10 Online Colleges That Accept FAFSA in Florida

Florida students who want to pursue higher education at an online university or college can pay for their degree with financial aid at one of the many colleges in Florida that accept the FAFSA. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) provides federal and state funding that can make earning a degree more accessible with aid programs like grants, scholarships, and loans.

While most accredited online colleges accept the FAFSA and encourage students to utilize federal aid, it's not always the case. Some schools don't allow students to use federal aid programs. It is always a good idea to confirm whether or not the FAFSA is accepted so you can better plan for your online degree program.

10 Best Online Colleges That Accept FAFSA in Florida

Find a degree program aligning with your academic and career goals by exploring the best online colleges in Florida accepting the FAFSA.

1. Florida State University

Florida State University (FSU) provides an affordable and convenient way for students to pursue higher education. Aside from accepting the FAFSA, FSU helps students meet application requirements and even provides its institutional scholarships,

During their degree programs, online students are taught by experienced faculty and supported by academic advisors. Due to the flexibility of online asynchronous classes, students can complete their coursework and earn their degrees from anywhere.

2. University of Central Florida

The University of Central Florida (UCF) offers several online degree programs. Aside from the various certificate programs and associate degrees, UCF students can also earn a Bachelor of Science in nursing. The school's library has online resources for online students and the same tutoring and support services on-campus students have.

3. Florida Atlantic University

Students who attend an online program at Florida Atlantic University(FAU) receive a similar education to that of on-campus students. They have access to the same student support services and all courses are taught by the university's experienced research faculty. With an online education, FAU students can benefit from more affordable tuition and schedule flexibility. They can earn bachelor's and master's degrees in various fields, from computer science and exercise science to public management and nursing.

4. Florida A&M University

Florida A&M University (FAMU) is an accredited school with a wide selection of online degrees. Aside from its bachelor's programs, FAMU also has online programs that offer graduate degrees

With 100% online coursework and flexible class schedules, students can pursue nursing, psychology, and criminal justice degrees, among many others. FAMU's online programs are a convenient and affordable way for students to earn a degree and advance their careers.

5. University of Florida

The University of Florida provides accredited and affordable online programs. Numerous online bachelor's degrees are available, from healthcare to information technology. For graduate students, there are online master's and doctorate degrees.

Regardless of where online students complete their coursework, they are still taught by the same faculty and receive the same education as their on-campus peers in Gainesville, FL. Student and career services support students during their online courses.

6. Everglades University

Everglades University is an accredited, non-profit school where students can earn their bachelor's or master's degrees online. Programs range from sustainability to construction management to provide students with a career-focused education. To help make higher education more accessible, they encourage students to utilize financial aid programs like the FAFSA to cover tuition costs and other fees.

7. Saint Leo University

The online programs at Saint Leo University allow students to earn degrees and prepare for their careers regardless of location. While they accept the FAFSA for students in the U.S., international online students aren't eligible to receive federal financial aid.

Qualified and experienced instructors teach their Saint Leo University students. They can earn associate, bachelor's, and master's degrees. The degrees have a liberal arts focus and are available in many subjects including business administration, computer science, and accounting.

8. Nova Southeastern University

Nova Southeastern University (NSU) is a private accredited university. In addition to its eight campus locations, NSU offers online degrees through distance education. They provide a convenient way for both in-state and out-of-state students to attend the programs.

The financial aid office is available to help students understand tuition rates and fill out the FAFSA.

9. Miami Dade College

At Miami Dade College (MDC), students can earn their degrees affordably through MDC's online programs. They offer four-year bachelor's degrees and a two-year Associate in Arts and Associate in Science degrees. They accept the FAFSA and have resources like virtual workshops to help students fill out the application and get the most out of their financial aid.

10. Daytona State College

Daytona State College's online degree programs are taught synchronously. Learners need to attend set class times through the distance learning portal. However, they can be located anywhere in the U.S. Students can use financial aid like the FAFSA to earn bachelor's degrees, associate degrees, and certificates.

Applying for FAFSA in Florida

College students planning to attend undergraduate or graduate programs at in-person or online schools must apply for financial aid through the FAFSA.

Eligibility

To be eligible for federal aid through the FAFSA, you must meet certain criteria. You must be a U.S. citizen or an eligible noncitizen with a high school diploma or a GED certificate. Some FAFSA programs determine eligibility based on merit or financial need, so there can be GPA or income requirements.

Residency requirements must be met to qualify because the FAFSA includes state-funded aid. This usually means you must be a state resident for at least a year to receive help from a Florida college.

Steps To Apply

You can follow these steps to apply for the FAFSA on the studentaid.gov website.

1. Access the FAFSA

Go to the FAFSA website and create your FSA ID to apply for financial aid. This allows you to access your account whenever you need to. Your parent or guardian must make an account if you are a dependent student.

2. Gather Information

There are a lot of questions on the FAFSA, so having all the documents you may need with you can be helpful. This can include tax returns, social security numbers, and bank balances.

3. List On-Campus and Online Schools

When you fill out the FAFSA, you must include the school you are attending or all of the schools you are deciding between. You need to find your school's FAFSA code. This is normally listed on their website.

4. Provide Your Information

The application will ask you questions about your income and financials. If you are an independent student, you fill out the FAFSA with your information. Your parent's information will be used on the form if you are a dependent student.

5. Submit the Application

After completing the whole form, you can sign and submit your FAFSA. Once accepted, you must see your financial aid options and the amounts you were awarded.

Other Financial Aid Options for Online College in Florida

In addition to FAFSA, Florida students can apply for several state-based financial aid programs that make online college more accessible. The options below can help reduce out-of-pocket costs and expand opportunities for flexible learning.

Florida Student Assistance Grant

The Florida Student Assistance Grant (FSAG) provides need-based aid to eligible Florida residents enrolled in degree programs at participating colleges and universities. To qualify, you must complete the FAFSA and meet the state's financial need requirements.

Online students attending approved Florida institutions can use this grant to cover tuition and required fees. The FSAG is renewable each year if you maintain satisfactory academic progress and continue to meet eligibility criteria.

Florida Bright Futures Scholarship Program

The Florida Bright Futures Scholarship rewards academic achievement and is available to both on-campus and online learners. Students who meet GPA, test score, and community service requirements may earn funding for eligible Florida programs.

Even if you study remotely, this merit-based scholarship can cover a portion of your tuition costs at public or private institutions. Bright Futures funds can also be combined with federal and institutional aid for greater affordability.

First Generation Matching Grant

The First Generation Matching Grant supports Florida students who are the first in their families to attend college. Eligible applicants must complete the FAFSA and demonstrate financial need to qualify for matched state and institutional funds.

This grant can be used by online learners at participating public universities across Florida. It's a meaningful option for students seeking additional help while pursuing a degree that fits their schedule and family responsibilities.

FAQs About Using FAFSA for College in Florida

If you plan to earn an online degree at a Florida college, this section can clarify some common questions about using the FAFSA to pay for your education.

Is Florida Financial Aid the Same as FAFSA?

Florida financial aid is not the same as the FAFSA. It offers state-funded financial assistance like tuition waivers, grants, and scholarships. The eligibility requirements vary but are often based on factors like:

• state residency status
• financial need
• high school GPAs

How Can I Tell If a Florida Online College Accepts FAFSA?

One of the main ways to tell if a Florida online college accepts the FAFSA is by checking its accreditation status. In general, if the Department of Education accredits a college or university,

When Should I Submit the FAFSA for Florida Colleges?

The FAFSA deadline is generally in June of the upcoming academic year regardless of whether you complete your degree with on-campus or online learning. Some Florida colleges have deadlines so in-state and out-of-state students should submit their applications as soon as possible.

What Types of Financial Aid Can I Receive in Florida Based on the FAFSA?

Based on the FAFSA, Florida students can receive various financial aid programs. After applying, students can access federal student loans and work-study programs. The FAFSA includes both federal and state-based funding. This can be awarded in grants, scholarships, and other forms of tuition assistance.

Find an Affordable Online College in Florida

Florida residents have access to generous financial aid options that make online college degrees more affordable. Explore accredited online programs through Learn.org and reach out to schools directly to find funding that supports your education goals.