002521 on the FAFSA.

9. Central Methodist University

Central Methodist University is a private school located in Fayette. Students can earn fully online associate, bachelor's, and master's degrees through this school. Topics include:

• applied behavior analysis
• sports management
• computer science

Online programs offer flexibility and have generous transfer credit acceptance policies. The school's FAFSA code is 002453.

10. Missouri Baptist University

Missouri Baptist University is a Christian college located in Creve Coeur. Established in the 1950s, it currently enrolls 5,000 students and offers various online degree programs. Some of the options include:

• applied management
• ministry and leadership
• liberal arts

Associate, bachelor's, and master's programs are all available online. Use FAFSA code 007540.

Applying for FAFSA in Missouri

Whether you plan to take a few online courses or complete your degree online, completing the FAFSA can help you cover your college costs. Let's look at what you need to know about filling out the FAFSA in Missouri.

Eligibility

To be eligible for federal financial aid through the FAFSA, you must:

• be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen
• have financial need
• have a social security number
• be enrolled or accepted in a degree or certificate program at an accredited school
• not be in default on any federal student loan
• be willing and able to provide federal tax information on the FAFSA
• maintain satisfactory academic progress

Only accredited colleges and universities are eligible to receive FAFSA funds. Be sure to choose a school accredited by an organization such as the Higher Learning Commission or another nationally recognized accrediting body.

Steps To Apply

When you apply for the FAFSA, there are several steps you'll need to complete before the April 1st priority deadline in Missouri. These include:

• obtaining an FSA ID and using it to set up an online account
• starting the FAFSA form for the current school year
• completing the demographics portion of the form
• listing school codes for every school you want to receive your FAFSA information
• answering dependency status questions and having your parents or guardians fill out relevant sections if you are a dependent student
• supplying financial information
• signing and submitting the form

FAQs About Using FAFSA for College in Missouri

If you still have questions about completing the FAFSA and attending college in Missouri, you've come to the right place. Read on as we answer some common questions you may have.

Are There Specific Missouri State Grants or Scholarships That Require the FAFSA?

Yes. Most state-funded grants and scholarships in Missouri require students to complete the FAFSA to be eligible for the programs. Some of these include the Missouri A+ Program, which provides funding to students who graduate from eligible high schools, and the Access Missouri Grant, a need-based program for students from low-income households.

Can I Use the FAFSA To Apply for Work-Study Programs in Missouri?

Yes. To apply for federal or school-based work-study programs, you must complete the FAFSA to demonstrate financial eligibility.

Do I Need to Reapply for Financial Aid Each Year in Missouri?

Yes. To continue receiving FAFSA funding throughout your college experience, you must complete the FAFSA yearly. Always complete it by April 1st of the current school year, though students are encouraged to apply before February 1st to have the best chance of receiving the funds they need.