For many Florida students, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the means to acquiring financial aid for college.
This federal program awards grants, scholarships, work-study programs, and loans to eligible students, making higher education a more attainable goal.
But what are the specific FAFSA requirements in Florida? This guide will answer all your questions and help you through the FAFSA application process smoothly.
FAFSA Requirements in Florida
The FAFSA has the same basic requirements nationwide, but there may be additional state-specific requirements or programs.
In Florida, there are no additional requirements on top of the federal ones. Here’s what you’ll need to complete your FAFSA:
- Federal Student Aid (FSA) ID: Both you and your parent(s) (if you are a dependent student) will need an FSA ID to sign electronically. You can apply for a free FSA ID at https://studentaid.gov/fsa-id/create-account/launch.
- Social Security Number: You will need your Social Security number to complete the FAFSA. If you are not a U.S. citizen, you may still be eligible for federal student aid, but you will need to meet additional eligibility requirements.
- Tax Information: You will need to provide your tax return information from the previous two years. The FAFSA allows you to transfer your tax information directly from the IRS using the Data Retrieval Tool (DRT).
- Financial Information: You will need to provide information about your assets, such as cash, savings, and investments. You may also need to provide information about your parent(s)’ assets if you are a dependent student.
- School Information: You will need to list the schools you are applying to on your FAFSA application. Each school you list will receive your FAFSA information.
How Do I Get My FAFSA in Florida?
There are two main ways to complete your FAFSA in Florida:
- Online: The Federal Student Aid website is the most convenient way to complete your FAFSA. You can access the application form, get help with specific questions, and submit your application electronically.
- Paper Application: You can download a paper FAFSA application from the Federal Student Aid website and mail it in. However, the online application is generally faster and easier.
It’s recommended to submit your FAFSA as early as possible after October 1st of the year preceding your enrollment.
This will ensure you are considered for all types of federal aid, and you may also be eligible for state aid programs in Florida.
What is the Income Requirement for Financial Aid in Florida?
The FAFSA uses a formula called the Expected Family Contribution (EFC) to determine your financial need for aid.
Your EFC is not an income cutoff, but rather an estimate of how much your family is expected to contribute to your college education.
Students with lower EFCs will generally be eligible for more financial aid.
Florida also has its own state financial aid programs, and these programs may have their own income eligibility requirements.
You can find more information about Florida state financial aid programs by visiting the Florida Department of Education website https://www.fldoe.org/schools/higher-ed/fl-college-system/student-services/financial-aid.stml.
Who Qualifies for Financial Assistance in Florida?
In addition to the federal FAFSA requirements, Florida has its own state financial aid programs.
To qualify for state aid in Florida, you must meet the following basic requirements:
- Be a Florida resident for at least 12 consecutive months prior to the term you are applying for aid.
- Be a U.S. citizen or an eligible noncitizen.
- Be enrolled or accepted for enrollment at an eligible Florida college or university.
- Demonstrate financial need as determined by the FAFSA.
There may be some other requirements for specific state aid programs in Florida.
You can find more information about eligibility requirements and how to apply for state aid programs by visiting the Florida Department of Education website or contacting the financial aid office at the schools you are applying to.