For many students, the dream of attending a Florida public university is often overshadowed by the reality of out-of-state tuition costs. But what if having a grandparent in Florida could make that dream more affordable?
What Is the Grandparent Waiver?
The Grandparent Waiver was introduced by the Florida Legislature in 2021 as part of an amendment to Section 1009.26, Florida Statutes. This initiative allows eligible out-of-state students to pay in-state tuition at any of the twelve public universities within Florida’s State University System (SUS).
Key Benefits:
Covers up to 110% of the total degree credit hours required.
Saves thousands of dollars by eliminating out-of-state fees.
Makes a Florida education more accessible for eligible students.
Who Is Eligible?
To qualify for the Grandparent Waiver, students must meet all of the following criteria:
Be admitted as an undergraduate degree-seeking student at a Florida public university.
Have a grandparent who is a Florida resident as defined by state law. The grandparent must be the natural, adopted, or legal guardian of the student’s parent.
Graduate from high school with a diploma comparable to Florida’s standard diploma or complete a home education program.
Meet standardized test score requirements, achieving one of the following:
SAT score: 1340 or higher (89th national percentile).
ACT score: 29 or higher.
Classic Learning Test (CLT) score: 96 or higher
Enroll full-time in the summer or fall term immediately after high school graduation.
🏫 Which Florida Universities Accept the Grandparent Waiver?
The Grandparent Waiver is available at the 12 public universities in Florida's State University System (SUS):
📌 For more details on each university, visit the Florida Board of Governors website: https://www.flbog.edu/universities/
📝 How to Apply
Applying for the Grandparent Waiver is simple but requires attention to deadlines:
Apply to a Florida public university as a first-year undergraduate student.
Submit required documentation to verify eligibility, including:
A signed form confirming the familial relationship, completed by the student’s parent or grandparent.
Proof of Florida residency for the grandparent.
Meet application deadlines set by your university’s admissions or financial aid office.
Important: Waivers are granted on a first-come, first-served basis, so apply early to secure your spot!
🔄 Maintaining the Waiver
Once granted, the waiver does not need to be renewed as long as the student:
Remains enrolled full-time at the same university.
Continues taking at least 12 credits per semester during fall and spring.
Does not enroll part-time, as this will result in losing eligibility.
Transfers only if necessary, but must reapply at the new university (no guarantee of approval).
Summer enrollment is optional but can be covered by the waiver if chosen.
⚠️ Key Considerations
Limited Availability: The waiver is granted on a first-come, first-served basis. Apply early!
No Retroactive Application: It cannot be applied to previous semesters.
Resident Tuition Rates: Approved students will pay Florida resident tuition rates, saving thousands in costs.
🎯 Final Thoughts
The Grandparent Waiver is an incredible opportunity for out-of-state students with Florida-based grandparents to reduce tuition costs and earn a degree at a prestigious Florida public university. If you or someone you know might qualify, don’t wait—apply early and connect with your university’s admissions office today!
📌 For more details, visit your prospective university’s official website or contact their admissions team.
📢 Spread the Word!
Help a future Florida university student save on tuition by sharing this post! 🎓🌞
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