Top 21 Florida Scholarships & Grants for 2026 - 2027

Florida Scholarships, Grants & Financial Aid Overview

What College Grants Are Available in Florida?

Florida offers one of the most comprehensive state-based financial aid systems in the country. These grant programs help thousands of Florida residents lower college costs and reduce their reliance on student loans. Unlike loans, grants do not need to be repaid, making them some of the most valuable resources available to undergraduate students.

The most significant program is the Florida Student Assistance Grant (FSAG), a need-based award for Florida residents attending participating public universities, state colleges, and private institutions. FSAG is designed for students with substantial financial need and provides support as long as the student maintains satisfactory academic progress.

Other important grant programs include:

• First Generation Matching Grant: Supports students who are the first in their families to attend a four-year college. Awards vary by institution and combine state funding with matching contributions from participating universities.
• Effective Access to Student Education (EASE) Grant: Provides annual tuition assistance to Florida residents attending private, nonprofit colleges within the state.
• Florida Postsecondary Endowment Grant: Offers additional need-based assistance to eligible students enrolled at private Florida institutions.

Together, these grants help reduce barriers to higher education, support low-income families, and encourage academic persistence throughout a student’s college career.

What Is the Bright Futures Scholarship?

The Florida Bright Futures Scholarship Program is among the most recognizable merit-based scholarship programs in the United States. Funded by the Florida Lottery, Bright Futures rewards high school students who demonstrate strong academic performance, community service, and (for some cycles) optional test score benchmarks.

Bright Futures offers multiple award tiers:

• Florida Academic Scholars (FAS): Covers 100% of tuition and applicable fees at public institutions and provides a small book allowance. This is the highest award level and requires a strong GPA, test scores, and community service hours.
• Florida Medallion Scholars (FMS): Covers 75% of tuition and applicable fees at public colleges and universities. Students must meet slightly lower GPA and test score thresholds than those required for FAS.

Eligibility for Bright Futures is based on:

• High school GPA in core academic courses
• SAT/ACT test scores (when required)
• Documented community service or paid work hours
• Completion of the Florida Financial Aid Application (FFAA) during senior year

Bright Futures is renewable for up to five years and remains one of the strongest incentives for Florida students to stay in-state for college.

How Can You Get a Full-Ride Scholarship in Florida?

Full-ride scholarships in Florida are highly competitive and generally awarded to students with exceptional academic credentials, leadership backgrounds, and community involvement. Full-ride awards typically cover tuition, fees, room, board, books, and additional academic expenses.

Prominent full-ride scholarships in Florida include:

• Benacquisto Scholarship Program: A top-tier, full-ride award for National Merit Finalists. Available at Florida public universities and select private institutions, the program covers full cost of attendance and may include additional stipends.
• Stamps Scholarship (University of Miami): One of the most prestigious merit awards in the country. Covers tuition, housing, meals, technology, enrichment experiences, and travel opportunities for undergraduate scholars.
• Presidential Scholarship (Florida State University): A merit-based scholarship for outstanding students demonstrating high academic achievement and leadership.

Students seeking full-ride scholarships should prepare early, focus on academic rigor, pursue leadership roles, and develop strong personal statements and recommendations.

How Can You Get a Grant for School in Florida?

To maximize eligibility for Florida state grants, students must complete both the federal and state financial aid applications. These forms determine eligibility for need-based and merit-based programs.

The two required applications are:

• FAFSA: Determines eligibility for federal grants (such as the Pell Grant), federal loans, and institutional need-based aid.
• Florida Financial Aid Application (FFAA): Required for Bright Futures, FSAG, and other Florida-specific programs. Must be completed during the student’s senior year of high school.

Submitting these applications early increases the likelihood of receiving limited funding, especially for programs awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.

Are There Florida Scholarships for Private Schools?

Yes. Florida offers several programs that provide tuition assistance for K–12 students attending private schools. These programs are part of Florida’s extensive school choice system and are designed to provide families with access to alternative educational environments.

Key private school scholarship programs include:

• Step Up for Students Scholarship: A broad program that provides tuition assistance based on family income. Many students use this award to enroll in private K–12 schools across Florida.
• Family Empowerment Scholarship: Includes options for students with disabilities and those from lower-income households seeking alternative learning environments.
• McKay Scholarship Program: Designed for students with special needs. Helps families choose private schools that best accommodate their child’s learning requirements.

These programs have grown significantly in recent years, making private school education more accessible to Florida families.

What Are Some Full-Ride Scholarships in Florida?

Several full-ride scholarships are available to Florida students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, or financial need.

Leading full-ride programs include:

• Benacquisto Scholarship: Covers full cost of attendance for National Merit Scholars attending Florida institutions.
• Stamps Scholarship (University of Miami): Provides full tuition plus enrichment funds for research, travel, internships, or study abroad.
• John V. Lombardi Scholarship (University of Florida): Covers full educational expenses, including enrichment learning experiences and mentoring opportunities.

Competition for these awards is intense, and applicants are encouraged to maintain strong academic records, exceptional leadership portfolios, and community involvement.

What Scholarships Are Available for High School Seniors in Florida?

Florida high school seniors can apply for a wide variety of local, state, and institutional scholarships. Many awards target academically strong students, underrepresented groups, or students with financial need.

Popular scholarships for Florida seniors include:

• Bright Futures Scholarship: Florida’s flagship merit-based award for high-achieving high school graduates.
• Jose Marti Scholarship Challenge Grant: Need-based aid for eligible Hispanic students who maintain strong academic performance.
• Southern Scholarship Foundation Program: Provides rent-free housing for students attending participating Florida colleges, helping significantly reduce college living expenses.

Students should also explore scholarships provided by local credit unions, civic organizations, chambers of commerce, and school district foundations.

What Is the Florida Student Assistance Grant?

The Florida Student Assistance Grant (FSAG) is the state’s largest need-based financial aid program. It provides critical support for Florida residents pursuing their first undergraduate degree.

Key details about FSAG include:

• Available to students attending eligible public universities, state colleges, and private institutions
• Must demonstrate significant financial need
• Must enroll at least half-time in an approved degree program
• Awards vary by year based on available funding

FSAG is renewable as long as students continue to meet eligibility requirements, including satisfactory academic progress and ongoing financial need.

What Are the Best Scholarships in Florida?

Florida hosts several high-impact scholarships that offer strong financial support and prestige.

Top scholarships include:

• Bright Futures Scholarship: Covers up to 100% of tuition at in-state institutions for academically strong students.
• Benacquisto Scholarship: Full-ride award for National Merit Finalists attending Florida universities.
• Stamps Scholarship: A nationally recognized program offering full cost of attendance plus enrichment opportunities.
• FSU Presidential Scholarship: Major award for high-achieving Florida State University applicants.

These programs help top-performing students complete undergraduate degrees with minimal or no debt.

How Do You Complete the Florida Financial Aid Application?

The Florida Financial Aid Application (FFAA) is required for many state-funded programs, including Bright Futures, FSAG, and other merit or need-based awards.

To complete the FFAA:

• Visit the Florida Office of Student Financial Assistance website.
• Create a student account using your personal information.
• Submit the application during your senior year of high school; the earlier, the better.
• Review your eligibility status and ensure accuracy before deadlines.

Early submission increases your chances of receiving priority consideration for limited state funds.