Types of Financial Aid
Nine out of 10 incoming undergraduate Dons receive some form of financial aid. Learn more about your options so that you can maximize the aid that you are offered.
USF Grants & Scholarships
USF Scholarships are often called “gift aid” because it is free money — money that does not have to be repaid. These awards can be based on your financial need, your grades, or your personal identity.
LEARN MORE ABOUT USF SCHOLARSHIPS
Federal and State Grants
State and federal governments provide a variety of grants to families based on financial need. The grants do not need to be repaid.
Loans
Loans are available to both students and qualifying parents and can be a reasonable option to cover any gaps not filled by other types of aid. Types of loans include low-interest loans from the federal government as well as private loans. Loans will need to be paid back, usually with interest, so it’s important that you understand how to borrow responsibly.
Federal Work Study
Federal Work-Study (FWS) provides an opportunity for you to earn money by working on campus or with a qualified off-campus employer to help cover your educational expenses. The money you earn from your part-time job goes directly to you, like a regular paycheck.
Outside Scholarships
Many independent foundations, organizations, or companies offer scholarships for college-bound students. Winning these scholarships requires research, strategy, and luck.
LEARN MORE ABOUT OUTSIDE SCHOLARSHIPS
Veterans Benefits
The Yellow Ribbon Program can help pay for tuition that the Post-9/11 GI Bill doesn’t cover. A veteran must be receiving 100% Post-9/11 (Chapter 33) benefits and not be on active duty in order to be eligible for Yellow Ribbon benefits.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE YELLOW RIBBON PROGRAM
Tuition Remission
If you are the parent of a college-bound student, check with your employer’s HR department to see if there are benefits to help cover the cost of tuition. At USF, dependent children of USF employees are eligible for 100% tuition remission if they meet specific eligibility requirements.
529 College Savings Plans
A 529 plan is an investment account that allows you to save and pay for higher education expenses, tax-free. Thousands of institutions across the country, including USF, accept withdrawals from 529 plans to pay for tuition.