FAQ

What is Satisfactory Academic Progress?
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 or suspension status.
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What are the "Satisfactory Academic Progress" guidelines for undergraduate students?

Students must have a cumulative 2.0 gade point average by the end of 60 attempted academic credit hours.

Students must earn a baccalaureate degree prior to attempting 150 credit hours.

Students must earn 75% of all credit hours attempted.

For more information, see Academic Progress for Undergraduate Students.

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What are the "Satisfactory Academic Progress" guidelines for graduate students?
Since many courses require research projects which take more than a semester to complete, grades of “I” are routinely posted until the coursework has been finished. Therefore, the following satisfactory progress standards have been designed to take this grading practice into account.

Qualitative Measure of Progress
Students must maintain a minimum 2.0 cumulative grade point average or meet the academic standards required by their departments, whichever is higher.

Time-Frame for Completing Degree Objectives

Students will be ineligible for aid if they do not attain their degree objectives after carrying the maximum number of credit hours listed below (whether or not they have received aid for all terms):

70 credit hours at the graduate level for a master's degree program.

164 credit hours at the graduate level for a doctor of pharmacy degree.

100 credit hours at the graduate level for a specialist's degree program (including master's degree hours).

120 credit hours at the graduate level for a doctoral degree program (including master's degree hours).

For more information, see Academic Progress for Graduate Students.

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How do "Satisfactory Academic Progress" guidelines apply to post-baccalaureate students or unclassified students?
Students enrolled in postbaccalaureate studies must petition the Academic Progress Appeals Committee to continue to receive financial aid. Postbaccalaureate students must meet the same academic requirements as undergraduates, as specified under I.A.1. above. The types of financial aid available to postbaccalaureate students will depend on the student’s degree-seeking status.

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Can I appeal if I am suspended from financial aid for failing to maintain satisfactory academic progress?
Students who feel they have extenuating circumstances that have contributed to their failure to maintain satisfactory academic progress may petition to the Academic Progress Appeals Committee (APAC) for a reassessment of their status. If you are suspended or terminated from financial aid, you will receive notification via email with instructions for obtaining a financial aid Academic Progress Petition form. Return it to S-107 Criser Hall.

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.Withdrawing from school will also affect the percentage of credit hours completed and may impact future financial aid eligibility. Check with your financial aid adviser before withdrawing from school.

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Application

How do I apply for financial aid?
Complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)and return it to the federal processor as soon as possible AFTER January 1. Be sure to submit your FAFSA to the federal processor in time for them to process it (about three weeks) and transmit the results to us by our "on-time" application deadline. You may prefer to apply online by using FAFSA on the Web. We strongly encourage this method of applying since it is faster and generally more accurate because the online version has built-in edits. Apply for financial aid at the same time, or even before, you apply for admission.

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When should I apply?
The University of Florida has a March 15th "On-Time" financial aid deadline. This means that Student Financial Affairs must receive the results of your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or your Renewal FAFSA from the federal processor and you must be admitted to the University by the deadline for your application to be considered "on-time." Meeting the deadline gives you priority for all funds. Late applicants are considered for whatever aid remains when their application file is complete.

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Why should I apply by the "On-Time" Deadline?
Students who have a complete file by the "On-Time" deadline are more likely to receive funds by the time school starts in the fall. Students who apply by the priority date are also more likely to receive funds from all programs for which they are eligible. After the priority dates, funding in many programs, especially campus-based programs such as Federal Work-Study, SEOG, and Turner Grant may be exhausted. Applying early is always to the student's advantage.

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Do I need to reapply each year?
Yes. Each year you must file either the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), or the Renewal FAFSA if you receive one from the federal processor, for the appropriate academic year and submit the documents that are requested. You must also maintain satisfactory academic progress in order to qualify for aid each year.

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Can and should I check my financial aid application status online? If so, how?
You can and should check your financial aid application status regularly. To do this, use UF’s ISIS (Integrated Student Information System). Through ISIS, you can get information about: documents still needed to complete your financial aid file; what aid you have been awarded; what money has already been disbursed; and whether your fees for the current semester have been deferred. You can also print out your award summary for your own use or to provide to agencies requesting copies of your award letter.

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If my parents are divorced or separated, whose financial data should be used when I'm completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (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.

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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.

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My parents don't claim me on their tax return and don't give me any money. Can I file as "Independent"?
Whether or not your parent(s) claimed you on their tax return has no bearing on being able to be considered independent. The Higher Education Act of 1992 established requirements for establishing independence. If you answer "YES" to any of the following questions, you are considered "Self-Supporting" for financial aid purposes. See "Will I be considered 'Dependent' or 'Independent'?

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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. You cannot update your marital status once you have filed your FAFSA.

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I have lived with my grandparents since I was very young and they are my legal guardians. Should I complete the FAFSA using their information?
No. You cannot use anyone's information other than natural parents' unless you have been legally adopted. You must contact a financial aid advisor if you have special circumstances or are unable to obtain parental information.

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I originally reported $2,000 in savings on my FAFSA. I have since purchased a car with the savings. Can I correct this?
No. You must report asset information as of the date you sign the original FAFSA. You cannot update your asset information.

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I deposit my financial aid in my savings account and withdraw it as I need it. Do I need to include the financial aid when I report my "Cash, Savings, Checking" on my FAFSA?
No. Do not include any funds from financial aid grant, loan, work or scholarship programs which you may have in your savings and/or checking accounts.

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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. It is important to start this process early.

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When is the soonest I can find out about my financial aid package of scholarships?
The 2007-08 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form may be filed after January 1, 2007. The University of Florida will use the results from the FAFSA to determine your eligibility for federal and institutional need-based programs. The on-time application date for financial aid is March 15 and applicants who meet this deadline are given priority for aid programs administered by the Office for Student Financial Affairs. Award notifications for on-time applicants are mailed in early April.

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Disbursements

When and how will I get my aid check? *full-time students
University Financial Services (UFS), S-108 Criser Hall, disburses financial aid money (scholarships, grants, and loans) to students as soon as possible after the first day of classes, after the funds have been received by the University and the University has ascertained that the student is registered for the required number of credit hours to receive aid, and has fulfilled any other eligibility requirements necessary.

UFS uses a system which applies students' aid awards towards their University financial obligations (e.g., fees, tuition, and campus housing) and then issues the balance to the student. In general, (1) if a student has signed up for direct deposit, UFS electronically transfers their funds into their bank accounts, or, (2) UFS mails students' aid checks to their local addresses. Students not signed up for direct deposit should be sure their "local Home" address is correct in the UF Directory. Students who want to sign up for Direct Deposit and have not yet completed the form should apply at the ISIS Web site.

*Students who are less than full-time will have their funds held until after the end of the drop/add period. At that time, adjustments to the cost of attendance will be made based on actual tuition amounts. This recalculation may reduce the amount of your financial aid award.

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What is "Loan Entrance Counseling"?
First-time Federal Direct Stafford Loan and Federal Perkins Loans borrowers must complete Entrance Counseling before their loan funds can be disbursed to them. First-time borrowers can access Entrance Counseling using UF’s ISIS system on the UF Web site. For more information, call UFS at (352) 392-0737.

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How will I receive my Florida Bright Futures Scholarship award?
At the beginning of each semester the Florida Department of Education will forward funds to the University. As soon as the University has determined the credit hours for which you were enrolled at the end of the drop/add period, the funds will be deposited directly into your checking account if you have signed up for direct deposit; or you will be mailed a check. In either case, financial obligation to the University will be deducted and the balance, if any, will be issued to you.

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How are private donor scholarships paid?
Most scholarships, both institutional and private, will be applied to your University charges (i.e., tuition fees, housing, etc.) each semester. If excess funds exist after all University charges have been paid, University Financial Services will deposit the funds directly into your bank account if you have signed up for direct deposit, or will mail you a check for the balance. Before payment will be made to you, the University must confirm that you are enrolled full time. If you know that you will be enrolled less than full time, you will need to have your donor or department contact Student Financial Affairs' Scholarship Department to approve payment of your scholarship(s).

Your 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 financial aid office automatically credits the scholarship toward your current semester bill (the semester in which the scholarship check is received). Any remaining funds after your UF debts are paid will be disbursed to you.

If you receive the scholarship funds directly from the donor that are made payable to only you or in cash, you are obligated to notify us. If you have been awarded need-based financial aid (federal, state, college, etc.) we 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.

In lieu of donor instructions, checks received $1,000 or more are split between Fall and Spring semesters. For example: SFA recieves a $2,000 scholarship check in August. It will be distributed $1,000 in Fall and $1,000 in Spring.

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Eligibility

Can the University estimate if I am eligible?
The University cannot determine the amount of students' awards until the results of their FAFSAs/Renewal FAFSAs have been received from the federal processor. Your eligibility is determined by the federal processor from information you and your family supply on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or the Renewal FAFSA. The federal processor determines your "Expected Family Contribution" according to a formula supplied by the U.S. Congress and then forwards this information to the University. Only then can the University begin to determine the amounts of students' awards. Student Financial Affairs begins to mail out the first student awards in late March/early April, so the best way to find out for how much you will qualify is to fill out the FAFSA early to get the process started. Meanwhile, students and parents might want to use the on-line EFC Estimators located on The Financial Aid Information Page at www.finaid.org to help estimate their expected family contributions.

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How is my "financial need" determined?
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 formula called "federal methodology." 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-EFC=Student Financial Need.

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What is a "Standard Student Budget," or "Average Cost of Attendance?"
The Standard Student Budget 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.

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Will our savings and other assets be considered when our financial need is being determined?
Although family assets, such as stocks and bonds, net business worth, and savings are reported on the FAFSA, unless the family meets specific tax filing and income guidelines, contributions from assets are not calculated. When assets are used in the federal methodology formula, the rules set by the government provide, among other things, allowances for retirement needs in computing this contribution. If there are any remaining assets to be considered after taking retirement needs into consideration, they are only assessed at a 12% rate.

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Is any financial aid available at UF for those in prison to take correspondence courses?
Students incarcerated in federal and state penal institutions aren't eligible for Pell grants, but students incarcerated in local penal institutions are. Students incarcerated by jurisdictions defined as a a state in the law, such as the District of Columbia, are considered to be in a state penal institution are aren't eligible for Pell grants. A student isn't considered incarcerated if she is in a halfway house or home detention or is sentenced to serve only on weekends.

In order to be eligible for Pell Grants, the student must be enrolled in a Bachelor's Degree program at UF.

The cost of attendance for students who are incarcerated in local penal institutions is limited to tuition and fees and the price of books and supplies specifically related to the student's course of study.

To apply for a Pell Grant, applicants must complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form. It can be completed online at www.fafsa.ed.gov. Paper versions can be obtained from the federal government by calling the following toll-free number: 1-800-433-3243.

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Will I be considered "Dependent" or" Independent"?
The federal government has established criteria for classfying financial aid recipients as dependent or independent. If you are dependent (not self-supporting according to federal criteria), your parents' assets and income as well as your own are considered when determining your financial need. If you are independent, your need is evaluated solely on your own and your spouse’s income and assets.

If you check “YES” to any of the items in “Step Three” on the 2007-08 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or Renewal FAFSA, you are considered “independent” for financial aid purposes:

born before January 1, 1984;

enrolled in a masters or doctorate program (beyond a bachelor's degree) in 2007-08;

legally married at the time the student signs the application;

has children for whom the student provides more than 50% support;

has legal dependents other than a spouse or children who receive more than half their support from the student;

is an orphan or a ward of the court (or has been a ward of the court until reaching the age of 18); or

is a veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces or currently in active duty(Army, Air Force, Navy, Marine Corps, or Coast Guard).

If you cannot answer “YES” to any item, you are considered dependent on your parent(s) and must include parental financial information on your financial forms. If you think you have extenuating circumstances that would exempt you from including parental information, contact a financial aid adviser at SFA.

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What if I have unusual circumstances?
If any of the following circumstances apply to you/your family, check with your 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 or child support) by you, your parents, or your spouse.

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If I am not eligible for aid based on need, is anything else available?
Many scholarships are not based on need, but rather on academic or other achievement. Refer to the information supplied under "Scholarships."

Some loans are also independent of financial need. All students should review the following loans for eligibility and terms: Federal Direct Parent PLUS Loans; Federal Direct Graduate PLUS Loans, Federal Unsubsidized Stafford Student Loan.

Several employment programs are available which are not based on need:

State-funded Other Personnel Services (OPS) Jobs program. To be eligible you must have a 2.0 grade point average and be enrolled for at least six credit hours per semester. To apply go to the Student Employment Counter in S-107 Criser Hall for a UF Work Permit and to check the job listings;

Cooperative Education. This program, sponsored by the UF Career Resource Center at the Reitz Union, combines actual paid work experience with students' academic curriculums. To qualify for this career-oriented program you must have completed your freshman year with at least a "C" average. For more information, call the Co-op Office at (352) 392-8239.

Off-Campus Jobs. Check the Student Employment Jobs lists in the courtyard outside Student Financial Affairs, or follow the job listings link on our Web site.

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Employment

What is Federal Work-Study?
Federal Work-Study is a need-based financial aid award made to enrolled, degree-seeking students. Because it is a student job, most employers provide flexibility in scheduling students' work hours. Work-study employment operates the same way as other jobs, with the following difference: income earned from work-study employment does not count as income for the purposes of calculating a student's financial aid package. Because work-study awards are given to help pay for a student's education in the year in which the award is received, the government does not expect the student to save any of those funds to pay for subsequent years of education. The amount a student can earn through work-study is limited: the work-study award represents the amount a student can earn in a work-study job. 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.

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I want a Federal Work-Study job. How can I get one?
Because work-study is a need-based financial aid award, to qualify recipients must apply for financial aid and be determined to have financial need. To apply for financial aid, fill out the Free Application For Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form, which is available at the Office for Student Financial Affairs, community colleges and high schools, and directly from the federal government. Mail this form to the federal processor, who will determine how much money you and your family can contribute to the cost of your education according to a federal formula. This amount is called the Expected Family Contribution (EFC). Once we receive this information, we will determine whether you qualify for work-study, as well as other financial aid including loans, grants and scholarships. Please note that to be considered for Federal Work-Study as part of your financial aid award, you MUST apply early in the year before the mid-March "on-time" deadline, since work-study funds are often depleted early in the year.

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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 periodically to discuss work-study availability and/or other work options.

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How do I get paid for Federal Work-Study earnings?
Unlike other forms of financial aid, work-study money is not disbursed in a lump sum at the beginning of the semester. Students who earn work-study receive a paycheck every two weeks, and the amount of that paycheck is determined by the number of hours the student has worked during the applicable pay period multiplied by the student's pay rate. Note also that these funds are not automatically applied to a student's university obligations, but rather are paid directly to the student. Pay rates are at least the state minimum wage of $6.40 per hour.

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How do I go about finding a job?
Student jobs are now posted at two locations:

Through the job board at www.sfa.ufl.edu/job.html, which lists off-campus jobs posted by community agencies.

Through the main UF job listings at http://jobs.ufl.edu, which now lists all on-campus Federal Work-Study and OPS positions.

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Once I find a job I'm interested in, what do I do?
Generally, all you have to do is call the contact person listed on the job postings and set up 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, just call the contact person. Students going to an interview for either Federal Work-Study or OPS jobs must take a UF Work Permit with them to the interview. UF Work Permits are obtained from the Student Employment Office in S-107 Criser Hall. You can also request a work-permit by phone by calling the phone-in work permit request line: 392-0296. You can ask that the work permit be mailed to your hiring department or held at the student employment counter in S-107 Criser for you to pick up.

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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.

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Financial Aid Awards

Can my award change?
Yes. As stated in the award letter information that is provided on ISIS under "Awards and Disbursements", initial financial aid awards are our best estimate of what you are eligible to receive. Most changes in awards, however, 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 need to change.

You receive any additional outside resource, such as a privately awarded scholarship, which was not listed on your award letter.

You provided incorrect data on your FAFSA or Renewal FAFSA.

You do not maintain academic progress as required by the University of Florida's Financial Aid Academic Progress Guidelines (published in the University Undergraduate Catalog and in the Gator Aid financial aid handbook).

You are suspended by your college or by the University.

You do not enroll for the required number of hours to receive aid through programs awarded you.

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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 that is not listed on ISIS under "Awards and Disbursement", you must report the scholarship(s) on the "Additional Aid Reporting" page. If you recieve an outside scholarship, check with your financial aid adviser to find out how or if it will affect your total package.

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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.

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How does textbook deferment work at UF and what do I need to do to receive a textbook deferment at the UF bookstore?
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. 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 "ISIS" at http://www.isis.ufl.edu/ .

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What do I have to do receive aid as a transient student?
You may only receive aid if you are going to attend one of the other State Universities. You cannot receive aid if you will be attending a community college or any other institution. In addition, you are required to provide the financial aid office with a copy of your approved Transient Student Form by the following deadlines:

Fall semester - August 1
Spring Semester - December 1
Summer semester - May 1

Failure to meet these deadlines will result in the cancellation of your financial aid.

Upon receipt of the transient form but no earlier than the end of the drop-add period for the term you will be enrolled as a transient student, the financial aid coordinator will mail a consortium agreement to the host school. Once SFA receives the completed consortium agreement, financial aid budget adjustments and/or award revisions will be made as needed.

You are also required to send SFA an official enrollment certificate from the school you are attending.

When the consortium agreement and certification of enrollment have BOTH been received, your funds will then be disbursed via direct deposit to your bank account or mailed to your local address as listed with the Office of the University Registrar.

Aid for transient students is normally not ready to be disbursed until 4-6 weeks into the semester. Therefore you, the student, are responsible for meeting any registration and fee payment deadlines at the host school. They do not have to offer you deferred payment deadlines even though you have financial aid.

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Financial Aid and Taxes

Do I need to include financial aid I have received as "taxable income" on my income tax return?
Yes. Students who receive financial aid must report portions 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 nonexempt, so money spent on these items is subject to income tax. If you report financial aid on your tax returns, be sure to list the same amount on your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as the answer to Worksheet C.

For more information, consult the IRS, your income tax form instruction booklet, your FAFSA instructions, and/or your personal tax adviser.

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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 employment at the university, 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 then also report them as exclusions on the FAFSA Worksheet C. When filling out the FAFSA, read the FAFSA booklet instructions for Worksheet C carefully.

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How do I contact the IRS?
Local IRS offices cannot provide tax return copies or transcripts. To get photocopies of your IRS forms: call 1-800-829-1040. The federal IRS site is http://www.irs.gov.

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Loans

How does the Federal Direct Stafford Loan Program work?
The Federal Direct Loan Program consists of Federal Direct Subsidized Stafford Loans, Federal Direct Unsubsidized Stafford Loans, and Federal Direct PLUS Loans. With the Federal Direct Loan Program, the U. S. Department of Education acts as the lender and delivers loan proceeds to students directly through the schools. To apply, follow the application instructions in the current year's Gator Aid Application Guide. Or, go to "How to Apply" on our web site. If you are awarded a Federal Direct Stafford Loan at UF, please be aware that before you can receive your funds you must complete three requirements:

complete an electronic Master Promissory Note at dlenote.ed.gov

complete a first-time borrowers Entrance Counseling session on ISIS under the heading "Financial Services"

you must "accept" the funds awarded to you. Go to ISIS, under "Financial Aid". Link to the "Awards and Disbursements" screen for the correct academic year. You maybe also reduce or cancel your loan funds on this site.

*05-06 only

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What is the difference between a Federal Direct Subsidized Stafford Loan and a Federal Direct Unsubsidized Stafford Loan?
Federal Direct Subsidized Stafford Loans are need-based, federally subsidized student loans which have repayment deferred until after you graduate, withdraw or enroll less than half time. Interest is paid by the federal government until the end of the six-month grace period after you drop to less than half-time enrollment.

Federal Direct Unsubsidized Stafford Loans are non-need-based loans for students who do not qualify, in whole or in part, for Subsidized Stafford Loans. "Unsubsidized" means that the interest is not deferred while you are in school. Because unsubsidized loans are not need-based, you may borrow funds over and above your eligibility for Subsidized Stafford Loan funds, either up to your cost of education minus other aid, or up to Federal Direct Program limits, whichever is less. Note: to be eligible for an Unsubsidized Stafford, you must have first applied for a Federal Pell Grant and a Subsidized Stafford

For Unsubsidized Staffords, since the federal government does not pay the interest while you are in school, you must pay all interest that accrues while you are in school, during the grace period, and during any periods of authorized deferment. You will have the following options: (1) making monthly or quarterly payments to the federal loan servicer, or (2) you and the federal loan servicer may agree to add the interest to the principal of your loan. This is called "capitalization". Capitalizing interest has the disadvantage that you end up paying more interest over the life of the loan because you are also paying interest on the accrued interest.

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How much can I borrow through the Federal Direct Subsidized Stafford Loan Program?
Beginning with academic year 2007-2008, undergraduate students may borrow the following amounts: first-year students may borrow up to $3,500 per year, second-year students up to $4,500, and third to fifth year students up to $5,500. The cumulative total that undergraduate students may borrow is $23,000. Graduate students may borrow $8,500 a year up to a $65,500 cumulative total, minus what they borrowed as undergraduates.

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How much can I borrow through the Federal Direct Unsubsidized Stafford Loan Program?
Federal Direct Unsubsidized Stafford Loan Program loan limits for dependent undergraduate students are the same as for Federal Direct Stafford Loans, less amounts borrowed through that program. Beginning with academic year 2007-2008, independent undergraduate students may borrow the following amounts, less amounts already received through Federal Subsidized Stafford Loans: first-year students, $7,500; second-year students, $8,500; third-to-fifth year students, $10,500; up to a $46,000 aggregate total. Graduate professional students may borrow $20,500 per year, up to $138,500 total, including undergraduate loans.

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Health Professions Loan Limits for academic year 2007-2008 and beyond:
(All aggregate amounts include amounts already received in Subsidized Stafford funds). Dependent undergraduate pharmacy students, $5,500 per year up to an aggregate total of $23,000; independent undergraduate pharmacy students, $23,000 per year up to an aggregate total of $70,625; graduate pharmacy students, $33,000 up to an aggregate total of $189,125; professional medical, dental, or veterinary medicine students, $40,500 up to an aggregate total of $189,125.

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What is a Federal Direct PLUS Loan?
Through the Federal Direct PLUS Loan program and Federal Direct Graduate PLUS Loan program, parents of dependent undergraduate students, as well as graduate and professional students may borrow up to the cost of education per child enrolled in higher education, minus other financial aid. Borrowers must have no adverse credit histories. The interest on these loans begins to accumulate on the date of the first loan disbursement. Repayment begins on the day after the loan is fully disbursed. The first loan payment is due within 60 days after the final loan disbursement. For new borrowers, July 1, 2006 or after, the program has a fixed interest rate of 7.9%. A 4% origination fee is charged at disbursement.

To be eligible:

the borrower must be a parent or eligible step-parent of a dependent undergraduate student; or a professional or graduate student

for fall, spring, and/or summer funds, the student must be enrolled at least half-time

the student must maintain satisfactory academic progress

the borrower and the student must not have defaulted on or owe a refund to any previous aid program

the borrower and student must be U.S. citizens, nationals or permanent residents

the borrower must have no adverse credit history.

To apply:

pick up a Federal Direct Graduate PLUS Loan Application or a Federal Direct PLUS Loan Application for Parents from one of the customer service windows in S-107 Criser Hall or print from the SFA Web site's Forms page .

when the loan is processed, go to dlenote.ed.gov to either complete a Master Promissory Note or verify that one is already on file.

For more information, please visit the Federal Direct Loan Program portion of our Web site.
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What is a Federal Direct Stafford Loan Master Promissory Note?
A 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.

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I received my award letter with a 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, go to ISIS. Under "Financial Aid" select "Awards and Disbursements" under the appropriate academic year.

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Miscellaneous

Who is my Financial Aid Adviser?
Student Financial Affairs (SFA) Financial Aid Advising Teams provide personal financial aid counseling for students and prospective students and their families. Customer service is comprised of four teams, each composed of two financial aid advisers. Each aid applicant is assigned to one of the four teams according to the last two digits of his or her UFID. For Aid Advising Team information, check out Advisers page.

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What is the 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 Gator Aid financial aid handbook. Details on the Withdrawal and Refunds policy are available from the Office for Student Financial Affairs on request.

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What is the GRE (Graduate Record Examination) Fee Reduction Program and how do I know if I'm eligible?
The University of Florida and the Educational Testing Service of Princeton, NJ, offer a fee reduction program for taking the GRE. GRE fee reduction vouchers are available (once only) to financial aid recipients who are seniors who meet all fee reduction voucher eligibility requirements. Vouchers can be used for both the General and Subject GRE tests. GRE fee reduction vouchers are given out on a first-come, first-serve basis at the UF Office for Student Financial Affairs, S-107 Criser Hall.

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How does textbook deferment work at UF and what do I need to do to receive a textbook deferment at the UF bookstore?
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. 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 "ISIS" at http://www.isis.ufl.edu/ .

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Scholarships

How do I apply for and receive an academic scholarship through the University?
Scholarships are coordinated by several offices at the University of Florida (UF). Academic achievement scholarships (such as, National Merit, Honors Minority) for entering and transfer students are coordinated by the Admissions Office, and such students are automatically considered for these when they have a complete application on file at the UF Admissions Office. The application deadline is usually in January or February. Check with the admission office for this date. Some funds from private donors are on deposit at UF and awarded and/or administered by Student Financial Affairs. In general, no special application is required. Undergraduate students are considered automatically if they apply for financial aid and meet basic eligibility criteria and any special requirements of the donors. Basic eligibility for these scholarships depends upon: (1) financial need, (2) 3.0 or better grade point average, and (3) full-time enrollment). Scholarships are also available through individual departments and colleges within the university. Students should check with their departments or colleges for more information. Consult the Gator Aid Handbook available from S-107 Criser Hall for more information or view it online at our SFA Web site.

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What is the Florida Bright Futures Scholarship Program?
The Bright Futures Scholarship Program (FBFS) is the umbrella program for three state of Florida scholarships based on academic achievement in high school. They are the Florida Academic Scholars Award, the Florida Gold Seal Vocational Scholars Award and the Florida Merit Scholars Award. These programs are funded by the state lottery to reward all Florida high school graduates who merit recognition of high academic achievement and enroll in an eligible Florida public or private postsecondary educational institution within three years of high school graduation. Each of the three scholarships offered within the FBFS program have specific criteria that must be met.

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How does the Florida Bright Futures Program calculate my GPA for awarding my scholarship?
Information on the criteria used by the Florida Office for Student Financial Assistance in Tallahassee for determining initial award eligibility can be found on the Florida Bright Futures Web site.

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What prepaid tuition programs are available?
The Florida Prepaid College Board offers two programs that assist with Florida tuition costs. The Florida Prepaid College Plan locks in the cost of college tuition, local fees, and dormitory housing at today's prices. The Florida College Investment Plan provides an affordable way to save for college with a wide range of investment options and tax benefits. For more information, call 1-800-552-GRAD.

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HOW should I apply for the Florida Bright Futures Scholarship (FBFS) Program?
For information contact your high school guidance office or the Florida Department of Education, Office of Student Financial Assistance, 1940 N. Monroe Street, Suite 70, Tallahassee, Florida 32303-4759; 1-888-827-2004 (toll-free); They also maintain a Web site. Please check with the Florida Department of Education for information about and deadlines for applying for 2001-2002.

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Will your FBFS award be affected if you receive funds from Florida Prepaid College Program or a private scholarship?
Eligible recipients will receive an FBFS award regardless of other financial aid or prepaid tuition. The dollar award will not be decreased if you are receiving money from other aid programs. If you are receiving need-based aid, however, your need-based aid may be decreased to allow receipt of the FBFS Award.

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How do Florida Bright Futures Scholarships and the Florida Prepaid College Plan affect each other?
Students participating in the Florida Prepaid Plan who receive a Florida Bright Futures award can receive benefits from both plans. Student tuition and fees is paid by the Florida Prepaid Plan up to the amount of their eligibility. The Florida Bright Futures Award pays any remaining amount of tuition and fees, then any outstanding university bills. Any remaining balance is issued to the student. Example: if a student's tuition fees are $1,150 (15 credit hours), their Prepaid will pay approximately $912 of that ($60.78 per credit hour). This leaves a balance of approximately $238 that is then subtracted from their FBFS. The difference is used to cover other UF debts, with the remainder going to the student via check or direct deposit.

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What are Private Scholarships?
Private scholarships are awards provided by organizations outside of the University such as Elks, Rotary, your local high school, national organizations, etc. You apply directly to the organization sponsoring the scholarship. The organization then selects the recipient(s) and sends the funds to the University to apply to your university costs.

All such outside scholarships must be reported to and processed through the Office for Student Financial Affairs' Scholarship area. If you know you will be receiving a private scholarship (e.g., Elks, Rotary Club, etc.), notify us immediately in writing, by phone at (352) 392-1275, or by completing an electronic Additional Aid form by going to ISIS under "Financial Aid". Click on "Additional Aid Reporting" for the appropriate academic year. This will help avoid delays later if we need to adjust other financial aid you might also be receiving.

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If I get a private scholarship, what impact does this have on my eligibility for other financial aid?
If you receive a private scholarship award, this may impact the rest of your financial aid award since the combination of all financial aid and scholarships cannot exceed your "need." First, we will reduce loans that are offered to you, then other aid. We will mail you a revised award letter to notify you of the changes. If you know that you will be receiving a private scholarship, please contact our office as soon as possible to prevent receiving an overaward, and having to repay aid you have already received.

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Where can I look for scholarships?
Student Financial Affairs publishes an annual listing of all scholarship opportunities at UF in our financial aid handbook, Gator Aid: Scholarships and Financial Aid at the University of Florida. You can also check out the scholarships section under "Programs" on the SFA Web site

SFA's Web page also provides links to free online scholarship searches such as College Boards Fund Finder and fastWEB. FastWEB provides listings of scholarships, fellowships, grants, and loans, creating a private mailbox for you and compiling a list of various awards in your mailbox. Your mailbox is updated daily. ExPAN is a free web version of the College Board's FUND FINDER scholarship database. The database is updated annually.

SFA's Scholarship Office maintains an SFA Resource Center, located in S-107 Criser Hall. Computers in this room enable students to access our electronic scholarship bulletin board, as well as three free scholarship services, and listings of scholarships maintained by academic departments, and many other such resources. Many scholarship applications are available in the Resource Center. Students may also use the computers to apply for financial aid online via FAFSA on the Web.

Other sources include: high school guidance counselors; local public library or university library; community or church organizations; local businesses; parents' employers; magazines and newspapers; consumer product organizations; asking friends, parents, teachers, counselors, and family members to watch for scholarships; and at www.finaid.com.

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What are some tips on applying for scholarships?
READ THE ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS of the scholarships you are interested in FIRST. Save yourself time and energy by not applying for scholarships with qualifications you don't match. If you meet the basic requirements for an award, APPLY! Apply to as many sources as possible. Be complete and concise, but also creative. Apply as far in advance as possible. Avoid spelling and grammatical errors; have someone else read and proofread your application before you send it off. Never talk yourself out of applying. You have as much of a chance to receive an award as any other applicant. Always apply for need-based financial aid first. Get a large calendar and plot the deadlines of applications; look at it every day. Set up a scholarship file which has copies of your letters, transcripts, and personal statements to save time. NEVER become discouraged! Don't take rejection personally. The days of "If you work hard and get good grades you will automatically get scholarships" are gone. Universities would love to award EVERY deserving student, but limited scholarship dollars make this impossible. Look at applying for scholarships as a PART-TIME JOB. If you spend ten (10) hours applying for scholarships and receive a $1,000 scholarship...you made $100 PER HOUR!

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University of Florida Financial Aid

Academic Progress

Application

Disbursements

Eligibility

Employment

Financial Aid Awards

Financial Aid and Taxes

Loans

Miscellaneous

Scholarships

Academic Progress

Application

Disbursements

Eligibility

Employment

Financial Aid Awards

Financial Aid and Taxes

Loans

Miscellaneous

Scholarships

Title IV Code: 001535