Cheapest Online Colleges that Accept FAFSA

Earning a degree can be an amazing accomplishment, but it can also be expensive. If you're looking for an affordable option, online colleges are a great way to get your education while still meeting your other obligations.

affordable_online_colleges_that_accept_fafsa

But did you know that not all online colleges accept the FAFSA, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid? This means you could miss out on valuable federal grants and loans that can help you pay for your education.

This article will explore the online colleges that accept the FAFSA, so you can be sure you're getting the most financial aid possible. We'll also answer some frequently asked questions about online colleges and financial aid.

Table of Contents

Affordable Online Colleges that Accept FAFSA

University of Florida

Located in Gainesville, FL
Costs: $6,000 for tuition/fees, $15,050 for other expenses
Acceptance rate: 30%
Graduation rate: 91%
Student body: 48,000
Offers grants, scholarships, federal work-study, and loans

Western Governors University

Located in Salt Lake City, UT
Costs: $7,000 for tuition/fees, $15,510 for other expenses
Graduation rate: 64%
Student body: 130,000
Offers a variety of scholarships and accepts federal financial aid

University of Wisconsin-Platteville

Located in Platteville, WI
Costs: $8,000 for tuition/fees, $12,930 for other expenses
Acceptance rate: 88%
Graduation rate: 59%
Student body: 7,000
Offers a variety of merit-based and need-based scholarships

Purdue Global

Located in West Lafayette, IN
Costs: $10,000 for tuition/fees, $14,811 for other expenses
Graduation rate: 29%
Student body: 49,000
Offers federal grants and loans, state aid, institutional aid, and private scholarships

Kansas State University

Located in Manhattan, KS
Costs: $10,000 for tuition/fees, $15,310 for other expenses
Acceptance rate: 96%
Graduation rate: 68%
Student body: 17,000
Offers a variety of merit-based and need-based scholarships

University of Michigan-Flint

Located in Flint, MI
Costs: $12,000 for tuition/fees, $14,684 for other expenses
Acceptance rate: 74%
Graduation rate: 36%
Student body: 5,000
Offers a variety of donor-funded and departmental scholarships

Baker College

Located in Owosso, MI
Costs: $12,000 for tuition/fees, $12,200 for other expenses
Acceptance rate: 41%
Graduation rate: 21%
Student body: 4,000
Offers federal grants, loans, and a variety of scholarships

Grand Canyon University

Located in Phoenix, AZ
Costs: $18,000 for tuition/fees, $14,300 for other expenses
Acceptance rate: 83%
Graduation rate: 45%
Student body: 94,000
Offers a variety of merit-based scholarships and federal financial aid

Columbia College

Located in Columbia, MO
Costs: $24,000 for tuition/fees
Graduation rate: 33%
Student body: 6,000
Popular degree programs: BS in Accounting, BA in History, BS in Cybersecurity
Accepts FAFSA for financial aid

Harvard University

Located in Cambridge, MA
Costs: $55,587 for tuition/fees, $22,441 for other expenses
Acceptance rate: 4%
Graduation rate: 97%
Student body: 24,000
Popular degree programs: Wide variety across disciplines
Offers need-based financial aid regardless of citizenship/nationality

Scholarships and Grants

Many online colleges offer scholarships and grants to help make education more affordable. These are often merit-based scholarships awarded for academic achievement, athletic talents, or other strengths. Some colleges also offer need-based grants for students demonstrating financial need through the FAFSA application. External organizations like religious groups, businesses, nonprofits, and community groups also provide scholarships and grants that online students can apply for.

State and Federal Grants

The federal government provides Pell Grants and Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOGs) for undergraduate students with exceptional financial need. The Children of Fallen Heroes Scholarship supports children of US service members who perished in the line of duty. Some states also offer grants and scholarships - eligibility varies but often prioritizes in-state residents and students pursuing certain degree paths like teaching or healthcare. Students complete the FAFSA application each year to determine eligibility.

Loan Forgiveness Programs

Students pursuing careers in healthcare, education, or public service may be eligible for federal or state loan forgiveness programs. These incentivize working in high-need areas by forgiving portions of students' loan debt after making qualifying payments over an extended period while employed in an eligible profession.

Financial Aid Calculator

This free financial aid calculator can provide customized estimates on potential grants, scholarships, work-study opportunities, and loans: https://studentaid.gov/aid-estimator/

FAQ: Online Colleges that Accept FAFSA

What is the FAFSA?

The FAFSA is the official form you need to complete to qualify for federal financial aid, including grants, loans, and work-study programs. It's important to fill out the FAFSA every year, even if you don't think you'll qualify for aid. You can submit the FAFSA starting on October 1st of each year.

Why is it important to choose an online college that accepts the FAFSA?

Federal financial aid is typically more affordable than private loans, and it comes with better repayment options. By choosing an online college that accepts the FAFSA, you're opening yourself up to more financial aid options and potentially saving yourself a lot of money.

How can I find out if an online college accepts the FAFSA?

The easiest way to find out if an online college accepts the FAFSA is to visit the school's financial aid website or contact their financial aid office directly. You can also check the Department of Education's database of accredited postsecondary institutions and programs.