As college costs continue to rise, Florida students and their families are constantly searching for ways to make higher education more affordable. One of the most valuable opportunities available is the Florida Bright Futures Scholarship Program, which has helped hundreds of thousands of students achieve their college dreams since its inception in 1997.
What is Bright Futures?
The Florida Bright Futures Scholarship is a merit-based award that provides Florida students with financial assistance for attending any Florida public college or university. The program rewards students who demonstrate academic excellence during their high school years with significant tuition assistance for their college education.
Types of Bright Futures Scholarships
Florida Academic Scholars (FAS) - 100% Coverage
The highest level of the program covers:
100% of tuition and applicable fees at Florida public institutions
$300 per semester for additional educational expenses (fall and spring only)
Textbook stipend for fall and spring terms
Florida Medallion Scholars (FMS) - 75% Coverage
This level provides
75% of tuition and applicable fees at Florida public institutions
No additional stipend for expenses or textbooks
Current Requirements (2024-25 Academic Year)
Florida Academic Scholars (FAS)
3.5 weighted GPA in core courses
1330 SAT or 29 ACT score
100 service hours
Must complete 4 English, 4 Math, 3 Natural Science, 3 Social Science, and 2 World Language credits
Florida Medallion Scholars (FMS)
3.0 weighted GPA in core courses
1210 SAT or 25 ACT score
75 service hours
Must complete same core course requirements as FAS
The Financial Impact
Let's break down the potential savings at a typical Florida state university:
Annual Savings with FAS (100%)
Average tuition and fees: $6,380
Textbook stipend: ~$400
Additional stipend: $600
Total annual savings: ~$7,380
Annual Savings with FMS (75%)
Average tuition and fees coverage: $4,785
Total annual savings: ~$4,785**
Four-Year Impact
Over a typical four-year degree program, students could save:
FAS (100%): Approximately $29,520
FMS (75%): Approximately $19,140
Maintaining Your Scholarship
To keep your Bright Futures scholarship, you must:
Maintain minimum GPA requirements (3.0 for FAS, 2.75 for FMS)
Complete at least 12 credit hours per term
Submit FAFSA annually
Maintain Florida residency
Start Planning Early
The key to securing Bright Futures funding is early preparation. We recommend students begin planning their high school coursework and community service activities as freshmen to ensure they meet all requirements by graduation.
Need help preparing for Bright Futures? Our experienced tutors specialize in SAT/ACT prep and core subject areas to help students achieve the scores and GPAs needed to qualify. Contact us today to learn how we can help your student reach their Bright Futures goals.
Note: Requirements and award amounts are subject to change. Always verify current information with your school counselor or the Florida Department of Education.
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