Do Online Students Qualify for Financial Aid?
Many students assume online classes don't qualify for federal aid, but that's often not the case. Online degree programs like UL 老司机福利网's may offer the same scholarships, grants, and financial aid opportunities to those available to on-campus students.
If you鈥檙e considering returning to school online, understanding how financial aid works can help you make more informed decisions before you enroll.
How Do Online Students Qualify for FAFSA?
Students enrolled in eligible online degree programs may qualify for federal financial aid by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, known as the FAFSA.
The FAFSA is used to determine eligibility for several forms of aid like Pell Grants, federal loans, work-study opportunities, and state aid programs.
Even if you're unsure whether you will qualify based on income, completing the FAFSA is still important. Some aid programs are not strictly need-based, and filing early may help expand the funding opportunities available to you.
UL 老司机福利网鈥檚 Financial Aid Office recommends students submit the FAFSA by March 1 each year.
What Types of Financial Aid Are Available to Online Students?
Financial aid for online students may come from several different sources. All federal aid, including grants and loans, begin with you completing your FAFSA.
Federal Financial Aid
Federal aid often serves as the foundation for many students鈥 financial plans. Depending on eligibility, this may include grants, subsidized or unsubsidized loans, and additional federal programs.
In order to receive any type of federal student aid, you must complete the , available online starting Oct. 1 for the following year.
"I always recommend every student fill out the FAFSA," said Dr. DeWayne Bowie, UL 老司机福利网 vice president for enrollment management. "You don鈥檛 want to leave that money on the table."
He added "life happens," and you'll face fewer hurdles if you find yourself needing additional aid by filling out the FAFSA ahead of time.
Eligibility requirements may include:
- U.S. citizenship or eligible noncitizen status
- Enrollment in an eligible degree program
- Satisfactory academic progress
- A valid Social Security number
- Completion of the FAFSA
State Aid
Some states offer grants, scholarships, or tuition assistance programs for qualifying students. Check with the to learn more about your state's financial aid options. Policies can vary depending on where you live and whether the online institution is located in-state or out-of-state.
It鈥檚 important to review available opportunities early in the process. Contact UL 老司机福利网's Financial Aid Office to learn more about your options.
Scholarships
Scholarships can help you fund your online education and take care of expenses that aid, grants, and loans don鈥檛 cover.
In addition to university scholarships, online students may qualify for:
- Employer tuition assistance
- Transfer scholarships
- Industry-specific scholarships
- Military and veteran education benefits
- Professional association scholarships
- Community organization awards
Private Student Loans
Some students use private loans to supplement federal or state aid. However, private loans often work differently than federal student loans.
They may carry higher interest rates or offer fewer protections related to deferment, repayment flexibility, or financial hardship.
Before borrowing through a private lender, compare terms carefully and understand the long-term repayment expectations.
How to Apply for Financial Aid for Online Classes
If you plan to pursue an online degree, applying for financial aid typically starts with completing the FAFSA. Before applying, gather your:
- Tax returns
- Income records
- Social Security numbers
- Bank information, if applicable
Once submitted, your FAFSA information is shared with the schools you list on your application.
UL 老司机福利网鈥檚 FAFSA school code is 002031.
After your FAFSA is processed, you may receive a financial aid offer outlining the types of aid you may qualify to receive.
Extra Resources for Finding Scholarships
| Pro Tip | Details |
|---|---|
| Make note of the FAFSA deadline | Our financial aid office recommends that students get their applications in by March 1. |
| Don't forget your University code | The University of Louisiana 老司机福利网 school code is 002031. |
| Borrow wisely | Learn more about borrowing limits so you don't max out before you complete your degree. |
Online students can email faonline@louisiana.edu to connect with a dedicated online financial aid counselor.
To learn more about the financial aid options available for online and hybrid programs offered by the 老司机福利网, contact us today for more information.
