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Making an Accessible Education Affordable

Most students and their families depend on financial aid to help meet the cost of a college education. While you and your family are primarily responsible for covering your costs, federal, state, college, and other outside funding is available to help you pay college expenses — including tuition and fees, room and board, books and supplies, and transportation. At Beacon, you can afford the education you deserve.

Applying for financial aid is fast and easy. By completing the FAFSA, you will automatically be considered for Beacon-, federal-, and state-funded aid.

Step 1

Complete the FAFSA online — Beacon’s code is 033733.

Complete FAFSA

Step 2

Beacon receives your FAFSA information, typically within a few business days.

Step 3

If you are accepted to Beacon, our team will send you a preliminary aid award.

Step 4

Submit your Intent to Enroll, accept your financial aid award, and complete your paperwork through the Financial Aid Portal.

Who Should Apply For Aid?

Everyone! We advise all students, no matter their income level, to complete the FAFSA form so they can be considered for every available resource. While income is an important part of financial strength, many other factors are examined when determining the amount and type of financial assistance you will receive, such as family size, number of siblings in college and assets.

Complete and submit your FAFSA at studentaid.gov

Aid Opportunities

Federal Grants

Based on the information you provide on FAFSA, the Office of Federal Student Aid (within the U.S. Department of Education) processes and awards eligibility to its aid programs.

Federal Pell Grants are available to undergraduate students only, and they do not have to be repaid. Your eligibility for a Pell Grant is determined by FASFA.

Begin your FAFSA online

Federal Loans

For some costs not covered by federal grants, the Office of Federal Student Aid (within the U.S. Department of Education) may award loan options. Accessing these loans requires that you file your FAFSA. You’ll work directly with Beacon to seek approval (when necessary), complete registration, and handle the distribution of funds.

  • For Students: You will be automatically eligible for loans once your FAFSA is processed. These loans allow you to defer payment while in school and have both long-term and income-based repayment options. Direct subsidized loans and direct unsubsidized loans are available based on your financial circumstances.
  • For Parents: You can seek approval for a Direct PLUS Loan. These loans may be deferred while your student is enrolled and offer 10-year repayment plans.

Federal Work Study

Based on the results of your FAFSA, you might qualify for the Federal Work-Study (FWS) program. You’ll be authorized to work and earn an amount calculated for you; if eligible, this amount will be included in your award package. As a student, you’re allowed to work up to 20 hours per week.

State Programs

Florida State Grants: Florida offers a number of state-funded financial aid programs to qualifying students who meet state residency requirements, including the Effective Access to Student Education (EASE) and Bright Futures awards. Criteria vary based on the program and include such factors as financial need and academic performance. For details, contact your high school guidance office or Beacon’s Financial Aid Office. You must file the FAFSA as well as a Florida Residency Application for both aid programs. Two forms of supplemental Florida identification are also required.

Florida Prepaid College Plan: Prepaid Plan benefits can be used at Beacon College. The amount paid will be based on your plan type. Your plan will pay the same amount as it would pay at a public college or university in Florida. You will need to submit a Transfer Authorization. When Florida school rates are available, Florida Prepaid will know the benefit amount that can be paid per credit hour from your plan to Beacon.

Other States: Many states allow students to carry state aid with them to colleges outside of their home state. Check with your high school counselor on what programs might be available and how to file for assistance.

Vocational Rehabilitation: Vocational rehabilitation is a jointly funded federal/state program that can help students with learning differences with additional state funding for their education at Beacon. The amount and type of grant funding varies by state, and each state has different application processes and requirements.

Beacon-Funded Programs

Beacon awards annually renewable funds ranging from $1,000 to $45,000, based primarily on student need. No special application is needed to apply, but a FAFSA is required. Upon receipt of your FAFSA, you will automatically be considered for this generous aid.

Begin your FAFSA online

Other Scholarships

In addition to Beacon-funded programs, there are other sources of financial aid that may help pay for your undergraduate degree. From named scholarships generously funded by donors to scholarship search engines, be sure to review these resources for funding your education.

Browse Scholarships

Veterans Benefits

Beacon is proud to participate in the Yellow Ribbon Program for veterans and eligible dependents, and the Post-9/11 GI Bill (Chapter 33) and Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA) (Chapter 35) programs.

Learn more

Financial Aid for Current Students

If you currently receive aid or wish to be considered for aid, you must file a new FAFSA each academic year by March 1. Upon receipt, Beacon will automatically adjust your award package for the upcoming academic year. If you have any questions or concerns, schedule a meeting with our financial aid staff.

Go to studentaid.gov to file

Resources

Financial Aid FAQ

Our Financial Aid FAQ has the answers to many of the questions you may have about financial aid.

Learn More

Payment Plans

Beacon offers interest-free monthly tuition payment plans through Nelnet.

Learn More

Medical Tax Deductions

Many families are able to claim Beacon College’s tuition and fees as a medical tax deduction.

Learn More

Vocational Rehabilitation

You may be eligible for vocational rehabilitation (VR) funding through your state.

Learn More

Apply for Financial Aid

If you currently receive aid or wish to be considered for aid, you must file a new FAFSA each academic year by March 1. Upon receipt, Beacon will automatically adjust your award package for the upcoming academic year. If you have any questions or concerns, schedule a meeting with our financial aid staff.

File for Financial Aid

Need More Information on Financial Aid?

We are here to assist you every step of the way. Together, we’ll build a plan to finance not just your first year, but ALL four years of your undergraduate study at Beacon. Contact the Office of Financial Aid at 352-638-9792 or financialaid@beaconcollege.edu

View the Financial Aid FAQs