The Bright Futures Scholarship Program offers several distinct scholarships to help Florida students with their postsecondary education costs. Here’s a breakdown of the main types:
1. Florida Academic Scholarship (FAS)
The Florida Academic Scholarship is the most comprehensive Bright Futures award. It is intended for high-achieving students who have demonstrated exceptional academic performance. This scholarship covers a significant portion of tuition and fees and may include additional funding for textbooks and other educational expenses.
Who Can Apply
- Must have a minimum 3.50 weighted GPA.
- Must achieve high scores on the SAT or ACT.
- Must complete a specified number of community service hours.
- Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and ensure you meet the academic and service criteria.
2.Florida Medallion Scholarship (FMS)
The Florida Medallion Scholarship provides financial support to students who may not meet the higher standards required for the FAS but still demonstrate strong academic achievements. Covers a portion of tuition and fees and may offer additional support for textbooks.
Who Can Apply
- Must have a minimum 3.00 weighted GPA.
- Must achieve good scores on the SAT or ACT, though slightly lower than those required for the FAS.
- Must complete a specified number of community service hours.
- Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and meet the academic and service requirements.
3. Florida Gold Seal CAPE Scholarship (GSC)
The Florida Gold Seal CAPE Scholarship is designed for students who complete a Career and Technical Education (CTE) program and earn a high school diploma. Provides funding for tuition and fees at a Florida public postsecondary institution.
Who Can Apply
- Must complete a career and technical education program and earn industry certifications.
- Must have a minimum 2.75 weighted GPA.
- Must achieve satisfactory scores on the SAT or ACT.
- May have specific community service requirements.
- Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and ensure you meet the CTE and academic criteria.
4. Florida Gold Seal Vocational Scholarship (GSV)
The Florida Gold Seal Vocational Scholarship supports students pursuing vocational or technical education.
- Award Coverage: Offers funding for tuition and fees for vocational programs at a Florida public postsecondary institution.
Who Can Apply
- Must be enrolled in a vocational or technical program.
- Must have a minimum 3.00 weighted GPA.
- Must achieve satisfactory scores on the SAT or ACT.
- Specific community service requirements may apply.
- Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and meet the vocational and academic criteria.
Helpful Tips
- Review specific eligibility criteria for each scholarship.
- Fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and ensure you meet all requirements.
- Reach out to your school counselor for guidance on the application process and eligibility.
- Maintain strong academic performance and community involvement to meet eligibility requirements.
- Provide any necessary documentation and meet application deadlines.
- Regularly check the Florida Department of Education’s Bright Futures page for updates and deadlines.
Program Information
- Florida Department of Education (FDOE): FDOE Bright Futures
- For questions or more information, contact your school’s financial aid office or visit the FDOE website.
