What is FASFA

 The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the form students complete to apply for financial aid for college. Filling it out gives you access to federal grants, work-study opportunities, and student loans. Many states and colleges also use FAFSA information to award scholarships and additional aid.

Completing the FAFSA is free, and it opens each year on October 1. The earlier you apply, the better your chances of receiving the maximum aid available. Families will need tax information, income details, and school lists to complete the form.

What You’ll Need to Complete the FAFSA

1. FSA ID – A username and password for both the student and parent to sign the FAFSA electronically.
2. Social Security Numbers – For both student and parent (or Alien Registration Number for eligible non-citizens).
3. Federal Tax Returns – Previous year’s tax information (student and parent).
4. W-2 Forms & Records of Income – Details of earnings not listed on the tax return.
5. Bank Statements & Investment Records – Savings, checking, and investments (if applicable).
6. List of Colleges – Schools you want to receive your FAFSA information (you can add up to 20).

The Florida Bright Futures Scholarship is a state-funded program that rewards students for high academic achievement in high school. It can help pay for tuition and fees at eligible Florida public and private colleges and universities. 

Types of Awards:

• Florida Academic Scholars (FAS) – Highest award, requires top GPA, test scores, and community service.
• Florida Medallion Scholars (FMS) – Requires strong GPA and test scores.

How to Apply:

1. Complete the FAFSA – Bright Futures uses your FAFSA information for eligibility verification. 
2. Submit the Florida Financial Aid Application – Through the Florida Student Financial Aid Portal (FASFAPortal.org).
3. Track Your Eligibility – Your high school counselor and the Florida Department of Education will confirm your eligibility.

 General Eligibility Requirements:

• Graduation: Graduate from a Florida high school with a standard diploma or its equivalent 
• Residency: Be a Florida resident and a U.S. citizen or eligible noncitizen.
• Enrollment: Enroll in a degree or certificate program at an eligible Florida postsecondary institution.
• Enrollment Status: Be enrolled for at least six non-remedial semester credit hours per term.
• Application: Submit the Florida Financial Aid Application (FFAA) during your senior year between October 1, 2025, and August 31, 2026 
• Test Scores: Achieve the required standardized test scores by August 31, 2026.
• Service Hours: Complete the required number of volunteer service hours, paid work hours, or a combination totaling the required hours.

Required High School Coursework (16 credits): 

• English: 4 credits (3 must include substantial writing)
• Mathematics: 4 credits (at or above the Algebra I level)
• Natural Science: 3 credits (2 must have substantial laboratory)
• Social Science: 3 credits
• World Language: 2 credits (sequential, in the same language)
   

Note: These coursework requirements align with the State University System admission requirements. 

Additional Notes:

• Weighted GPA for Bright Futures is calculated based on these 16 core courses.
   

Tip: Apply early and check deadlines. Bright Futures awards are renewable each year based on college GPA.