10 Online Colleges That Accept FAFSA in Georgia

Earning a degree is one of the best ways to start your dream career. However, finishing a degree program can be tough for students struggling to cover their tuition. Online programs have become a great option for college students on a budget. They help enrollees save on transportation, housing, and some on-campus fees. But sometimes, students still need financial assistance.

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) helps students qualify for grants, loans, and other financial aid to reduce costs. Many Georgia online colleges, including Savannah State University and Georgia Southern University, accept the FAFSA. Below, we'll explore the top online schools that accept financial aid. We'll also go over how to submit the FAFSA in Georiga.

10 Best Online Colleges That Accept FAFSA in Georgia

Many colleges and universities allow Georgia students to pay for online courses with help from financial aid. Explore the following list of accredited online degree programs that accept FAFSA in Georgia.

1. Mercer University

Mercer University offers fully online undergraduate and graduate degree programs. Some include:

• accounting, BBA
• communication, BA
• business analytics, MS
• marketing, BBA
• nursing, BSN, PhD

Mercer offers financial aid services to online learners via email or telephone. Online students can also file their FAFSA and use the school's financial planning resources online.

2. Middle Georgia State University

Middle Georgia State University, a school in the University System of Georgia (USG), offers online bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degree programs with short, eight-week online classes. Programs include:

• criminal justice, BS
• English, BA
• public relations, MA
• psychology, BS
• public safety, DSc

The university has earned high rankings as one of the nation's best values in public higher education. Students can receive financial aid for all classes required to complete a degree program.

3. Valdosta State University

At Valdosta State University, students can choose online undergraduate and graduate programs. Some from this USG school include:

• educational leadership, MEd
• health and physical education, MAT, MEd
• public administration, MPA, DPA
• Spanish, BA
• computer information systems, BS

Tuition rates for online students remain the same throughout their academic journey. Filling out the FAFSA form helps online learners qualify for grants, loans, and work-student opportunities.

4. Georgia State University

Georgia State University in Atlanta offers over 85 online and hybrid undergraduate (bachelor's and associate degrees) and graduate programs (doctoral and master's degrees). Online learning opportunities are available in:

• anthropology, AA
• economics, MA
• health sciences, MS
• commercial real estate, MS
• social work, AS, BSW

These online programs have accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). The university encourages all students to apply for financial aid to cover program tuition.

5. Georgia Southern University

Georgia Southern University offers flexible online undergraduate and graduate programs in areas of study like business, education, and healthcare. Programs include:

• computer science, AS, MS
• political science, BA
• sociology, BS
• instructional technology, BIT
• applied public health, MPH

Students can pursue public health and nurse practitioner doctoral degrees or enroll in online bachelor's and graduate certificate programs. Students pursuing an online education access financial aid like grants, scholarships, and loans.

6. Savannah State University

Savannah State University, like other USG schools, offers eCore. This cooperative arrangement lets USG students complete their first two college years online. eCore coursework could include:

• world history
• college algebra
• physics
• environmental science
• English composition

The university also offers an online bachelor's degree — the AACSB International-accredited Bachelor of Business Administration. Students enrolled in online programs at Savannah State are eligible for financial aid.

7. Albany State University

Albany State University is a USG school offering associate, bachelor's, and graduate programs. Degree options include:

• medical laboratory technology, AS
• organizational leadership, BS
• counselor education, MEd
• social work, MSW
• special education, MEd

Students interested in nursing can choose from an online Bachelor of Science in nursing (BSN) or Master of Science in nursing (MSN). Online learners at Albany State have access to the same financial aid options as in-person learners.

8. Kennesaw State University

Kennesaw State University offers dozens of online undergraduate and graduate degree programs. Some include:

• art and design, MA
• information technology, BS, BAS
• software engineering, BS
• business administration, MBA
• educational leadership, EdD

In-state and out-of-state online students attending Kennesaw State pay the same e-tuition. Online learners can apply for the HOPE Scholarship, grants, and other financial aid.

9. Columbus State University

Columbus State University students can choose from 39 online programs. Bachelor's and master's degrees are available in:

• general business, BBA
• nursing, BSN, MSN
• sociology, BS
• teacher leadership, MEd
• health services administration, MPA

The public university also offers a doctoral degree in curriculum and leadership. More than 1,200 students are granted scholarships totaling more than $3 million annually. Filling out the FAFSA form qualifies enrollees for grants, scholarships, and other federal aid.

10. Clayton State University

Clayton State University offers multiple bachelor's and master's degrees for online learners. Some programs include:

• administrative management, BAS
• government and law, BS
• legal studies, BS
• Spanish, BA
• supply chain analytics, MS

Clayton State online students pay eTuition, which costs less per credit hour since it excludes athletic, health, parking, and other traditional fees. Students are encouraged to fill out the FAFSA to determine their state and federal aid eligibility.

Applying for FAFSA in Georgia

Applying for federal aid in Georgia involves filling out the FAFSA form and the Georgia State Financial Application (GSFAPP). Both forms can help students qualify for Pell Grants, student loans, and institutional and private scholarships. High school seniors should complete the GSFAPP before graduating.

Eligibility

Eligibility for FAFSA in Georgia starts with meeting basic criteria that include:

• demonstrating financial need
• being a US citizen or eligible non-citizen
• having a Social Security number
• being enrolled in or accepted to an eligible degree or certificate program
• having a high school diploma or equivalent

Steps To Apply

When you're ready to apply for FAFSA financial aid, you'll take these steps:

• Create an online StudentAid.gov account.
• Collect tax forms, parents' Social Security numbers, and financial documents.
• Start the FAFSA form.
• List up to 20 colleges and career schools.
• Determine dependency status.
• Report parents' or spouse's information.
• Share financial information.
• Sign and submit FAFSA form.

You've now learned about FAFSA eligibility and what it takes to apply. Next, we'll look at some FAQs about FAFSA for colleges in Georgia.

Other Financial Aid Options for Online College in Georgia

Georgia students have access to several state-based aid programs that can be combined with FAFSA to make online education more affordable. The options below can help reduce tuition costs and support flexible learning opportunities.

HOPE Scholarship

The HOPE Scholarship rewards Georgia residents for strong academic performance in high school or college. To qualify, you must complete the FAFSA or the Georgia Student Finance Application (GSFAPP) and meet GPA and enrollment requirements.

Online learners attending eligible Georgia institutions can use HOPE funds toward tuition costs at public or private colleges. The scholarship is renewable as long as you maintain the required GPA and residency.

Zell Miller Scholarship

The Zell Miller Scholarship offers full tuition coverage for Georgia residents who graduate high school with a 3.7 GPA and meet test score requirements. Like the HOPE Scholarship, you must complete the FAFSA or GSFAPP to apply.

This scholarship applies to both in-person and online degree programs at eligible Georgia colleges. It's an excellent option for high-achieving students who want to study remotely while keeping tuition affordable.

Georgia Tuition Equalization Grant

The Georgia Tuition Equalization Grant (GTEG) helps state residents attend private colleges and universities within Georgia. You'll need to submit the FAFSA or GSFAPP to determine eligibility based on your enrollment and residency status.

Online students enrolled in participating private institutions can receive up to a set annual amount toward tuition costs. This grant helps make private online programs more accessible to Georgia residents.

FAQs About Using FAFSA for College in Georgia

Georgia residents benefit tremendously from financial aid. Learn more about FAFSA and student aid in Georgia with these frequently asked questions.

Where Can I Get Help With My FAFSA Application in Georgia?

When filling out your FAFSA application, you can visit 'FAFSA Help' to get answers to common questions. You can also chat with the virtual assistant or contact the Federal Student Aid Information Center via phone or email. If you want help in Georgia, consider contacting your school's financial aid office.

How Do I Ensure My FAFSA is Sent to Georgia Colleges?

Students must list at least one college or career/trade school when filling out the FAFSA form. The details you share on your form will be sent to each school you list. Schools will have your information within a few days of submission, though they won't always contact you immediately with an offer. To ensure your FAFSA was processed, visit your FAFSA.gov account and look for the status 'Processed Successfully.'

When Should I Submit My FAFSA for Colleges in Georgia?

The federal deadline to submit the FAFSA form is typically 11:59 pm central time (CT) around late June. However, Georgia recommends submitting the FAFSA starting January 1 of the same year.

Find an Affordable Online College in Georgia

Georgia students can make the most of both federal and state financial aid to lower the cost of online education. Explore accredited degree options through Learn.org and connect with schools that match your academic and financial goals.