4 Online Colleges That Accept FAFSA in Montana

The cost of earning a degree, even an online one, can be so high that many people choose not to pursue higher education. However, by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA, you may qualify for financial aid that can drastically reduce your costs.

There are hundreds of in-person and online colleges that accept FAFSA across the country. Students in Montana can find some of these in their state.

4 Best Online Colleges That Accept FAFSA in Montana

FAFSA assesses your eligibility for federal and state financial aid and often influences your eligibility for other types of aid. Filling out the FAFSA allows students to access student aid and affordable online colleges in Montana.

Montana has the lowest population density in the contiguous U.S., so it's no surprise that it only has a few online institutions. Keep reading to discover Montana colleges and universities that offer online programs and accept financial aid; all institutions listed are regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).

1. Montana State University Billings

Montana State University Billings is a public school in Billings, MT. It's a member of the Montana University System (MUS) and offers online associate, bachelor's, and master's degree programs in fields such as:

• business administration
• criminal justice
• healthcare administration
• public relations

Like many public institutions, Montana residents pay a lower in-state tuition rate than out-of-state students at MSU B. In addition to accepting FAFSA aid for students, the university awards over $1.8 million in scholarships every year. To take advantage of these opportunities, college students should enter the school's federal code, 002530, when they fill out their FAFSA.

2. Montana State University-Northern

At Montana State University-Northern, students can earn undergraduate degrees and one master's degree through distance learning. MSU N is a public college in Havre, MT.

Online students can earn degrees in areas of study like business administration, criminal justice, education, and nursing. The university offers scholarships as well as tuition waivers to military veterans and Native American students, and its FAFSA code is 002533.

3. University of Montana

Online programs at the University of Montana are available from the associate through the doctoral degree levels. These online degree programs are in fields such as communication, education, natural sciences, and social work.

The University of Montana is a public research institution in Missoula, MT, and the flagship campus of the Montana University System. It accepts FAFSA and offers scholarships to help students pay for their college degrees. Students will need the code 002536 for FAFSA.

4. University of Providence

The University of Providence is a private, nonprofit Catholic school in Great Falls, MT. It offers online undergraduate and graduate degrees in areas of study like:

• criminal justice
• healthcare administration
• nursing
• organizational leadership

In addition to federal aid, students at the university can take advantage of the school's scholarship and work-study programs to cover their online education. Its FAFSA code is 002527.

Other Online Colleges That Accept FAFSA in the U.S.

While there aren't a ton of online learning options in Montana, online students have the advantage of being able to learn from any online college, regardless of what state it's in. Below, we've highlighted a few additional online schools that accept FAFSA, all of which are regionally accredited.

1. Colorado State University Global

Students at Colorado State University Global can earn online bachelor's and master's degrees. CSU Global is the online campus of the public Colorado State University System and offers only online programs, none in person.

Online degree programs are available in fields such as business management, computer science, healthcare administration, and human services. The university's FAFSA code is 042087.

2. Columbia College

Online programs at Columbia College include a variety of undergraduate and graduate degrees. These are offered in areas of study like business administration, criminal justice, cybersecurity, and healthcare management.

Columbia College is a private, nonprofit school in Columbia, MS. It offers a variety of scholarships specifically for online students, and its FAFSA code is 002456.

3. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Worldwide

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University is a private, nonprofit university based in Daytona Beach, FL. It offers online courses and programs to distance learners in fields such as:

• aviation
• business
• computer science
• engineering

Students at ERAU can use federal student aid as well as institutional aid to pay for their coursework. The FAFSA code for the online college is 001479.

4. Franklin University

At Franklin University, students can complete undergraduate and graduate programs online. Franklin University is a private, nonprofit institution in Columbus, OH.

It offers online programs in areas of study like business, communications, education, and healthcare. Students can use the FAFSA code 003046 to access federal and institutional aid at Franklin.

5. National University

Online programs at National University include associate through doctoral degrees, as well as certificate programs. Students will find these in fields such as business, healthcare, nursing, and technology.

National University is a private, nonprofit school in San Diego that primarily offers programs online, though does offer some on campus. It offers a variety of ways for students to make their online classes affordable, and its FAFSA code is 011460.

6. Southern New Hampshire University

Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit institution in Manchester, NH. It offers undergraduate and graduate programs online in areas of study like:

• communication and public relations
• computer science
• criminal justice
• healthcare administration

Students at SNHU can use federal financial aid to help cover the cost of their higher education. The school's FAFSA code is 002580.

Applying for FAFSA in Montana

The FAFSA is how the U.S. Department of Education determines student eligibility for financial aid. We've broken down the basics of applying for FAFSA below.

Eligibility

Since FAFSA is meant to determine your eligibility for financial aid, there are very few eligibility requirements for actually filling out the application. These include:

• be a citizen or an eligible non-citizen of the U.S
• have or be in the process of earning a high school diploma or equivalent
• be planning to enroll in an accredited college or university for the next academic year

All students should fill out the FAFSA, regardless of what they think they may be approved for.

Steps To Apply

The first thing you need to do to apply for FAFSA is to create an account on StudentAid.gov, the U.S. Department of Education's financial aid website. Then, you'll need to gather everything you need to fill out the FAFSA.

This includes your household's tax returns and bank statements. If you're still considered a dependent, you'll also need your parents' information, like their birthdates and social security numbers. If you're married, you'll need this from your spouse.

You should also gather the FAFSA codes for all the schools you're applying to, even if you haven't been accepted or begun enrollment yet. This guarantees that these schools will receive your FAFSA results.

Filling out the form takes about an hour. Once you've signed and submitted it, you can track the status of your application through your student aid account.

Other Financial Aid Options for Online College in Montana

Montana residents can take advantage of several state-based financial aid programs that supplement FAFSA and help lower tuition costs. These options support both traditional and online learners at public and private colleges.

Montana University System Honor Scholarship

The Montana University System (MUS) Honor Scholarship is a merit-based award for Montana high school graduates who demonstrate strong academic performance. Applicants must complete the FAFSA and meet GPA and ACT or SAT score requirements.

Online students attending participating MUS institutions can use this scholarship to cover tuition for up to four years. It’s designed to keep top students in-state while making higher education more affordable.

Montana Tuition Assistance Program

The Montana Tuition Assistance Program provides need-based grants for residents attending eligible colleges or universities in the state. Completing the FAFSA automatically determines your eligibility for this funding.

Online learners at public or private institutions may use these grants to help pay for tuition and related expenses. Awards vary based on financial need and available state resources each academic year.

Montana STEM Scholarship

The Montana STEM Scholarship supports students pursuing degrees in science, technology, engineering, or math fields at eligible in-state institutions. To qualify, you must complete the FAFSA and maintain satisfactory academic progress.

Online students enrolled in accredited STEM programs can apply these funds toward tuition and fees. This scholarship encourages Montana residents to develop skills for high-demand careers within the state.

FAQs About Using FAFSA for College in Montana

FAFSA opens the door to both federal and state financial aid opportunities for Montana students. Below are answers to common questions about using FAFSA and finding additional funding for your online degree.

Can I Use FAFSA for Online College?

Yes, FAFSA can be used for accredited online colleges in Montana. Most regionally accredited institutions accept federal financial aid for both online and on-campus programs.

If you’re unsure about eligibility, contact your school’s financial aid office to confirm. Verifying this early ensures your FAFSA funds will be applied to your tuition correctly.

How Much Does an Online Degree Cost?

Online degree costs vary depending on factors such as degree level, school type, and residency status. Public institutions in Montana generally offer lower tuition for in-state students than private colleges.

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, tuition in Montana is below the national average, making it a cost-effective option. Completing the FAFSA can further reduce your overall expenses.

Are There Scholarship Opportunities for Online Programs?

Yes, many scholarships are available for students enrolled in online programs. Some are specifically designed for distance learners, while others apply to all students regardless of learning format.

Montana residents can apply for scholarships such as the MUS Honor Scholarship or the Montana STEM Scholarship. These awards can significantly reduce tuition costs for eligible students pursuing online education.

Find an Affordable Online College in Montana

Montana students can take advantage of multiple state and federal aid programs to make college more affordable. Explore accredited online colleges on Learn.org to compare degree options, discover scholarships, and find the best fit for your educational goals.