Online Colleges That Accept FASFA
Online colleges offer a flexible and convenient option for busy students, but can still be expensive. Fortunately, most accredited online colleges accept FAFSA, which can help students fund their education.
Remote learning provides a flexible and convenient option for busy students who can’t attend traditional college courses in person. While online education might seem like a more affordable alternative, it can still be expensive for many.
Thankfully, a variety of online colleges accept FAFSA-based funding.
The FAFSA can help students get financial aid for online college, making it more affordable.
Online universities frequently accept federal aid, so students can utilize the FAFSA to determine how much they are eligible for.
Many online schools accept FAFSA, ensuring students receive the necessary support for their education.
However, it’s essential to note that some online schools, like Penn Foster, have a different type of accreditation and do not accept federal financial aid. Research each school’s accreditation and financial aid policies before applying.
In summary, pursuing an online degree doesn’t mean sacrificing access to financial aid. Most accredited online colleges accept FAFSA, offering students the support they need to cover their education costs.
How do I know if an online college accepts FAFSA?
There are two easy ways to check if an online college accepts FAFSA.
- Check the school’s website. Many schools have a “tuition and financial aid” tab that lists ways to finance your education. If the school accepts FAFSA, it will be listed on the financial aid page.
- Visit the Federal School Code Search. You can search for your school’s name or unique federal school code to see if it accepts FAFSA.
Keep in mind that only accredited schools can accept FAFSA. You can check the school’s accreditation status on the Department of Education’s Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs (DAPIP).
If you want to use your FAFSA award to pay for your online college education, also confirm that it’s listed on the DE’s Title IV participating schools list. You can search for your school’s name or unique federal school code on the downloadable spreadsheet.
How to Apply for Federal Financial Aid at Online Schools
Affordable Online Colleges That Accept FAFSA
American Public University
- Bachelor’s: $250-$285
- Master’s: $250-$370
Excelsior College
- Bachelor’s: $510
- Graduate: $695
University of Maryland – Global Campus
- Bachelor’s: $306-$625
- Graduate: $504-$694
- Doctoral: $1,087
Southern New Hampshire University – Online Program
- Bachelor’s: $320
- Graduate: $627
- Cohort-based program: $400
Purdue University Global
- Bachelor’s: $371
- Graduate: $420-$700
Capella University
- Bachelor’s: $357-$415
- Master’s: $440-$815
- Doctoral: $545-$810
University of Phoenix
- Bachelor’s: $398
- Master’s: $698
Arizona State University – Online
- Bachelor’s: $561-$661
- Master’s: $543-$1,343
University of Arizona Global Campus
- Bachelor’s: $510
- Master’s: $665-$740
- Doctoral: $1,082
Western Governors University
- Bachelor’s annual tuition: $7,452 (Average flat-rate tuition per year)
- Master’s annual tuition: $8,295 (Average flat-rate tuition per year)
To apply for federal financial aid for online school tuition, follow these steps with the FAFSA:
- Gather the necessary documents. You will need your Social Security or Alien Registration number, driver’s license number, tax documents, recent tax returns, and other relevant financial records.
- Create a Federal Student Aid ID. Both you and your parents must create individual FSA ID accounts online.
- Submit your FAFSA. The FAFSA is available online and as a PDF download. Fill it out and submit it as early as October 1 for the upcoming academic year.
- Review your Student Aid Report. After completing the FAFSA, you will receive a Student Aid Report (SAR) summarizing your provided information. Verify its accuracy and make corrections if necessary.
- Accept your federal student aid. If eligible, the online school’s administrator or financial aid office will guide you on the next steps. You should accept the aid you want and complete any additional paperwork required. For instance, if you are offered federal student loans, you should sign your master promissory note and complete loan entrance counseling before funds are released for your tuition and fees.
How do you qualify for financial aid?
To qualify for federal financial aid, you must meet certain eligibility requirements. These include:
- Be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen
- Have a Social Security number
- Demonstrate financial need
- Be accepted or enrolled in a program that accepts FAFSA
- Have a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent
You can find more information about eligibility requirements on the Federal Student Aid website.
What can disqualify you from getting financial aid?
There are a few things that can disqualify you from getting financial aid. These include:
- Defaulting on federal student loans
- Owing money on federal student grants
- Not using the money for educational purposes
- Not maintaining satisfactory academic progress
- Attending a non-accredited college or university
Noncitizens or students with criminal convictions may be eligible for financial aid in certain circumstances.
Other Financial Aid Options for Online Students
There are other ways to finance your schooling for students whose schools don’t provide FAFSA or if a student doesn’t qualify for financial aid.
- Scholarships: Free money awarded based on academic merit, extracurricular activities, or financial need. Students should apply for as many as they are eligible for.
- Grants: Free money awarded based on financial need. Students do not have to repay them.
- Loans: Borrowed money that must be repaid with interest. Students should compare interest rates and repayment terms before choosing a loan.
- Work-study: A program that allows students to earn money for college by working part-time jobs on campus or in the community.
- Employer tuition assistance programs: Some employers offer programs that cover a portion of tuition costs.
- Military benefits: If students are military members or veterans, they may be eligible for tuition assistance, scholarships, or grants to help pay for college.
