Online Schools That Accept FAFSA (and How to Get Financial Aid)
In today's digital age, online education has become increasingly popular, offering flexibility and accessibility to students seeking to advance their education while balancing work, family, and other commitments. However, the cost of tuition and other expenses can be a barrier for many individuals considering online programs. Fortunately, federal financial aid options, such as the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), are available to help eligible students cover the cost of their education at online schools.
What is FAFSA and How Does it Work?
FAFSA is a form provided by the U.S. Department of Education that collects information about a student's financial situation to determine their eligibility for federal financial aid programs, including grants, scholarships, work-study opportunities, and federal student loans. The information provided on the FAFSA is used to calculate the Expected Family Contribution (EFC), which is used by schools to determine the amount of financial aid a student may receive.
Online Schools That Accept FAFSA
Many online colleges and universities accept the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as part of their financial aid process. Here are some reputable online institutions that commonly accept FAFSA:
1. Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU)
SNHU offers a wide range of online degree programs, including undergraduate and graduate degrees in various fields such as business, healthcare, education, and liberal arts. The university is known for its affordable tuition, flexible scheduling options, and strong student support services.
Location: Manchester, New Hampshire
Phone: 877.455.7648
Email: [email protected]
2. Purdue University Global
Purdue University Global offers online programs designed for working adults seeking to advance their education and careers. With a diverse range of degree options, including bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs, Purdue Global provides rigorous academic instruction and personalized support to its students.
Location: West Lafayette, Indiana
Phone: 844-PURDUE-G (844-787-3834)
3. University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC)
UMGC specializes in providing online education to military personnel, veterans, and working adults. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degree programs, as well as certificate programs, in areas such as cybersecurity, business management, healthcare administration, and more.
Location: Fort Meade, Maryland
Phone: 301-621-9882
Email: [email protected]
4. Western Governors University (WGU)
WGU is a nonprofit online university that offers competency-based degree programs in fields such as business, education, healthcare, and information technology. Students progress through their coursework at their own pace, completing assessments to demonstrate mastery of the material.
Location: Millcreek, Utah
Phone: 801-274-3280
5. Arizona State University Online (ASU Online)
ASU Online offers a variety of online degree programs taught by the same faculty who teach on campus. The university provides a supportive online learning environment and offers degrees at the undergraduate and graduate levels in diverse areas such as engineering, nursing, social sciences, and more.
Location: Tempe, Arizona
Phone: 855-278-5080
6. Liberty University Online
Liberty University is one of the largest Christian universities in the world and offers a wide range of online degree programs with a Christian worldview perspective. Students can pursue degrees in areas such as business, education, psychology, theology, and criminal justice.
Location: Lynchburg, Virginia
Phone: 800-908-9946
Email: [email protected]
7. University of Florida Online (UF Online)
UF Online offers bachelor's degree programs in various fields, including business administration, computer science, nursing, and public relations. The university is known for its high academic standards and rigorous coursework delivered in a flexible online format.
Location: Gainesville, Florida
Phone: 855-994-2867
Email: [email protected]
8. Penn State World Campus
Penn State World Campus offers more than 150 online programs, including undergraduate and graduate degrees, certificates, and minors. The university provides comprehensive student support services, including academic advising, career counseling, and technical support.
Location: State College, Pennsylvania
Phone: 814-865-4700
9. Grand Canyon University (GCU) Online
GCU offers a variety of online degree programs designed for working professionals, including bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees. The university emphasizes experiential learning and offers opportunities for students to gain practical skills through internships and field experiences.
Location: Phoenix, Arizona
Phone: 855-428-5673
10. Walden University
Walden University offers online degree programs in fields such as education, healthcare, business, psychology, and public administration. The university is committed to social change and offers programs that focus on leadership, diversity, and advocacy.
Location: Minneapolis, Minnesota
Phone: 800-925-3368
Email: [email protected]
Top Programs
How to Apply for Financial Aid?
To apply for federal financial aid, including grants, scholarships, work-study, and loans, students must complete the FAFSA form online at fafsa.ed.gov. The FAFSA is available annually starting October 1st for the following academic year, and students are encouraged to submit their application as early as possible to maximize their eligibility for aid.
When completing the FAFSA, students will need to provide the below information:
Personal Information:
Your Social Security Number (SSN)
Your date of birth
Your legal name as it appears on official government documents
Financial Information:
Records of your income, including W-2 forms, tax returns, and other earnings statements
Information about your parents' income and assets, if you are considered a dependent student
Records of untaxed income, such as child support, interest income, and veterans' benefits
Bank statements and investment records, including savings and checking account balances, stocks, bonds, and other assets
Dependency Status:
Details about your marital status and living arrangements
Information about any dependents you support financially
School Information:
The name and federal school code of the colleges or universities you are interested in attending
The academic year for which you are applying for financial aid (e.g., 2023-2024)
Additional Information:
Alien Registration Number (if you are not a U.S. citizen or eligible noncitizen)
Documentation of any special circumstances that may affect your financial situation, such as medical expenses, unusual expenses, or changes in income
Once the FAFSA is processed, students will receive a Student Aid Report (SAR) summarizing their eligibility for federal financial aid programs.
In addition to federal financial aid, students may also be eligible for state-based aid, institutional scholarships, private scholarships, and other forms of financial assistance. It's important for students to research and apply for all available aid opportunities to help reduce their out-of-pocket expenses.
