Florida Student Assistance Programs
Florida students access state grants, federal work-study, loan programs, and emergency assistance through college financial aid offices and the Office of Student Financial Assistance.
First Generation Matching Grant Program
This program encourages Florida universities to support students whose parents did not attend college.
What it provides: Need-based grants for first-generation college students
Assistance: Matching grants varying by institution; supplements other financial aid.
Eligibility: Must be first-generation; financial need determined by FAFSA.
Who may qualify:
- Florida residents who are first in their family to earn a bachelor's degree
- Undergraduates with demonstrated financial need
- Students at participating Florida universities
Requirements:
- FAFSA completion
- First-generation status verification
- Enrollment at participating institution
How to apply: File FAFSA; participating universities automatically consider eligible students.
Official source: First Gen Matching Grant
Federal Work-Study (Florida Colleges)
Florida's large university system offers extensive work-study opportunities in research, community service, and campus jobs.
What it provides: Part-time employment for students with financial need
Assistance: Earned wages for on- or off-campus employment.
Eligibility: Award amount set by financial aid office based on need and available funds.
Who may qualify:
- Undergraduate and graduate students with FAFSA-demonstrated need
- Students at participating Florida institutions
- Students able to work while enrolled
Requirements:
- FAFSA with work-study interest indicated
- Enrollment at participating college
- Job placement through career services
How to apply: Indicate work-study interest on FAFSA; contact financial aid office for job placement.
Official source: Federal Work-Study
Florida Public Postsecondary Career Education Student Assistance Grant
Supports Florida's workforce development pipeline by funding career and technical education students.
What it provides: Need-based grants for career certificate and diploma programs
Assistance: Grant amounts based on available funding and demonstrated need.
Eligibility: Must be enrolled in eligible career education program at public institution.
Who may qualify:
- Florida residents in career certificate or applied technology diploma programs
- Students at Florida College System institutions
- Students with financial need
Requirements:
- FAFSA completion
- Enrollment in eligible certificate/diploma program
- Florida residency
How to apply: File FAFSA and enroll in eligible program at Florida College System institution.
Official source: Career Education Grant