Financial Aid
Verification
- What do I do if the federal processor says I am selected for verification?
Each year, about 30 percent of students’ financial aid applications nationwide are chosen for “verification,” a process of confirming data supplied by the applicant and/or parents on aid applications. Through verification, UF resolves discrepancies on students’ aid applications.
If your application is selected for verification or quality assurance, or if there are discrepancies on your aid application information, you will receive an e-mail from us alerting you to check your financial aid status and “to do” list on ONE.UF to determine which documents to provide.
Aid funds cannot be disbursed to you until you have submitted all requested documents and the accuracy of your information has been checked. Do not submit any documents unless we request that you do so.
Student Employment
- How do I find a student job at UF?
To search and apply for “on-campus” jobs, including all Federal Work-Study (FWS), Federal Community Service, and OPS positions, go to GatorJobs. Search for off-campus jobs through the Career Resource Center.
More information:
The Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships (SFA) in S-107 Criser Hall, is UF’s financial aid office.
- What is Federal Work-Study?
Federal Work-Study is a need-based financial aid award made to enrolled, degree-seeking students. Work-study employers pay only a portion of the student’s earnings, and financial aid funds pay the other portion. Consequently, work-study students are desirable to employers.
- I have financial aid, but I didn’t receive Federal Work-Study. Can I still receive it?
Possibly. Some students who have unmet need can receive work-study even if they weren’t awarded initially.
If you wish to return to a work-study job you have previously held, want to work for a community service organization, or wish to participate in the “America Reads” program, you usually can be awarded at any time. If additional work-study funds become available during the year, students will be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis until funds are exhausted.
Stop by or call the Student Employment Office at 352.392.0296 periodically to discuss work-study availability and/or other work options.
For more information, see SFA’s Student Employment page.
SFA is the Financial Aid Office at the University of Florida.
- Once I find a job I’m interested in, what do I do?
Generally, you will need to apply for jobs through https://jobs.ufl.edu and you will be contacted by the department if you are selected for an interview. Sometimes you may need to fax or mail resumes, and other times you may need to apply in person. If there aren’t specific instructions, you can call the contact person.
Students going to an interview for either Federal Work-Study must take a copy of their award summary with them to the interview. UF award summaries can be printed by the student from ONE.UF. OPS jobs do not require a UF Work Permit.
- As a student employee, do I have to contribute to Social Security (FICA)?
Whether you are required to pay into Social Security depends on IRS policies which determine whether your main purpose is to be a student or an employee. According to these policies, a degree-seeking student who is enrolled in at least six credit hours (five for graduate students) in the academic year and working less than 32 hours per week is primarily a student, and therefore does not have to pay into retirement. Students who are enrolled in fewer hours, are not degree-seeking, or are working more than 32 hours per week are primarily employees, and therefore must pay into Social Security.
During the summer, the enrollment requirement for graduate students drops to four credit hours, though all other standards remain the same.
Scholarships
- How Will My Scholarship Be Disbursed?
If your scholarship check is being sent to UF for disbursement, your donor should mail the check to: University of Florida, Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships, Scholarship Section, P. O. Box 114025, Gainesville, FL 32611-4025.
Your scholarship will be disbursed to you according to standard University of Florida disbursement procedures for financial aid and scholarships, unless the donor has provided other, specific disbursement stipulations. More information can be found on SFA’s Aid Disbursement page.
If you are receiving any other type of need-based financial aid and you receive the scholarship funds directly from the donor in cash or made payable to only you, you must notify UF’s Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships. SFA may be required under Federal regulations to adjust your financial aid package.
You may want to let your donor know when your semester tuition/fees are due so your scholarship checks can arrive before the fee payment deadline. Funds are not disbursed until classes begin each semester and you are enrolled full time, but early receipt of the scholarship funds ensures that they will be available to meet fee payment deadlines.
The Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships (SFA) in S-107 Criser Hall, is UF’s financial aid office.
- Will an additional outside scholarship affect my award?
Possibly. Each student who applies for aid is eligible for a certain amount according to their financial circumstances and educational costs.
If an outside scholarship results in your receiving more aid than the federal processor indicates you are eligible to receive, you may lose other aid. This will depend upon the type of other aid you are receiving.
If you receive an outside scholarship, check with a financial aid adviser in the OneStop to find out how or if it will affect your total package.
- How will I receive my private scholarship money from UF?
Your scholarship donor may provide instructions in a cover letter on how the scholarship funds are to be disbursed to you. If no specific instructions are provided, the University of Florida (UF) pays your scholarship funds to you according to the disbursement procedure for financial aid and scholarships. Also, see Student Financial Affairs page on disbursement information.
If you are receiving any other type of need-based financial aid and receive the scholarship funds directly from the donor in cash or made payable to only you, you must notify UF’s Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships (SFA). SFA may be required under federal regulations to adjust your financial aid package.
You may want to let your donor know when your semester tuition/fees are due so your scholarship checks can arrive before the fee payment deadline. Funds are not disbursed until classes begin each semester and you are enrolled full time, but early receipt of the scholarship funds from donors ensures that they will be available to meet fee payment deadlines.
If your donor is mailing your scholarship check to UF for disbursement, the check should be mailed to: University of Florida, Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships, Scholarship Section, P. O. Box 114025, Gainesville, FL 32611-4025.
- Where can I look for scholarships?
The Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships publishes an annual listing of all scholarship opportunities at UF on the Scholarship Search Engine, a searchable database of college-awarded and non-UF scholarships. Additional Scholarship Resources
- What is the mailing address to send a private donor scholarship check to UF?
Private donor scholarship checks may be dropped off in person by the student (be sure to endorse if a joint check) or mailed to: University of Florida, Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships, ATTN: Disbursements, PO Box 114025, Gainesville, FL 32611-4025. If your donor needs a physical address for FedEx or other overnight delivery service, delete the PO box number and insert our physical address of 1478 Union Road, S317.
Receiving Aid
- When and how will I get my financial aid funds?
Students generally receive financial aid by direct deposit from the University Bursar‘s office (UB) in S-113 Criser Hall. Most financial aid refunds begin to disburse the week after drop/add ends.
Due to UF’s continuing support for sustainable practices, as well as the costs associated with producing, mailing, and tracking undelivered checks, direct deposit is required for the delivery of financial aid refunds.
To sign up for direct deposit, go to ONE.UF and login with your username and password. Select “Campus Finances (Bursar). Under “Related Links” select “Sign up for Direct Deposit” and follow the instructions on the screen.
Direct Deposit is the quickest and safest way to receive your financial aid refunds.
Please direct any questions about direct deposit to (352) 392-0737.
For more information:
SFA is the financial aid office at the University of Florida.
- When is financial aid distributed in the Fall?
Financial aid disbursements begin as early as the first week of classes, but most financial aid starts disbursing the week after drop/add ends.
Loan programs also require that promissory notes, borrower acceptances/confirmation, and entrance counseling requirements be completed before loan disbursement can occur.
More information
– Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships Disbursement page
– SFA’s Financial Aid Calendar
Miscellaneous
- What is UF’s Withdrawal and Refunds Policy?
The University of Florida has established an equitable refund policy for students who find it necessary to drop a course or withdraw from enrollment. That policy is described in detail in the University of Florida Undergraduate Catalog and in the Gator Aid financial aid handbook. Details on the withdrawal and refunds policies are available from the Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships on request.
For more information:
Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships page on Withdrawals/RefundsThe Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships (SFA) in S-107 Criser Hall, is UF’s financial aid office.
- How does textbook deferment work at UF?
The UF Bookstore offers text book deferments to students who are receiving a predetermined amount of financial aid each semester.
The UF Bookstore establishes an amount of credit that you can use to purchase books and supplies. These charges are placed on your UF accounts receivable account and are deducted from your financial aid when your aid is disbursed.
Regulations specify that bookstore charges may not be paid for from federal Title IV funds unless you have submitted a Permission to Authorize Payment Agreement with University Financial Services. To complete this authorization, got to ONE.UF, choose “Campus Finance (Bursar),” then in related links, choose “Authorize Student Permissions (Title IV).” Follow the instructions on the screen.
There is no special application for a bookstore deferment. If you are eligible for a textbook deferment, your approval will be indicated on the “View Course Textbook Requirements” page through ONE.UF.
- Can international students get state or federal funded scholarships?
As a student attending the university on a student visa, you are not eligible to receive funding from state or federal programs administered by the UF Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships (SFA). However, you may be eligible for scholarships awarded by the various colleges or private organizations. For more information see SFA’s International Students page.
The Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships (SFA) in S-107 Criser Hall, is UF’s financial aid office.
- Can I avoid future tuition increases and buy credit hours now (e.g., purchase 45 hours today and use them over the next year or so)?
The Florida Prepaid College Plan locks in the cost of college tuition and local fees at today’s prices, guaranteed. For more information, visit the Florida Prepaid College Board or call 1-800-552-GRAD.
- Does UF offer tuition fee waivers for out-of-state residents?
The University of Florida does provide out-of-state tuition reductions to a limited number of top entering freshman who are non-Florida residents. For more information, contact the UFAdmissions Office at (352) 392-1365.
The Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships (SFA) in S-107 Criser Hall, is UF’s financial aid office.
- Medical Expenses and Financial Aid Awards
Medical and dental expenses paid that exceed the family’s base-year income by more than five percent may be taken into consideration through an appeal process with the financial aid office. To obtain a Financial Aid Revision Petition, you must contact a financial aid adviser in the OneStop, S-107 Criser Hall, 352-392-2244, to discuss your individual situation.
For more information, see SFA’s “Petitioning Your Aid”.
- Who is my Financial Aid Adviser?
The Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships (SFA) Financial Aid Advising Team is available through the OneStop and provides personal financial aid counseling for students and prospective students and their families.
For Financial Aid Advising, contact the OneStop at 352-392-2244 or make and appointment at https://www.onestop.ufl.edu.
- What is UF’s Withdrawal and Refunds Policy?
Students who wish to withdraw from UF must follow UF’s official withdrawal policy.
The Registrar’s Office assists students wishing to withdraw from UF and coordinates the process. Complete information, as well as the application form, can be found on the Registrar’s withdrawal webpage.
Loans
- What’s the Difference Between Subsidized & Unsubsidized Loans?
If you borrow a subsidized loan, the federal government will pay the interest on your subsidized loan while you are in school at least half-time, as well as during grace and deferment periods.
If you receive an ubsubsidized loan, interest starts accruing from the time the funds are disbursed to you. You are responsible for paying this interest; you can either pay it while you’re in school or let it accrue. The amount you let accrue will be added to the principal balance (capitalized).
If you let your interest capitalize, it increases your loan principal balance and you will then have to pay interest on the increased loan amount. The total amount you will repay over the life of your loan will be greater than if you paid interest while you were in school.
For more information, see SFA’s Loans page.
The Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships (SFA) in S-107 Criser, is UF’s Financial Aid Office.
- How Are Federal Student Loans Different From Alternative Loans?
While every student wants scholarships and grants, not everyone can cover the entire cost of college using those options. Loans can make your education possible and affordable.
However, while exploring your loan options, you should consider federal student loans before any alternative options. Federal student loans feature:
- lower and fixed interest rates,
- generous repayment plans,
- no prepayment penalties, and
- no credit checks (except for PLUS loans).
In contrast, alternative loans, which may be aggressively marketed to students through TV ads, mailings, and other media, are substantially more expensive than federal loans. They generally have higher, variable interest rates that may substantially increase the total amount you have to repay. In addition, the interest rate that you receive from a private lender may depend on your credit score. Private loans may also penalize the borrower for early repayment.
Alternative loans are not for everyone. They can be expensive and should only be utilized when all other federal resources, such as Federal Direct Stafford and Federal Direct PLUS Loans, have been exhausted.
More Info:
The Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships (SFA) in S-107 Criser, is UF’s Financial Aid Office.
- What Are Direct Loans?
Direct Loans are low-interest loans for students and parents. They are designed to help pay for the cost of a student’s education. The lender is the U.S. government, rather than a private bank.
More information:
The Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships (SFA) in S-107 Criser Hall, is UF’s financial aid office.
- What is “Entrance Counseling?"
If you are a first-time borrower, you must complete an entrance counseling session before your money is disbursed to you. The entrance counseling session provides you with useful tips & tools to help you develop a budget for managing your education expenses. Entrance counseling also helps you understand the responsibilities incurred when accepting an educational loan.
Federal Direct Loan borrowers should complete Entrance Counseling using https://studentaid.gov.
For more information on Entrance Counseling, see UFS’ Loan Counseling page.
- After refusing a student loan can I change my mind and take it back?
If you have canceled a Federal Direct Student Loan and now wish to receive one, you must contact a financial aid adviser in the OneStop and put in a request to reprocess a new loan.
The Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships (SFA) in S-107 Criser Hall, is UF’s financial aid office.
- How do I apply for Federal Student Loans (Direct Loans)?
To apply for a subsidized or unsubsidized Federal Direct Loan, you must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA.
Graduate students and parents of dependent undergraduates can apply for Federal Direct PLUS Loans by completing the FAFSA and an online PLUS Loan application using https://studentaid.gov.
The Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships (SFA) in S-107 Criser Hall, is UF’s financial aid office.
- How do I apply for a Federal Direct Subsidized Stafford Loan?
Eligibility for the Federal Direct Subsidized Stafford Loan is based on need and is computed in the same way as eligibility for other need-based aid. You will be applying for a Federal Direct Stafford Loan when you complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, answer ‘yes’ to being interested in student loans, and send it to the processor. There is no separate loan application required.
- How Much Can I Borrow through the Federal Direct Loan Program?
To see limits for both Federal Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans, consult our loans page.
- What is a Federal Direct/Stafford Loan Master Promissory Note?
A Federal Direct/Stafford Loan Master Promissory Note (MPN) is the electronic document you must complete before receiving loan funds if UF determines from your federal need analysis report that you are eligible for a Federal Direct Stafford Loan or Federal Direct Unsubsidized Stafford Loan. If you are awarded a loan as part of your aid package and do not yet have an MPN on file, you will need to fill out an online MPN. UF cannot disburse your loan until you have completed this requirement. You can complete a Master Promissory Note at https://studentaid.gov.
- I received my award letter with a Federal Direct/Stafford Loan amount, but I don’t want to borrow the full amount. Can I ask for less?
Yes. To reduce or cancel any award, login at ONE.UF with your Gatorlink username and password. In the “Financial Aid,” tab, select your “Financial Aid Summary” for the appropriate academic year. Scroll down to your “Aid Package” and then to the loan area. You can decline, reduce or accept loans by clicking the “take action” button.
Graduate Aid
- As a graduate international student, what financial aid can I get?
Federal loans and work programs are the usual types of aid that are available for graduate students.
To be eligible for aid administered through UF’s financial aid office, you must be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen. If you are not a U.S. citizen or an otherwise eligible non-citizen, you may obtain more information regarding eligibility requirements and other sources of aid for international students from the UF International Center’s website.
The Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships (SFA) in S-107 Criser Hall, is UF’s financial aid office.
- Is financial aid is available to graduate students?
Loans and work programs are the primary aid programs available to graduate students. UF graduate students are not eligible for Federal Pell Grants, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants, or other institutional grants with the exception of the UF Graduate Grant. The UF Graduate Grant is awarded to graduate students who submit a FAFSA and who demonstrate exceptional financial need as determined from the results of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
For more information see Student Financial Aid and Scholarships’ Graduate Aid Information.
Freshman Admissions
- What is the annual tuition for a beginning freshmen?
The University Bursar keeps a current listing of cost per credit hour for both Florida residents and Non-Florida residents.
Undergraduate students normally take 12-15 credit hours per term, with two terms per year.
- What is a “Standard Student Budget,” or “Average Cost of Attendance?”
The “Average Cost of Attendance” is the amount the University estimates it costs to attend college for the academic year. Costs include: tuition/fees, computer costs, books and supplies, housing, meals, transportation, clothing maintenance, health insurance, and personal expenses. Budgets are calculated for undergraduates, graduate students, and professional students, living on- and off-campus.
The Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships (SFA) in S-107 Criser Hall, is UF’s financial aid office.
Financial Aid and Taxes
- Do I have to pay taxes on the money I earn through Federal Work-Study?
Yes, Work-Study income is taxable.
You will receive a W-2 from the university at the end of each year, and this form will indicate how much you made from all UF employment, including Work-Study employment in the prior year.
Note that although you may have to pay taxes on Work-Study earnings, you should list those earnings as income on your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), but may be able to report them as exclusions on the FAFSA.
The Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships (SFA) in S-107 Criser Hall, is UF’s financial aid office.
- Do I need to include financial aid I have received as “taxable income”?
Yes. Students who receive financial aid must report part of their financial aid as taxable income on their income tax returns.
What must you include? Funds you receive (from scholarships, benefits, fellowships, and grants from the University of Florida or any other source) that, combined, exceed the cost of your tuition, fees, books, and required equipment and supplies. Income from Federal Pell Grants is counted; University of Florida loans and federal loans are not.
Since you must report such funds to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) as income, you should keep a detailed record of your expenditures for tuition, fees, books, and required equipment and supplies. Housing and food are non-exempt, so money spent on these items is subject to income tax. If you report financial aid on your tax returns, be sure to write “school” and the amount reported on the tax return next to the wages line, and to list the same amount on your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) if applicable.
For more information, consult the IRS, your income tax form instruction booklet, your FAFSA instructions, and/or your personal tax adviser.
The Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships (SFA) in S-107 Criser Hall, is UF’s financial aid office.
Financial Aid Awards
- Can my financial aid award change after I receive my financial aid award letter?
Yes, it can. As stated in the UF financial aid guide, initial financial aid offers are our best estimate of what you are eligible to receive.
You can view your current aid information on ONE.UF. Log in with your name and password. Choose “Financial Aid” for the correct academic year.
Most changes in aid offers involve factors which are under your control, or of which you should be aware. Your award may be increased, reduced, or even canceled, if:
- Your family financial circumstance changes, causing your financial need to change.
- You receive any additional outside resources, such as a privately awarded scholarship, which was not listed on your award letter.
- You provided incorrect data on your FAFSA.
- You do not maintain academic progress as required by the University of Florida’s Financial Aid Academic Progress Guidelines
- You are suspended by your college or by the University.
- You do not enroll for the required number of hours to receive aid through the programs awarded you.
- When are admitted students notified of their financial aid award or of any merit scholarships they will receive?
When UF has received your electronic FAFSA information from the federal processor, and you have been admitted to UF, if you are eligible for aid, the Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships (SFA) will award you an aid package based on your demonstrated need. SFA will begin the award notification process in March for newly admitted students and in June for students that are currently enrolled at UF. Award offers and financial aid packages are available at ONE.UF. In order for UF Student Financial Aid and Scholarships to consider you for a financial aid package, you must be a degree-seeking, admitted student.
Some merit scholarships are not awarded by SFA. Students are notified by the various offices or departments that are responsible for recipient selection.
For more information see SFA’s Aid Programs page.
- How do I report additional aid resources not reflected on my award letter?
Financial aid awards can be updated and corrected and revised award notices issued via email to reflect changes in a student’s aid award. Students must report any aid they will be receiving from any source if it is not listed on their financial aid Awards and Disbursement page at ONE.UF.
To report this aid, students should login at ONE.UF, and go to the “Financial Aid” tab, and then to the “Financial Aid Summary” for the correct academic year. “Additional Aid Reporting” is at the bottom of the financial aid summary.
- Why is the amount of my Pell Grant different from the amount listed on my award letter?
The federal government makes final Pell Grant awards based on your actual enrollment status and are contingent upon verification of any discrepancies in data you provide on your financial aid application.
Also, the amount on your award letter is made assuming that you will enroll full time. In general, if you enroll half time, you receive half of the award; if you enroll three quarter time, you receive three quarters of the award; if you enroll full time, you receive the full award.
Eligibility for Financial Aid
- How is my “financial need” determined when I apply for financial aid?
For the academic year 2023-24, the federal processor determines your individual family’s ability to contribute to the cost of education (“Expected Family Contribution”) using the information you provide on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and a standard formula established by the U.S. Congress.
After receiving your Expected Family Contribution (EFC) amount from the processor, the Office for Student Financial Affairs then subtracts your EFC from the standard student budget (average cost of attendance).
In formula form: Cost of Attendance – Expected Family Contribution = Financial Need.
Replacing the Expected Family Contribution (EFC) With the Student Aid Index (SAI)
Starting with the 2024–25 award year, students and families will see a different measure of their ability to pay for college, and they’ll experience a change in the methodology used to determine aid. The new need analysis formula allows a minimum SAI of -1500 and implements separate eligibility determination criteria for Federal Pell Grants.
For complete information on how your need is determined go to Student Financial Aid and Scholarships.
The Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships (SFA) in S-107 Criser Hall, is UF’s financial aid office.
- Can my financial aid award change after I receive my financial aid award letter?
Yes, it can. As stated in the UF financial aid guide, initial financial aid offers are our best estimate of what you are eligible to receive.
You can view your current aid information on ONE.UF. Log in with your name and password. Choose “Financial Aid” for the correct academic year.
Most changes in aid offers involve factors which are under your control, or of which you should be aware. Your award may be increased, reduced, or even canceled, if:
- Your family financial circumstance changes, causing your financial need to change.
- You receive any additional outside resources, such as a privately awarded scholarship, which was not listed on your award letter.
- You provided incorrect data on your FAFSA.
- You do not maintain academic progress as required by the University of Florida’s Financial Aid Academic Progress Guidelines
- You are suspended by your college or by the University.
- You do not enroll for the required number of hours to receive aid through the programs awarded you.
- If I am not eligible for need-based financial aid, is anything else available?
Many scholarships, loans, and employment programs that are not based on need are available to UF students.
Numerous scholarships are available based on academic or other achievement, rather than financial need. Most of these scholarships are awarded through the admissions process or by the individual colleges. Some are based on both financial need and academics.
Students searching for college-awarded aid may want to use SFA’s Scholarship Search Engine, a comprehensive database of college-awarded aid at the University of Florida. Other scholarship resources are available at https://www.sfa.ufl.edu/search/other-scholarship-resources/.
For more detailed information, go to the Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships website.
Students interested in loans (like Federal Direct PLUS Loans; Federal Unsubsidized Stafford Student Loans, and others) should view the Student Financial Affairs page on Loan Information. Further information on student loans is available at the Federal Student Loans site.
Several student employment programs are also available that are not based on need.
The Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships (SFA) in S-107 Criser Hall, is UF’s financial aid office.
- Will an additional outside scholarship affect my award?
Possibly. Each student who applies for aid is eligible for a certain amount according to their financial circumstances and educational costs.
If an outside scholarship results in your receiving more aid than the federal processor indicates you are eligible to receive, you may lose other aid. This will depend upon the type of other aid you are receiving.
If you receive an outside scholarship, check with a financial aid adviser in the OneStop to find out how or if it will affect your total package.
- Is financial aid available for out-of-state students?
Yes. Financial aid is available for out-of-state students. When awarding financial aid, UF does not treat out-of-state students differently than in-state students, except that the cost of attendance used for an out-of-state student is higher than that used for an in-state student.
For financial aid purposes, need is determined by the following formula:
Costs of Attendance – Family Contribution = Financial Need.For more information see SFA’s page on Determining Financial Need.
Please note that there are some programs for which only Florida residents qualify.
- Can the University estimate my eligibility for financial aid?
The University cannot determine or estimate the amount of financial aid for which you might qualify until the results of your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) have been received from the federal processor.
The federal processor determines your eligibility from information you and your family supply on the FAFSA.
However, you may want to use the UF Net Price Calculator or the FAFSA Forecaster to get an idea of the types and amounts of financial for which you MAY qualify. While these tools are not a means of determining actual financial aid eligibility, they are provided as planning tools.
For more information:
Student Financial Aid and Scholarships page on how your need is determined.
Finaid.org’s page on Expected Family Contribution CalculatorThe Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships (SFA) in S-107 Criser Hall, is UF’s financial aid office.
- Are there unusual circumstances that can affect my financial aid award?
If any of the following circumstances apply to you/your family, check with a financial aid adviser immediately to see if this might affect your financial aid application.
- Divorce of parents, or you from your spouse.
- Death of a major wage earner
- Loss of employment of a major wage earner
- Loss of other income or benefits (such as Social Security, child support, or alimony) by you, your parents, or your spouse.
For more information see SFA’s Financial Aid Policies That Effect You.
The Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships (SFA) in S-107 Criser Hall, is UF’s financial aid office.
- Will our savings and other assets be considered when our financial need is being determined for purposes of receiving financial aid at UF?
Family assets, such as stocks and bonds, net business worth, and savings are taken into account in determining UF’s expected family contribution toward a student’s education. Eligibility for federal financial aid funds is determined by rules set by the federal government that provide, among other things, allowances for retirement needs in computing this contribution.
Disbursement
- How Will My Scholarship Be Disbursed?
If your scholarship check is being sent to UF for disbursement, your donor should mail the check to: University of Florida, Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships, Scholarship Section, P. O. Box 114025, Gainesville, FL 32611-4025.
Your scholarship will be disbursed to you according to standard University of Florida disbursement procedures for financial aid and scholarships, unless the donor has provided other, specific disbursement stipulations. More information can be found on SFA’s Aid Disbursement page.
If you are receiving any other type of need-based financial aid and you receive the scholarship funds directly from the donor in cash or made payable to only you, you must notify UF’s Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships. SFA may be required under Federal regulations to adjust your financial aid package.
You may want to let your donor know when your semester tuition/fees are due so your scholarship checks can arrive before the fee payment deadline. Funds are not disbursed until classes begin each semester and you are enrolled full time, but early receipt of the scholarship funds ensures that they will be available to meet fee payment deadlines.
The Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships (SFA) in S-107 Criser Hall, is UF’s financial aid office.
- When and how will I get my financial aid funds?
Students generally receive financial aid by direct deposit from the University Bursar‘s office (UB) in S-113 Criser Hall. Most financial aid refunds begin to disburse the week after drop/add ends.
Due to UF’s continuing support for sustainable practices, as well as the costs associated with producing, mailing, and tracking undelivered checks, direct deposit is required for the delivery of financial aid refunds.
To sign up for direct deposit, go to ONE.UF and login with your username and password. Select “Campus Finances (Bursar). Under “Related Links” select “Sign up for Direct Deposit” and follow the instructions on the screen.
Direct Deposit is the quickest and safest way to receive your financial aid refunds.
Please direct any questions about direct deposit to (352) 392-0737.
For more information:
SFA is the financial aid office at the University of Florida.
- How will I receive my private scholarship money from UF?
Your scholarship donor may provide instructions in a cover letter on how the scholarship funds are to be disbursed to you. If no specific instructions are provided, the University of Florida (UF) pays your scholarship funds to you according to the disbursement procedure for financial aid and scholarships. Also, see Student Financial Affairs page on disbursement information.
If you are receiving any other type of need-based financial aid and receive the scholarship funds directly from the donor in cash or made payable to only you, you must notify UF’s Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships (SFA). SFA may be required under federal regulations to adjust your financial aid package.
You may want to let your donor know when your semester tuition/fees are due so your scholarship checks can arrive before the fee payment deadline. Funds are not disbursed until classes begin each semester and you are enrolled full time, but early receipt of the scholarship funds from donors ensures that they will be available to meet fee payment deadlines.
If your donor is mailing your scholarship check to UF for disbursement, the check should be mailed to: University of Florida, Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships, Scholarship Section, P. O. Box 114025, Gainesville, FL 32611-4025.
Bright Futures
- What is the Florida Bright Futures Scholarship Program?
The Florida Bright Futures Scholarship Program provides scholarships based on high school academic achievement.
It has two award levels:- the Florida Academic Scholars Award
- the Florida Medallion Scholars Award
Each award level has different academic criteria for eligibility, as well as different award amounts. Awards are per credit hour.
Students must submit a completed Florida Financial Aid Application during their last year in high school (after December 1 and prior to graduation).
For more information about Florida Bright Futures including specific award amounts, see SFA’s Bright Futures page.
The Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships (SFA) in S-107 Criser Hall, is UF’s financial aid office.
- How do I apply for the Florida Bright Futures Scholarship (FBFS) Program?
Go to the Department of Education’s Florida Bright Futures website.
You may also contact your high school guidance office or the Florida Department of Education, Office of Student Financial Assistance, 325 W. Gaines Street, Suite 1314 Tallahassee, FL 32399-0400; 1-888-827-2004 (toll-free)
Information is also available through UF’s Student Financial Aid and Scholarships website.
- How will I receive my Florida Bright Futures Scholarship?
Each semester, the Florida Department of Education will forward Florida Bright Futures funds to the University.
Your Florida Bright Futures funds will be released to you according to University financial aid disbursement policies.
Funding for the Florida Bright Futures Scholarship Program begins the summer or fall term after high school graduation for eligible students.
The Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships (SFA) in S-107 Criser Hall, is UF’s financial aid office.
- Does the Florida Bright Futures Program cover graduate school tuition?
Bright Futures Scholarship recipients who graduate with a baccalaureate degree in the 2010-11 academic year or thereafter may be funded for one semester of graduate study, not to exceed 15 semester hours paid at the undergraduate rate if they meet the following requirements:
• Earn their baccalaureate degree in seven semesters or fewer
OR
• Earn their baccalaureate degree in 105 semester hours or fewer
AND
• Have time remaining on their program- How does the Florida Bright Futures Program calculate my GPA?
Information on the criteria used by the Florida Office for Student Financial Assistance in Tallahassee for determining initial award eligibility can be found at Florida Bright Futures.
Applying for Aid
- Do I need to reapply for financial aid each year?
Yes. Financial aid is not automatically renewed. File your FAFSA for the appropriate academic year and submit the documents that are requested.
More information on how to apply is available here.
- When should I apply for financial aid to attend UF?
Although you must be accepted for enrollment at UF before you receive a financial aid offer, you should apply for aid before being admitted.
To apply for financial aid, students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at http://www.fafsa.gov. The 2024-25 FAFSA will open in December 2023. You much complete a FAFSA for each academic year you attend college. To receive the best financial aid offer, complete the FAFSA as early as possible.
In order for UF Student Financial Aid and Scholarships to consider you for a financial aid package, you must be a degree-seeking, admitted student
For more information see “How to Apply.”
The Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships (SFA) in S-107 Criser Hall, is UF’s financial aid office.
- Where can I find information on tuition costs and UF’s cost of attendance?
UF Student Financial Aid and Scholarships provides average cost of attendance estimates.
The University Bursar’s Office provides current tuition and fee information.
- When should I apply for the FAFSA?
To apply for financial aid, students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at http://www.fafsa.gov. The 2024-25 FAFSA will open in December 2023. You must complete a FAFSA each year. To receive the best financial aid offer, complete the FAFSA as early as possible. In order for UF Student Financial Affairs to consider you for a financial aid package, you must be a degree-seeking, admitted student.”
Although you must be accepted for enrollment at UF before you are considered for financial aid, you should apply for aid before being admitted.
The Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships (SFA) in S-107 Criser Hall, is UF’s financial aid office.
- What is the mailing address for the UF financial aid office, and what is UF’s Federal School Code to use on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)?
The address for the University of Florida’s Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships is PO Box 114025, Gainesville, FL 32611-4025.
You may use UF’s Federal School Code– 001535–instead of our mailing address when you complete the FAFSA.
- How do I apply for financial aid?
File a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) using FAFSA on the Web. You may apply as early as December 2023 for the 2024-25 academic year. Students must reapply each year—financial aid is not renewed automatically.
To receive the best financial aid offer, complete the FAFSA as early as possible.In order for UF Student Financial Aid and Scholarships to consider you for a financial aid package, you must be a degree-seeking, admitted student.
More information is available on SFA’s site, on the “How To Apply” page.
The Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships (SFA) in S-107 Criser Hall, is UF’s financial aid office.
- How can I check my financial aid application status?
Get an update on your financial aid file online by using UF’s ONE.UF system.
You will need your Gatorlink username and password to use ONE.UF.
Using ONE.UF, you can find information about:
- documents still needed to complete your financial aid file;
- what aid you have been awarded;
- and what money has already been disbursed.
You may also visit a financial aid adviser in the OneStop.
You can also print out your financial aid summary for your own use or to provide to agencies requesting copies of your financial aid offer letter.
The Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships (SFA) in S-107 Criser Hall, is UF’s financial aid office.
- If I am not eligible for need-based financial aid, is anything else available?
Many scholarships, loans, and employment programs that are not based on need are available to UF students.
Numerous scholarships are available based on academic or other achievement, rather than financial need. Most of these scholarships are awarded through the admissions process or by the individual colleges. Some are based on both financial need and academics.
Students searching for college-awarded aid may want to use SFA’s Scholarship Search Engine, a comprehensive database of college-awarded aid at the University of Florida. Other scholarship resources are available at https://www.sfa.ufl.edu/search/other-scholarship-resources/.
For more detailed information, go to the Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships website.
Students interested in loans (like Federal Direct PLUS Loans; Federal Unsubsidized Stafford Student Loans, and others) should view the Student Financial Affairs page on Loan Information. Further information on student loans is available at the Federal Student Loans site.
Several student employment programs are also available that are not based on need.
The Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships (SFA) in S-107 Criser Hall, is UF’s financial aid office.
- Should I apply for academic scholarships or grants after I file my FAFSA?
Scholarships and grants awarded by the UF financial aid office are based on financial need as demonstrated from the results of the FAFSA. If you file a FAFSA, you will automatically be considered for need-based scholarships and grants.
See the Financial Aid Calendar for application deadlines.
The normal time-frame for receiving award notification is March through June.
The Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships (SFA) in S-107 Criser Hall, is UF’s financial aid office.
- If my parents are divorced or separated, whose financial info goes on the FAFSA?
If your natural parents are separated or divorced, use the natural parent with whom you lived the most in the past 12 months. If you lived with neither parent, or lived with each parent an equal number of days, use the parent that provided the most financial support to you over the past 12 months. If that parent has remarried, you must also include the step parent’s financial information on the application, and parent and step parent should report themselves as married on the FAFSA.
Example: You have been living with your mother and stepfather for the past 12 months. You would use your mother’s income and stepfather’s income, and you would report on the FAFSA as the number in family: yourself, your mother, your stepfather, and any other children that they support. You also would report your mother’s marital status as married.
The Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships (SFA) in S-107 Criser Hall, is UF’s financial aid office.
- Will I be considered “Dependent” or” Independent” for financial aid purposes?
FAFSA on the Web has a convenient, easy to use Dependency Status Worksheet to aid students and parents in determining their dependency status.
The Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships (SFA) in S-107 Criser Hall, is UF’s financial aid office.
- What is UF’s school code to apply for financial aid on the FAFSA?
UF’s Title IV code is 001535.
You can find this code, as well as everything you ever wanted to know about financial aid, on UF’s Office for Student Financial Aid and Scholarships web page, and more specifically, SFA’s Applying For Aid page.
The Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships (SFA) in S-107 Criser Hall, is UF’s financial aid office.
- My parents don’t give me money. Am I “Independent” for financial aid purposes?
FAFSA on the Web has a convenient, easy to use online Dependency Status Worksheet to aid students and parents in determining their dependency status.
The Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships (SFA) in S-107 Criser Hall, is UF’s financial aid office.
- What is the annual tuition for a beginning freshmen?
The University Bursar keeps a current listing of cost per credit hour for both Florida residents and Non-Florida residents.
Undergraduate students normally take 12-15 credit hours per term, with two terms per year.
- I originally reported $2,000 in savings on my FAFSA. I have since purchased a car. Can I update the amount I have in savings?
No. You must report asset information as of the date you sign the original FAFSA. You cannot update your asset information. For more information see a financial aid adviser at the Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships (SFA) in S-107 Criser Hall (Office Hours).
- What is a “Standard Student Budget,” or “Average Cost of Attendance?”
The “Average Cost of Attendance” is the amount the University estimates it costs to attend college for the academic year. Costs include: tuition/fees, computer costs, books and supplies, housing, meals, transportation, clothing maintenance, health insurance, and personal expenses. Budgets are calculated for undergraduates, graduate students, and professional students, living on- and off-campus.
The Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships (SFA) in S-107 Criser Hall, is UF’s financial aid office.
- My parents got divorced, but they filed a joint federal tax return. How do I fill out the FAFSA?
When completing the FAFSA, only provide income information from the tax return for the parent who qualifies as your responsible parent.
- I’m going to be married during the school year for which I am applying for aid. Can I fill out my FAFSA as “married”?
No. You must indicate your marital status as of the date you are completing the FAFSA.
Academic Progress
- What are grad student financial aid “Satisfactory Academic Progress” guidelines?
University of Florida students receiving financial aid are required to be in good standing and maintain “satisfactory academic progress.” In general, graduate students must maintain a cumulative 2.0 GPA or the academic standards required by their department, whichever is higher; receive a degree after carrying 70 hours at the graduate level for a master’s degree, or 120 hours for a doctoral degree program; and earn 75% of their credit hours carried at the graduate level.
For more information see SFA’s Satisfactory Academic Progress page.
The Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships (SFA) in S-107 Criser Hall, is UF’s financial aid office.
- What is “Satisfactory Academic Progress” for financial aid purposes?
Satisfactory academic progress is a set of federal, state, and institutional guidelines for students receiving financial assistance. If a student fails to maintain satisfactory academic progress, s/he will be placed on warning, probation, suspension or termination status.
The Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships (SFA) in S-107 Criser Hall, is UF’s financial aid office.
- What happens to my financial aid status if I withdraw from school?
Depending upon when you withdraw from school, you may be required to repay a specified percentage of any aid you have received in the term in which you are withdrawing, since the funds you receive are designed to help you meet your living expenses for the entire term. Check with your financial aid adviser before withdrawing from school.
For more complete information see UF Withdrawal & Refunds Policies
The Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships (SFA) in S-107 Criser Hall, is UF’s financial aid office.