Can You Get FAFSA With a Felony in 2025?

Higher education is expensive, so most students must turn to financial aid to cover these costs. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, over 72% of all undergraduates received some kind of aid during the 2019-2020 school year. If you have a felony, you may wonder if you can qualify for financial aid and whether there may be limitations to receiving this assistance.

Fortunately, most felons do qualify for financial aid, which may include federal work-study, loans, or grants. It's important to note that there may be eligibility restrictions on certain types of aid. All students should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine whether they could qualify for any aid.

Below, we'll explore FAFSA for felons, including eligibility criteria, unique opportunities, and commonly asked questions. Keep reading if you want to learn more about financial aid for felons and these processes.

Can You Get FAFSA With a Felony?

Yes, you can get FAFSA with a felony. While some types of aid may be limited while you're incarcerated, once you're released, these limitations are removed. If you're concerned about getting accepted into college, don't be; there are many colleges that accept felons and offer support throughout the academic journey.

Those with a felony could even apply to some of the best online colleges that accept FAFSA and still receive an affordable, quality education.

What Types of Convictions Affect Eligibility for Federal Student Aid?

Eligibility for student financial aid can vary according to the type of conviction. It's important to review specific eligibility guidelines to understand how they may apply to specific situations.

Can You Get Financial Aid With a Drug Conviction?

Yes, you can get financial aid with a drug conviction. While drug convictions may have previously affected aid eligibility, new rules were put in place to eliminate this barrier for financial assistance. In the 2023-2024 academic year, FAFSA applicants didn't have to complete drug conviction questions on the application.

Can You Get Financial Aid With a Sexual Offense?

Those with convictions for sexual offenses that led to involuntary civil commitment after incarceration may qualify for federal Pell Grants as of July 2023.

Can You Get Financial Aid With a Theft Conviction?

Students with theft convictions may still qualify for financial aid.

Can You Get Financial Aid While on Parole or Probation?

Those out on parole or with probation qualify for federal financial aid. Once released from a correctional facility, all financial aid restrictions are removed.

Financial Aid For Felons

Several types of financial aid opportunities are available from the federal government and other organizations for individuals with felony convictions. Explore these options below, and find support for your educational journey.

1. FAFSA for Felons

Felons can apply for federal student aid through FAFSA, which helps students determine if they qualify for grants, loans, and work-study options. While some may worry that their criminal record will hinder their chances, FAFSA eligibility requirements are about financial need rather than criminal history.

By filling out the FAFSA, individuals with felony convictions can access the financial resources necessary to pursue their educational goals and create a better future.

2. Scholarships for Felons

Several organizations and institutions offer scholarships specifically for individuals with felony convictions. These aid programs provide financial assistance to help felons reintegrate into society through education. Some scholarship options include:

• Prison Education Foundation: This organization offers scholarships to incarcerated students, as well as those recently released.
• Transcending Through Education Foundation: Founded by formerly incarcerated individuals, this organization provides resources and scholarships to those currently in or recently released from the Rhode Island Department of Corrections.
• Charles W. Colson Scholarship: Wheaton College in Illinois offers scholarships specifically for students with felonies.

3. Pell Grants for Felons

Students in search of college grants for felons can apply for the federal Pell Grant. These grants are a vital resource for both incarcerated and released convicted felons seeking financial aid for their education. Grants are free money and do not need to be repaid � they provide funding to low-income college students, and individuals with felony convictions are eligible to apply.

Additionally, through the Second Chance Act, the U.S. Department of Justice funds grants for state and local organizations and nonprofits helping felons with re-entry into communities. These second-chance grants for felons could provide educational support or other opportunities to help reduce recidivism.

Read More: Pell Grants For Felons

How To Qualify for Financial Aid for College as a Convicted Felon

To qualify for financial aid for college as a convicted felon, start by completing FAFSA, which assesses your financial need. To receive the Pell Grant, you or your parents need to meet strict financial criteria, as this type of grant is only awarded to those who demonstrate significant financial need based on their income and family size.

Also, ensure you meet FAFSA eligibility requirements, such as enrolling in an accredited institution and maintaining satisfactory academic progress.

FAQs About Going To College With a Criminal Record

Navigating college with a criminal record can raise many questions. Below are some frequently asked questions that address common concerns about financial aid eligibility and clarify the educational opportunities available to students with criminal convictions.

Can a Felon Go to College?

Yes, a felon can go to college; however, it is at the college's discretion to determine acceptance. Some colleges may require applicants to disclose criminal history, which may affect acceptance. While competitive schools with low acceptance rates may not accept applicants with a criminal record, many community colleges and quality four-year schools are known to accept felons.

Can Felons Get College Financial Aid?

Yes, felons who are no longer incarcerated can receive both institutional and federal financial aid without restriction. Financial aid programs vary by college. Students with felonies must meet specific criteria to qualify for a college's aid program. In most cases, aid is awarded based on FAFSA completion, so it's important to complete this application on time.

Can a Felon Take Out Student Loans?

Yes, a felon can take out student loans to fund their education if they are no longer confined in a correctional facility. While you can find student loans for felons, these are only available to those who have completed their sentences; those still incarcerated in a federal, state, or another facility may not qualify for federal student loans as of July 2023.

What Disqualifies You From FAFSA?

Several factors can disqualify you from FAFSA eligibility. These include being in default on a federal student loan, failing to meet satisfactory academic progress, or not being a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen.

Does FAFSA Do Background Checks?

FAFSA doesn't run a background check on applicants. It's important, though, for students to honestly answer all questions on the FAFSA form.

Discover Higher Education Opportunities

If you're interested in pursuing higher education, check out the affordable college programs here on Learn.org. Contact schools that interest you to find out about financial aid options and other student support services to help you through your educational journey.