Deciding to earn your degree is a major step toward career growth, increased earning potential and personal achievement. But paying for college can feel challenging, especially for working adults returning to school.
If you’re interested in online degree programs that give you the flexibility to continue working while attending school, you may also be wondering if there are online colleges that accept FAFSA. Understanding how federal financial aid works is an important step toward making your higher education more affordable.
FAFSA isn’t just for recent high school graduates or those attending class on campus — online students of any age may be eligible for federal financial aid if they meet certain requirements.
Many accredited online colleges, including Boise State Online, are designed to support busy nontraditional students with flexible schedules, accessible coursework and the same financial aid opportunities that can help turn long-term goals into reality.Â
Learn more about how FAFSA works for online students and what steps you can take to maximize your financial aid options.
What is FAFSA?
FAFSA stands for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid and is a form that prospective college students complete to request financial aid from the federal government to help pay for school. Many colleges and universities — including online programs — use FAFSA information to determine eligibility for loans, grants, scholarships and other aid opportunities.
Basic FAFSA eligibility requirements include:
- Be a U.S. citizen or eligible noncitizen
- Have a valid Social Security number
- Enroll in an accredited college or eligible degree program
- Maintain good academic standing
- Have a high school diploma, GED or equivalent credential
FAFSA isn’t solely for first-time or full-time students. Adult learners, working professionals returning to school and part-time students interested in online programs can also qualify for FAFSA if they meet the eligibility requirements.
Can FAFSA be used for online colleges?
Yes, you can use FAFSA to attend online colleges, but only if the school is accredited. Accredited schools meet recognized educational standards and are therefore eligible to participate in federal aid programs. At Boise State, students enrolled in online programs with degree-seeking status can apply for federal financial aid.
In addition to financial aid, many of Boise State Online’s degree and certificate programs follow an alternative fee model, which means there’s no out-of-state tuition or surprise charges, and per-credit fees are the same whether attending full- or part-time.
If you have more questions about these programs, visit our Alternative Fees FAQ page.
How to apply for federal financial aid
The financial aid application process can feel daunting, but Studentaid.gov offers help in the form of checklists, infographics, relevant links and chatbots to help guide you through the process.Â
Here is a quick overview of the steps you’ll need to take to apply for financial aid:
- Gather your federal income tax information and financial documents. This also includes records of your assets and investments or child support payments received. The federal aid website — FAFSA Checklist — has a list of what is and isn’t considered an investment. Note: You’ll be required to provide consent and approval to retrieve and disclose federal tax information to the FAFSA, which includes contributors.Â
- Select a contributor. If you’re a dependent student, at least one parent must be your contributor. If you’re married, you will report your spouse’s information, but they will only be listed as a contributor if you filed taxes separately.Â
- Create a list of schools you’re interested in attending. You can declare up to 20 schools on the form.
- Create a Federal Student Aid account and set up your FSA ID. If you’re a dependent student, a parent or guardian will also need to create an FSA ID.
- Fill out your FAFSA application. You can complete the online application in less than an hour if you have your documents prepared in advance.Â
For more information on filling out your FAFSA, including important deadlines, form updates and frequently asked questions, visit Boise State’s federal aid application guide.
Tips to maximize your financial aid offer
- Apply early. Submit your FAFSA application as early as possible, as some programs are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis. If that’s not possible, Boise State Online recommends submitting your FAFSA application at least 10 weeks before classes start to receive your funds by the fee deadline.
- Consider part-time vs. full-time enrollment. Financial aid enrollment requirements can vary depending on whether you’re attending school full- or part-time. Full-time status may increase your eligibility for certain grants, while a part-time schedule may allow you more flexibility if you’re working while attending school.Â
- Maintain good academic standing. To continue receiving federal financial aid, students must meet their school’s Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) requirements by maintaining a minimum GPA and completing enough courses each term.
- Don’t borrow more than you need. Accept only the amount of student loans you truly need. Reducing borrowing now can help lower monthly payments and total interest costs after graduation.
- Update your FAFSA every year. Keep in mind that financial aid isn’t automatically renewed every year. If you’re in a program that lasts several years, you’ll want to stay on top of your yearly application to continue receiving aid, especially if your financial circumstances have changed.Â
FAQs about FAFSA for online students
Do all online colleges accept FAFSA?
No. Only accredited online colleges that participate in federal student aid programs accept FAFSA. Before you enroll, check that the school has a valid federal school code and is approved for financial aid. Boise State’s federal school code is 001616.
Can I get FAFSA for part-time online classes?
Yes, you can apply for and receive financial aid if your program is accredited and you meet certain credit requirements. However, your award amount may be lower than what full-time students typically receive, especially for grants like the Pell Grant.
Is FAFSA enough to cover full tuition?
The amount of financial aid offered depends on the school and your financial situation, but it’s rare that financial aid will cover your full tuition. In addition to federal financial aid, Boise State Online students are encouraged to review other opportunities to help fund their education, such as scholarships, military benefits, payment plans and employer reimbursement.
Can graduate students use FAFSA?
Yes, students applying for graduate-level programs may still apply for FAFSA, but aid options can vary from those offered for undergraduate studies, especially if you’re no longer a dependent. Graduate students may qualify for direct unsubsidized loans, work-study programs, TEACH grants or fellowships and assistantships to help cover tuition and costs. There are also scholarships, employer tuition assistance and private loans.
Can I get financial aid if I work full-time?
Yes. Working full-time doesn’t disqualify you from applying for FAFSA. Many adult learners who work full-time still receive financial aid for their online degree programs. Your eligibility depends on your income, enrollment status and school.
Learn more about Boise State Online
Boise State Online offers 100+ online programs and 900+ unique online courses to help you make your educational dreams a reality — and we’re here to support you every step of the way. Whether you’re exploring if an online program is right for you or need help transferring credits, connecting with a student success coach is the perfect first step.
Ready to learn more? Attend one of our online information sessions or contact a student success coach today.