10 Online Colleges That Accept FAFSA in North Carolina

Numerous colleges and universities in North Carolina accept the FAFSA and encourage online students to utilize financial aid programs. Distance education has made earning a degree more flexible for students with busy schedules. Pursuing higher education, even with online degrees, can be expensive. With the FAFSA, students can better manage the high tuition and expenses.

The following colleges in North Carolina meet the accreditation criteria and can accept the FAFSA, making online degrees even more accessible for students regardless of location.

10 Best Online Colleges That Accept FAFSA in North Carolina

Many online schools accept the FAFSA to help students afford their education. Choose from the best online colleges in North Carolina that use the FAFSA so you can affordably pursue higher education.

1. North Carolina State University

North Carolina State University provides students with comprehensive online programs in a convenient format. Online learners receive the same education as their on-campus peers but have the advantage of schedule flexibility.

2. East Carolina University

East Carolina University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges and accepts the FAFSA. It is one of the many online schools in North Carolina that offer undergraduate degrees and graduate programs through distance education.

3. University of North Carolina at Wilmington

At the University of North Carolina at Wilmington (UNCW), college students can earn bachelor's and master's degrees through online degree programs. Students who can't attend on-campus classes can benefit from the flexibility of online learning. The FAFSA, and other financial aid programs provided by UNCW, make managing the cost of attendance easier for online students.

4. Fayetteville State University

Fayetteville State University offers online courses for in-state and out-of-state students. They provide several degree completion programs for students with a 2.0 GPA or higher. Students can pay tuition with the FAFSA and other financial aid programs offered through the school.

5. Appalachian State University

Online students at Appalachian State University can earn undergraduate and graduate degrees through App State Online. The degree programs, and even certificate programs, can be completed from anywhere and classes are taught by the same faculty that teaches on-campus students.

6. University of North Carolina at Pembroke

The University of North Carolina (UNC) Pembroke offers a range of online programs for both part-time and full-time students. Degrees are offered in fields like healthcare, education, and business. UNCP accepts the FAFSA so that online students can access an affordable and high-quality education. With online programs that offer student support services like virtual tutoring and academic advising, students can reach their educational and career goals.

7. North Carolina Central University

North Carolina Central University offers a variety of online bachelor's degrees including criminal justice, business administration, and education. NCCU's online programs are designed to be both accessible and affordable. By accepting FAFSA, the university helps students manage the costs of their online education.

8. University of North Carolina at Greensboro

The University of North Carolina at Greensboro offers flexible online degree programs in areas like education and computer science. Some, like the elementary education program, lead to licensure. The online degrees, which accept the FAFSA, provide students with a flexible and affordable way to earn their degrees.

9. Western Carolina University

Students at Western Carolina University can earn degrees in their chosen fields through the flexible online programs. Aside from helping students manage tuition costs by accepting the FAFSA, there are resources like virtual advising and online tutoring to help ensure students succeed throughout their programs, even with online learning.

10. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill offers various undergraduate and graduate degrees that students can earn online. Not only do the online programs offer flexibility and convenience, but they also provide resources like career counseling and academic advising to help students succeed. They accept FAFSA to make it easier for students to afford their education and advance academically.

Applying for FAFSA in North Carolina

Meeting eligibility requirements and following the correct steps when filling out the FAFSA can help you get the most out of the available resources.

Eligibility

Students who are U.S. citizens or have eligible non-citizen status can apply for the FAFSA. The amount of aid you will receive is based on financial need. For some financial aid programs, students must have met academic or GPA requirements in high school.

Steps To Apply

College students must fill out the FAFSA each academic year to receive financial aid. This is mandatory whether you attend a private or public university, online school, or community college. These steps can help make the FAFSA application process less confusing.

Gather Your Information

When filling out the FAFSA you must provide information like your social security number, the schools you applied to or are enrolled at, income, and tax returns. Each school needs to be listed, even if you haven't decided on one yet. If you are an independent student you will use your information. If you are a dependent student, under 24, you will provide your parent's information.

Visit the FAFSA Website

When you visit the studentaid.gov website you will be prompted to make an FSA ID or sign in with an existing one. Parents of dependent students will need to create their accounts.

Once you have set this part up you can begin the application. To avoid encountering future issues, ensure you are providing accurate information.

Submit the FAFSA

When you have finished and reviewed your FAFSA, you must sign and submit it. From there, someone will review your application to determine the amount of aid you qualify for. Based on your information, you will be considered for various types of financial aid like student loans, work-study programs, scholarships, and grants.

Other Financial Aid Options for Online College in North Carolina

North Carolina residents can take advantage of several state-based programs designed to make online college more affordable. The following options can be combined with FAFSA to help reduce tuition and related expenses.

North Carolina Education Lottery Scholarship

The North Carolina Education Lottery Scholarship (NCELS) provides need-based funding to residents enrolled in eligible undergraduate programs, including online degrees. To qualify, you must complete the FAFSA and demonstrate financial need as determined by the state.

Online learners attending public or private institutions in North Carolina can use NCELS funds to pay for tuition and required fees. The award is renewable each year if you continue to meet financial and academic eligibility requirements.

North Carolina Need-Based Scholarship

The North Carolina Need-Based Scholarship (NCNBS) helps students attending private colleges in the state afford their education. Applicants must submit the FAFSA to determine eligibility based on income and enrollment status.

Online students at participating private institutions can apply these scholarship funds directly toward tuition. This program provides flexible support for those balancing education with work or family responsibilities.

Forgivable Education Loans for Service Program

The Forgivable Education Loans for Service (FELS) Program supports students who plan to work in North Carolina in fields with high workforce demand, such as nursing or education. To apply, you must complete the FAFSA and the separate FELS application through the College Foundation of North Carolina (CFNC).

Online learners who commit to working in the state after graduation may have their loans forgiven entirely. This makes FELS an appealing choice for students pursuing service-oriented careers.

FAQs About Using FAFSA for College in North Carolina

You can make more informed financial decisions when planning for your degree by reviewing these common questions about the Free Application For Federal Student Aid.

What Happens After I Submit the FAFSA in North Carolina?

After you submit the FAFSA in North Carolina, the information you provided is sent to the colleges you listed. They will then prepare a financial aid offer based on your eligibility and you will receive your financial aid.

To continue receiving financial aid throughout the academic year, students must maintain enrollment at least part-time.

What Other Financial Aid Options Are Available in North Carolina Besides FAFSA?

Besides the FAFSA, North Carolina has its state-specific grants and scholarships. The North Carolina Education Lottery Scholarship (NCELS) and the North Carolina Need-Based Scholarship (NCNBS) are two options that provide financial help to eligible students.

Many North Carolina colleges offer institutional scholarships based on academic performance or financial need. It is also important to note that North Carolina residents pay in-state tuition rates, which are lower than the tuition rates out-of-state students pay.

What Is the Deadline for Submitting the FAFSA in North Carolina?

The deadline for submitting the FAFSA is June 30 each year. However, some state and university-based financial aid programs in North Carolina have earlier deadlines. Submitting your FAFSA when the application opens in October can help you maximize your financial aid opportunities.

It's also important to meet the deadline for your chosen college, as this can increase your chances of receiving institutional aid. Submitting the FAFSA before the deadline ensures you don't miss out on financial aid resources.

Do I Need To Renew My FAFSA Each Year for North Carolina Colleges?

Yes. Renew your FAFSA yearly to continue receiving federal financial aid. Renewing your FAFSA on time yearly ensures you remain eligible for financial help throughout your college education. Reviewing your financial aid options each year helps you take full advantage of all available resources, including scholarships and grants that don't require repayment.

Find an Affordable Online College in North Carolina

North Carolina offers generous financial aid opportunities to help make earning an online degree more affordable. Explore accredited online programs on Learn.org and connect with schools to discover options that fit your academic goals and budget.