Online Schools That Accept FAFSA And How To Get Financial Aid for 2025

by Alex Hillsberg , MA

Student Finance & Loan Expert

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The dream of a college degree can be clouded by financial concerns. According to a 2024 report, the average total cost of tuition and fees for a four-year public institution is over $22,000 per year. For many, that price tag seems insurmountable. However, there's a solution that offers flexibility and affordability: online degrees.

As a seasoned career planner, I prepared a guide about online schools that accept FAFSA and the types of programs covered by it. I also included information that can be helpful to first-time applicants like repayment options, FAFSA eligibility, and how to apply for federal aid.  

Key Things You Should Know About Online Schools That Accept FAFSA

• To know if an online school is FAFSA-approved, students should focus on two factors: Title IV status and accreditation.
• Only 35.6% of high school seniors have completed the FAFSA, which is significantly lower than the previous year's 48.2%.
• Over 17.5 million students apply for FAFSA annually.
• Only 5.8 million students, as of March 2024, have applied for FAFSA.
• Students may include up to 20 schools on their online FAFSA application.

Table of Contents

1. Which online schools accept FAFSA?
2. What types of online programs qualify for FAFSA?
3. How does one find a FAFSA-approved online school?
4. Who is eligible to apply for FAFSA?
5. How does an online school student apply for federal aid?
6. What other types of financial aid are available to online students besides FAFSA?
7. What are the main benefits and drawbacks of using FAFSA to pursue an online degree?
8. What private student loan options exist for online learners?
9. What repayment options are available to online students?
10. What factors should you consider before choosing an online school that accepts FAFSA?
11. Are accelerated pathways a smart choice for fast-tracking your online degree?
12. How can you troubleshoot common FAFSA application challenges?
13. Are affordable online colleges available for FAFSA-eligible students in California?
14. What financial options are available if you're a parent with challenging credit?
15. What are the key FAFSA deadlines and timeline strategies?
16. How can you determine the best tuition value for your online education?
17. What factors should you consider when comparing online bachelor's degree programs?
18. What kind of FAFSA support and guidance is available for online students?
19. Which loan option best suits your financial future?
20. What is the long-term career value of an online degree with FAFSA support?
21. How can you cover past due tuition?
22. Other Things You Should Know About Online Schools That Accept FAFSA

Which online schools accept FAFSA?

1. American Public University 

American Public University (APU) is a private, online university system headquartered in West Virginia. It offers associate's, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees through a variety of programs focused on working adults, with a special emphasis on those in the military and public service sectors. Known for its affordability and flexible online format, APU caters to students who may not be able to attend a traditional on-campus program.

Tuition per Credit Hour:

• Bachelor's degrees: $250 to $285
• Master's degrees: $250 to $370

2. University of Arizona Global Campus

The University of Arizona Global Campus (UAGC) is a public online university affiliated with the University of Arizona. UAGC offers a wide range of associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees in over 50 programs, all designed for working adults and delivered entirely online. It's a good option for those seeking an accredited online education with flexible schedules.

Tuition per Credit Hour:  

• Bachelor's degrees: $510
• Master's degrees: $665 to $740
• Doctoral degrees: $1,082

3. Arizona State University – Online

Arizona State University – Online offers comprehensive and flexible online degree programs designed to provide high-quality education to students worldwide. Known for its innovation and academic excellence, ASU Online features over 200 degree programs across various disciplines, supported by the same renowned faculty who teach on campus. The university aims to provide a dynamic and engaging online learning experience, ensuring that students receive the same rigorous education and support as on-campus students.

Tuition per Credit Hour: 

• Bachelor's degrees: $561 to $661
• Master's degrees: $543 to $1,343

4. Capella University

Capella University caters to working adults seeking career advancement. This accredited online university offers various programs in business, healthcare, education, and technology. Through flexible learning options like GuidedPath and FlexPath, Capella personalizes the educational journey for each student. Focused on practical skills and strong support services, Capella empowers students to achieve their academic and professional goals.

Tuition per Credit Hour: 

• Bachelor's degrees: $357 to $415
• Master's degrees: $440 to $815
• Doctoral degrees: $545 to $810

5. Excelsior University

Excelsior University is an accredited, nonprofit online institution that offers degree programs designed to meet the needs of adult learners and working professionals. It provides flexible and affordable education in fields such as business, nursing, technology, and liberal arts, allowing students to transfer credits and leverage prior learning and work experience. Excelsior is known for its strong commitment to accessibility, student support, and career-oriented education.

Tuition per Credit Hour: 

• Bachelor's degrees: $510
• Graduate degrees: $695

6. University of Maryland – Global Campus

The University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC) is a public university specializing in online and flexible education for working adults and busy professionals. UMGC offers a wide range of bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees, as well as certificates, all designed to fit a student's work and life commitments. With a distinguished faculty and a focus on in-demand fields, UMGC empowers students to advance their careers and achieve their educational goals.

Tuition per Credit Hour: 

• Bachelor's degrees: $306 to $625
• Master's degrees: $504 to $694
• Doctoral degrees: $1,087

7. University of Phoenix

The University of Phoenix offers a variety of online and in-person degree programs for people looking to advance their education and careers. They provide flexible class schedules and support for students who are balancing work or other commitments. The university aims to help students gain the skills and knowledge needed for success in fields like business, healthcare, and technology.

Tuition per Credit Hour: 

• Bachelor's degrees: $398
• Master's degrees: $698

8. Purdue University Global

A Purdue University affiliate, Purdue University Global is a public online university catering to working professionals. It delivers a comprehensive selection of undergraduate and graduate degrees in career-relevant fields like business, information technology, and healthcare. The university's flexible online format empowers students to pursue academic advancement while balancing work and personal commitments.

Tuition per Credit Hour: 

• Bachelor's degrees: $371
• Graduate degrees: $420 to $700

9. Southern New Hampshire University

Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) offers high-quality, affordable programs for learners at all stages. This private, non-profit university boasts a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degrees in in-demand fields like business, education, and liberal arts. Understanding the needs of busy individuals, SNHU provides flexible learning options, including accelerated eight-week courses, to help students seamlessly integrate their education with work and personal lives.

Tuition per Credit Hour: 

• Bachelor's degrees: $320
• Graduate degrees: $627
• Cohort-based program: $400

10. Western Governors University

Western Governors University (WGU) is a unique, competency-based online university designed specifically for working adults. Instead of semesters and credits, WGU focuses on students mastering course materials at their own pace. This allows for accelerated completion times and keeps tuition costs low, making WGU a good option for busy professionals seeking an affordable online degree.

Tuition per Credit Hour: 

• Bachelor's annual tuition: $7,452
• Master's annual tuition: $8,295

Accreditation is a primary consideration for FAFSA eligibility, thus students should strictly go with postsecondary institutions that have been accredited by an organization recognized by the United States Department of Education. Accessibility is a key feature given that over 17.5 million students apply for FAFSA annually. 

Here's What Graduates Have to Say About Online Schools That Accept FAFSA

"My small town didn't have the specialized computer science program I craved. Filling out the FAFSA opened doors to amazing online options. The professors were industry veterans, and the online format allowed me to network with classmates from across the country. Now, I'm working at a dream tech startup." - Freya

"When I decided to go back to school, I was worried about the cost, but the FAFSA application process opened up a world of possibilities. The financial aid I received through FAFSA enabled me to enroll in an accredited online program that fit my budget and schedule. The flexibility of the online format allowed me to continue working while pursuing my degree. I'm grateful for the support FAFSA provided, which made my educational journey possible." - Evelyn

"Going back to school after years in the workforce felt daunting. But FAFSA made online learning affordable, and the accelerated program allowed me to finish my business degree in a year. The convenience of online classes was key, and the professors were flexible with my work travel. Now, I'm finally pursuing my entrepreneurial passion." - Elias

What types of online programs qualify for FAFSA?

To qualify for the FAFSA, a program should have valid accreditation from an agency recognized by the Department of Education, since it symbolizes high education quality. Here are the general types of online programs that are usually covered by this type of federal aid and offered by online schools that accept FAFSA: 

• Accredited Degree Programs. These are programs that lead to an associate, bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree and are offered by schools that are accredited by recognized accrediting agencies. 
• Accredited Certificate Programs. Certificate programs that are accredited and designed to provide specialized training or skills in a particular field may also qualify for FAFSA. These programs usually need to be at least one academic year in length. 
• Hybrid Programs. Programs that combine online coursework with some in-person requirements may qualify for FAFSA, provided they are offered by accredited institutions. 
• Title IV Eligible Programs. Programs that are eligible for Title IV federal student aid funds, which include various degrees and certificate programs, can qualify for FAFSA. 
• Non-Degree Programs. In some cases, non-degree programs that lead to a professional certification or are part of a degree-granting program can qualify if they meet the eligibility criteria set by the Department of Education.

How does one find a FAFSA-approved online school?

To know if an online school is FAFSA-approved, students should focus on two factors: Title IV school status and accreditation. Only programs and schools that qualify for both are eligible for FAFSA.

Here is what students can do:

• Check the Title IV Database. The Department of Education maintains a comprehensive database of accredited schools and programs. This resource enables students to search for institutions by location, program type, and accreditation status. To confirm FAFSA eligibility, one should look specifically for the designation of "Title IV participating school." Many colleges are required to display their Federal School Code on their website, which can be used for verification within the database.
• Leverage the Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs (DAPIP). Verifying an institution's accreditation through the DAPIP database brings a sense of assurance. Learners are advised to search for their school's name in the field provided and check its accreditation status, and the accrediting agency to ensure it is recognized by the Department of Education. While accreditation is a crucial step, it does not guarantee FAFSA eligibility. Make sure to double-check the Title IV participation status. 
• Contact the financial aid office. For the most definitive answer, students can directly contact the financial aid office of their online institution. The officers in that department can confirm the school's participation in the federal financial aid program and address any specific questions students would have.

Who is eligible to apply for FAFSA?

Studying at online schools that accept FAFSA does not automatically qualify learners for the said mode of federal aid. For students to qualify for the FAFSA, they must be from the United States, exhibit financial need, and currently enrolled in an accredited program. Let us go into the general qualifications: 

• U.S. Citizenship or Eligible Non-Citizen Status. Being a U.S. citizen, permanent resident ("green card" holder), or having a qualifying immigration status is typically required. 
• Enrollment Status. Students must be enrolled or accepted for enrollment in a degree or certificate program at a participating college, career, or trade school. 
• Financial Need (for need-based aid). While not always a requirement, demonstrating financial need through the FAFSA application increases the chances of receiving grants and other need-based aid. 
• No Income Cut-Off. Contrary to popular belief, there is no single income limit for federal aid. Factors like family size and year in school affect the aid awarded. 
• Children of Fallen Service Members. Students whose parents died serving in the U.S. armed forces after 9/11 may be eligible for increased Pell Grant funding or additional Iraq and Afghanistan Service Grants. 
• Students with Disabilities. Students with intellectual disabilities may qualify for Pell Grants, Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants, and Work-Study programs under specific circumstances. 
• Homeless Students. While no dedicated program exists, homeless students can receive aid if they meet general eligibility requirements. 
• Students in Foster Care. Like homeless students, those in or who have been in foster care can qualify for federal aid if they meet general eligibility criteria.
• Criminal Convictions. Incarceration can impact a student's eligibility for some federal aid programs. 
• Dependency Status. Dependency status on the FAFSA form can be affected by homelessness or foster care status. Refer to the FAFSA website for details.

How does an online school student apply for federal aid?

Applying for FAFSA is straightforward but some details can confuse first-time applicants. The application process for online education financial aid is similar to that of traditional programs but there are things that learners should take note of.  

Students of online schools that accept FAFSA can follow this simple step-by-step process: 

1. Obtain FSA ID. This unique login allows access to the online portal and signing of the FAFSA. Dependent students will need a parent's FSA ID as well. Students can obtain their ID on StudentAid.gov. 
2. Gather Documents. Prepare Social Security numbers, tax returns, and other financial documents (the IRS Data Retrieval Tool might help with tax info). 
3. Complete FAFSA. Apply online on StudentAid.gov typically between October 1st and June 30th of the following year (e.g., June 30, 2025 for 2024-2025). Students may include up to 20 schools on their online application to receive their aid information. 
4. Review SAR. After submission, a Student Aid Report (SAR) will arrive. Check it for accuracy to avoid delays in financial aid awarding. 
5. Accept Aid. Following college acceptance, a financial aid award letter will detail one's aid options (Pell Grants, loans, etc.). Choose which aid to accept; students are not required to take the full amount offered.

The chart below shows the distribution of federal grant aid based on the annual income of households. 

What other types of financial aid are available to online students besides FAFSA?

Students are not limited to online schools that accept FAFSA and federal aid when looking to finance their education or pay off loans. In fact, several viable options are available to them. 

• Scholarships. Scholarships do not need to be repaid after leaving school. They can be merit- or need-based and are available through schools or state programs. Scholarships are also frequently provided by private and public organizations at both local and national levels. 
• Grants. Grants generally do require repayment. They are provided through state and federal programs, schools, or private organizations. Money is often awarded based on a student's financial needs. 
• Private Student Loans. Private student loans require good credit and consistent income, or a co-signer who meets those requirements. The principal balance must be repaid over time, along with interest charges. These loans are offered by private institutions such as banks, online lenders, and sometimes through online schools. 
• Other Sources. Students can resort to crowdfunding, freelancing, taking on part-time jobs, community fund-raisers, and other creative means to come up with funds.

What are the main benefits and drawbacks of using FAFSA to pursue an online degree?

Although FAFSA should be prioritized by online students given the number and flexibility of options it provides, it is important to know some of its limitations, especially when it comes to the needs of distance learners.

I've listed down three of its main advantages and disadvantages: 

Benefits

• Federal Aid Eligibility. FAFSA unlocks access to federal grants and subsidized student loans, which offer lower interest rates and potentially better repayment terms compared to private loans. 
• Simplified Application Process. FAFSA serves as a single application for federal student aid, streamlining the process compared to applying for individual scholarships or grants. 
• Need-Based Aid. FAFSA considers financial need when awarding grants, making online education more accessible for students with limited financial resources.

Drawbacks

• Program Eligibility. Not all online programs qualify for federal financial aid. Check with your school's financial aid office to ensure your program is eligible before applying for FAFSA. 
• Verification Process Duration. Sometimes, the FAFSA application process can involve additional steps for verification, potentially delaying the receipt of financial aid. 
• Limited Aid for Non-Degree Programs. FAFSA typically has limitations for non-degree or certificate programs offered online.

The rollout of the new FAFSA in 2024 has not been ideal, with errors plaguing the process. As such, only 5.8 million students, as of March 2024, have applied. This is a far cry from the yearly average of more than 17.5 million. However, the applications are expected to pick up when the kinks in the application process have been ironed out. 

What private student loan options exist for online learners?

While FAFSA is a cornerstone for many students seeking financial aid, private student loans can also serve as a valuable resource for online learners needing additional funding. Private loans often come with flexible terms and cater to a wide range of financial profiles, including those with little to no credit history. For instance, some lenders specifically offer loans for college students with no credit, which can be a lifeline for students starting their academic journey without a substantial credit background.

When considering private loans, it’s essential to evaluate key factors such as interest rates, repayment terms, and any associated fees. Unlike federal loans, which are uniform across the board, private loans vary significantly between lenders. Many online learners prefer private loans when federal aid doesn’t fully cover their tuition costs or when they’re looking for more tailored repayment plans.

Additionally, students can explore options like co-signer loans to secure better terms, especially if their credit history or income is limited. Credit unions, banks, and online lenders often provide a range of options geared toward student needs. However, borrowers must scrutinize the fine print and ensure that the loan aligns with their long-term financial goals.

Ultimately, combining FAFSA assistance with carefully selected private loan options can empower online students to finance their education effectively while maintaining financial stability.

What repayment options are available to online students?

Students of online schools that accept FAFSA have plenty of ways to repay loans, ranging from standard repayment to obtaining private loans. Here are some of their foremost options:  

• Standard & Graduated Repayment. Fixed or graduated payments over 10 years; ideal for those expecting steady income growth. 
• Extended Repayment. Extends repayment to 25 years for larger loans, potentially lowering monthly payments but increasing total interest. 
• Income-Driven Repayment (IDR) Plans. Base payments on a borrower's income and family size, with potential forgiveness after 20-25 years. 
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF). Forgives remaining loan balance after qualifying work in public service. 
• Teacher Loan Forgiveness. Up to $17,500 forgiven for teachers in low-income schools. 
• Military Service Benefits. May offer special repayment options and interest rate caps. 
• Loan Consolidation. Simplifies repayment but may extend the term and increase total interest. 
• Deferment & Forbearance. Allows temporary postponement or reduction of payments for hardship situations. 
• Private Loan Repayment. Terms vary by lender, often with less flexibility than federal options. Review your lender's specific terms carefully.

What factors should you consider before choosing an online school that accepts FAFSA?

When choosing a program, students should be mindful of its accreditation, curriculum, and financial aid options, among others. The goal is to not just find a school that accepts FAFSA but also to enter a program that potentially leads to the best possible professional outcomes.   

I encourage students to consider the following factors:

• Accreditation. Verification of the school's accreditation by a reputable Department of Education-recognized agency is paramount. This ensures a quality education and the legitimacy of your future degree. The Department of Education website provides a tool to check accreditation status. 
• Financial Aid Options. While there are many online schools that accept FAFSA, the types and amounts of aid offered can vary significantly. Research each school's financial aid options thoroughly. The FAFSA estimator can provide a preliminary idea of potential aid eligibility. 
• Academic Program Alignment. Ensure the program aligns with your career goals and interests. Research the curriculum, faculty expertise, and program outcomes such as graduation and job placement rates. 
• Flexibility and Support Services. Evaluate how well the program's schedule and delivery format mesh with your lifestyle. Can you manage coursework alongside work and personal commitments? Investigate the school's support services for online learners, including tutoring, academic advising, and technical support. 
• Cost-Value Balance. Compare tuition, fees, and any applicable living expenses across potential schools. Consider the program's overall value in relation to its cost. Does the program's reputation, job placement rates, and career outcomes justify the investment? 
• Student Reviews and Outcomes. Read reviews from current and past students to gain insight into the online learning experience offered by the school. Research the program's graduation rates and how graduates fare in the job market.

Are accelerated pathways a smart choice for fast-tracking your online degree?

Online learners aiming to complete their education swiftly can explore accelerated programs that condense curriculum delivery without sacrificing academic quality. These pathways leverage modular course structures, competency-based progression, and strategic credit transfers, thereby minimizing the duration and cost of degree completion. Institutions offering these options often integrate flexible schedules that align with professional and personal commitments, fostering faster entry into the workforce. For further insights into such streamlined options, consider the benefits of an accelerated online associate's degree.

How can you troubleshoot common FAFSA application challenges?

When facing FAFSA application issues, verify that all personal and financial details are entered accurately and that you meet the required deadlines. Check for common data entry errors and review the document requirements to ensure that all necessary information is submitted. Utilize official online resources and FAQs to diagnose error messages, and don’t hesitate to contact your institution’s financial aid office for personalized assistance. For students pursuing advanced degrees with a streamlined process, consider exploring options like the easiest PhD without dissertation to align your academic pursuits with efficient financial aid strategies.

Are affordable online colleges available for FAFSA-eligible students in California?

California residents have access to unique state initiatives that, when combined with federal aid, can make online education especially cost-effective. Prospective students should assess tuition structures, state-funded grant programs, and specific financial support policies that distinguish various institutions. Utilizing resources like online colleges that accept FAFSA in California can streamline the decision-making process by highlighting options that balance affordable tuition with robust FAFSA support. Consider evaluating credit transfer agreements, tailored scholarship opportunities, and comprehensive support services as part of a strategic review to ensure an optimal educational investment.

What financial options are available if you're a parent with challenging credit?

Parents facing credit challenges can explore alternative funding avenues to supplement traditional FAFSA aid without overlapping with standard private loan offerings. Review options such as specialized financing programs that cater specifically to credit-challenged applicants, including college loans for parents with bad credit. Careful evaluation of interest rates, repayment terms, and any associated fees is essential to ensure that the chosen financial product aligns with long-term fiscal planning and academic goals.

What are the key FAFSA deadlines and timeline strategies?

Understanding critical FAFSA deadlines is essential for online students to secure timely financial aid. Key milestones include the opening date for FAFSA applications, priority submission periods, and final cutoff dates which can vary by state and institution. Meeting these deadlines not only speeds up financial processing but also strengthens your financial planning for tuition and associated expenses. Use digital calendar alerts and automated school notifications to stay on track, and review official resources to confirm deadlines each academic year. Additionally, consider strategies and resources like How fast can you get student loans? to bridge any unexpected funding gaps efficiently.

How can you determine the best tuition value for your online education?

When evaluating online schools that accept FAFSA, a detailed comparison of tuition rates and additional fees is essential. Assessing the overall cost-effectiveness helps to identify programs that offer robust education without hidden expenses. In this process, consider both the upfront tuition per credit hour and potential ancillary costs. Rely on independent research and verified data to understand the true value of each institution’s offerings. To support informed decision-making, refer to resources like the cheapest per credit hour online college which provides an objective breakdown of affordable tuition options while maintaining academic quality.

What factors should you consider when comparing online bachelor's degree programs?

Evaluate each program’s curriculum design, technological infrastructure, and student support mechanisms to ensure the course meets your professional and personal objectives. Scrutinize accreditation, cost transparency, and financial aid integration to make an informed decision. Additionally, consider program pacing and completion rates, as accelerated options can enhance career entry timelines. For an objective analysis of program efficiency, reference our guide on the fastest bachelor degree, which details competitive degree options and aligns with strategic financial planning.

What kind of FAFSA support and guidance is available for online students?

Students of online schools that accept FAFSA have plenty of resources for support and guidance regarding the FAFSA, from the FAFSA website to the portals of online schools. These help eliminate the guesswork and can bring funds to students in need.

After all, as of April 26, 2024, only 35.6% of high school seniors have completed the FAFSA, which is significantly lower than the previous year's 48.2%. Getting FAFSA support to those in need potentially raises the completion rate. 

The means of FAFSA support and guidance include the following: 

• Federal Student Aid Website (https://studentaid.gov/). This comprehensive website offers step-by-step guides, FAQs, and video tutorials to help users complete the FAFSA and understand their financial aid options. 
• FAFSA Help Center (https://studentaid.gov/help-center/contact). Users can access live chat, email support, or call the helpline (1-800-4-FED-AID) for answers to their FAFSA questions and assistance with any issues that arise during the application process. 
• Online School Financial Aid Offices. These offices provide personalized guidance on completing the FAFSA, understanding financial aid packages specific to online programs, and exploring additional funding options.
• College Financial Aid Workshops. Many schools and community organizations offer virtual workshops or webinars that guide users through the FAFSA process and answer common questions. 
• myStudentAid Mobile App. Users can download this app to conveniently complete the FAFSA on their mobile device and access resources on the go. 
• Online FAFSA Completion Events. Virtual events, often hosted by educational organizations, guide users through the FAFSA application process in real-time, offering immediate support and answers to specific questions. 
• State Financial Aid Programs. Many states offer their own resources and support programs to assist users in completing the FAFSA and applying for state-specific financial aid. 
• Federal Student Aid Social Media. Official social media channels (Twitter, Facebook, YouTube) provide updates, tips, and tutorials on completing the FAFSA and managing student loans. 
• Community Organizations and Nonprofits. Organizations like the National College Attainment Network (NCAN) and local non-profits often offer free FAFSA assistance and financial aid guidance.

Which loan option best suits your financial future?

When evaluating loan options, focus on a comprehensive comparison of essential parameters such as interest rates, repayment flexibility, and additional borrower benefits. Analyze the long-term financial impact of federal aid versus private loans by considering credit history influences, variable loan terms, and the potential for refinancing. Leverage objective research and comparison tools, including insights from school loan companies, to identify offers that align with your career trajectory and financial planning.

What is the long-term career value of an online degree with FAFSA support?

Evaluating the return on an online degree supported by FAFSA involves an analysis of job placement rates, industry partnerships, and alumni earnings. Consider programs that integrate practical skills with targeted career support to enhance long-term financial outcomes and professional growth. Compare program results using metrics such as salary progression and employment rates, and review independent resources like easiest master's degrees for additional insights on program competitiveness.

Key Findings

• Title IV status and accreditation are primary determinants if an online school is eligible for FAFSA.
• 35% of applicants receive federal grant aid.
• 5.8 million students, as of March 2024, have successfully applied for FAFSA.
• There are over 17.5 million FAFSA applications each year.
• 35.6% of high school seniors have completed the FAFSA, which is significantly lower than the previous year's 48.2%.

How can you cover past due tuition?

Dealing with past due tuition can be a stressful experience, but there are several strategies you can employ to manage and resolve the situation effectively. One viable option is to explore additional financial aid resources specifically designed to help students in need. For instance, understanding how to get student loans for past due tuition can provide you with the necessary funds to catch up on missed payments without jeopardizing your enrollment status.

Another approach is to communicate directly with your school’s financial aid office. They can offer guidance on setting up a payment plan that aligns with your financial situation, potentially reducing the immediate burden and allowing you to make manageable monthly payments. Additionally, some institutions may have emergency grants or bursaries available for students facing unexpected financial hardships.

Crowdfunding and community support are also viable alternatives. Platforms like GoFundMe or local community organizations can help raise the necessary funds to cover outstanding tuition fees. Furthermore, seeking part-time employment or freelance opportunities can provide an additional income stream to help pay off your debts.

It’s crucial to address past due tuition promptly to avoid further complications, such as registration holds or the inability to receive your diploma. Ignoring the issue can lead to more severe financial consequences, including damaged credit scores and increased debt due to late fees and interest. By proactively seeking solutions and utilizing available resources, you can effectively manage past due tuition and continue your educational journey with minimal disruptions.

Remember, you’re not alone in this situation. Many students face similar challenges, and reaching out for help can make a significant difference in resolving your financial obligations and maintaining your academic progress.

Other Things You Should Know About Online Schools That Accept FAFSA

Which browser is best for FAFSA?

The browser requirement of FAFSA is Mozilla Firefox (Version 68 and above), Google Chrome (Version 76 and above), or Safari (Version 9 and above). FAFSA may work with other browsers but the best results are with the said browsers. 

What is the average amount you can get from FAFSA?

Through the FAFSA, students can get an average of $4,310 for Pell Grants and $2,340 for a Federal Work-Study program. Dependents can obtain a Federal Direct Stafford Loan of about $5,800, while independents receive around $7,630. As for the total Federal Student Aid, dependents can get an average of $13,120 while independents can obtain about $14,950.    

What are the most common student loans?

The most common student loans are Direct Subsidized Loans and Direct Unsubsidized Loans. For students with financial need, Direct Subsidized Loans cover interest while enrolled half-time or more, during grace periods, and deferment. Direct Unsubsidized Loans are for everyone (undergrad or grad), but borrowers are responsible for all interest from the start.

References: 

1. College Board (2023). Trends in college pricing and student aid 2023. College Board
2. FAFSA. Browser requirements. FAFSA
3. Finetti, J. (2024, May 6). Gen Z students disappointed with financial aid offers arising from the new FAFSA. ScholarshipOwl
4. Kantrowitz, M. (2024, May 1). How much money can you get from the FAFSA? Saving for College
5. Lonas, L. (2024, March 17). FAFSA applications crater after rocky rollout. The Hill
6. Meyer, K. (2024, May 7). FAFSA rollout means fewer students will enroll in college next year. The Brookings Institution
7. Safier, R., Pentis, A., & Lowery, K. (2024, June 19). FAFSA 2024 application guide: How to access federal financial aid. CNN
8. Sallie Mae. Student loan options. Sallie Mae