Florida Tuition and Fee Exemption for Homeless Students
State of Florida (s. 1009.25, Florida Statutes); applied by each public institution
Free tuition and fees at Florida public colleges, universities and district technical centers for students who are homeless.
- How much
- 100% of tuition and fees at Florida public institutions
- Who qualifies
- Homeless student (McKinney-Vento definition)
- Documentation standards follow 20 U.S.C. s. 1087uu-2(a).
- For students starting college, undergrads, trade school students
- When to apply
- Apply any time Rolling; claim at enrollment.
- How to apply
- Contact your college's financial aid office and provide documentation of homelessness (for example a determination from a Florida public school district, shelter, or the college's own determination)
- Last checked
- October 5, 2026, against the official page (flsenate.gov)
The details
State law (s. 1009.25(1)(e), F.S.) exempts students who meet the federal McKinney-Vento definition of homeless children and youths, as previously determined by a Florida public school, or as determined by the college or university (including students who would qualify but for living in campus housing), from tuition and fees at school-district workforce programs, Florida College System institutions and state universities. A student found homeless for one award year is presumed to remain so unless circumstances change. Out-of-state distance-learning students are not eligible.
More money from Florida
- McKnight Doctoral Fellowshipstipend up to $14,000 per year for up to 3 years
- Mary McLeod Bethune Scholarship Program (MMB)up to $3,000 per year (2025-26; may be prorated)
- Benacquisto Scholarship ProgramInstitutional in-state cost of attendance minus Bright Futures and National Merit awards
- Florida Bright Futures - Florida Academic Scholars (FAS)100% of tuition and applicable fees at Florida public institutions; at private institutions $212 per semester credit hour (4-year, 2026-27); Academic Top Scholars add $44 per semester credit hour
- Florida Bright Futures - Florida Gold Seal CAPE Scholars (GSC)$39 per semester credit hour (career certificate or applied technology diploma), $48 per semester credit hour (AS/AAS/CCC technical degree), 2026-27; $48 per semester credit hour toward a BS/BAS after an AS/AAS
Keep looking
- Answer a few questions to see every program you qualify for
- Nearby states: Alabama, Georgia
- Federal aid and national scholarships (open to students in any state)
- The FAFSA in plain English (2027-28)
- Should I file the FAFSA if I don't think I'll qualify?
- FAFSA deadlines by state (2027-28)
- The FAFSA for parents: what you need to do
- How to save on textbooks: free, rented and cheaper options
We list programs; we don't decide who gets them. Always check the official page before you apply. Spot something wrong? Tell us.