Most Lucrative Online Colleges that Accept FAFSA in 2025
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid, better known as FAFSA, provides crucial financial support to students pursuing higher education. However, not all colleges and universities participate in federal financial aid programs. In this post, we will explore some top online college options that accept FAFSA and are well-suited for students seeking an affordable virtual education.
Western Governors University
One of the largest online colleges in the nation, Western Governors University (WGU) accepts FAFSA and offers degree programs at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. Some key facts about WGU:
- Flat-rate tuition of around $3,000 per term for most programs, making the overall cost very reasonable.
- The competency-based model means students can complete courses as quickly as possible by demonstrating what they know. This flexible pace could save time and money.
- Over 100 accredited degree options in fields like Business, IT, Teacher Education, and Health Professions.
- Regional accreditation from the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities ensures transferability and credibility.
- Has disbursed over $600 million in federal financial aid to students since 2008.
- It is consistently ranked among the top online bachelor’s programs by US News & World Report.
WGU’s affordable tuition, combined with its acceptance of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, better known as FAFSA, makes higher education very attainable for self-motivated students seeking career-focused online programs. The school’s flexible model is also a good fit for working professionals.
Southern New Hampshire University
Another highly rated nonprofit online university, Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) participates fully in all federal financial aid programs, including FAFSA. A closer examination reveals:
- Over 200 online undergraduate and graduate degree programs across various fields.
- Accelerated seven-week terms allow for year-round enrollment and timely completion.
- Recognized for innovation with the iSLC interactive virtual classroom platform.
- Ranked among the top ten online bachelor’s programs nationally by US News.
- Its origins date back to 1932, and it has a long track record of service.
- Around 90% of SNHU online students receive some form of financial aid or scholarship help.
SNHU makes it easy for students to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, better known as FAFSA, to access financial support. With a student body of over 80,000, including many veterans and adult learners, SNHU is committed to access and affordability. The school is ideal for self-motivated students seeking fast-paced, career-focused programs while using financial assistance through FAFSA.
Granite State College
Located in New Hampshire, Granite State College (GSC) is devoted to serving adult and nontraditional students through its flexible online and part-time programs. Several key benefits include:
- Excels at meeting students where they are through programs tailored for working professionals.
- Emphasis on maximizing existing work experience and credits for seamless transfer.
- Access to staff advisors to personally guide degree planning and career services.
- Over 30 online majors at the associate and bachelor’s level in business, education, health, and more.
- Part of the University System of New Hampshire and accredited by NECHE.
- Accepts FAFSA and offers assistance through Veterans Affairs academic programs.
- Affordable flat-rate tuition of approximately $640 per credit hour.
Granite State College stands out for its dedication to students using the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, better known as FAFSA. The school accommodates busy adult lives through self-paced online programs, making it a top FAFSA option for career-advancing students seeking an affordable degree from a reputable state institution.
Southern Utah University
With campus locations in Cedar City and St. George, Utah, Southern Utah University (SUU) has an extensive portfolio of in-person and online programs. Key details include:
- More than 70 accredited online undergraduate and graduate degree pathways.
- Subject areas cover business, education, fine arts, health, and STEM fields.
- The hybrid program structure combines online classes with periodic campus visits.
- Year-round schedule with rolling admission dates and eight-week courses.
- Regionally accredited and a member of the Western Interstate Commission.
- Committed to access through accepting all forms of federal financial aid, including FAFSA.
Southern Utah University is an excellent choice for students completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, better known as FAFSA. It offers flexible options that support military learners, working adults, and hybrid students, making higher education both accessible and affordable nationwide.
Purdue University Global
One choice offering robust online programs with financial support through FAFSA is Purdue University Global. Some key advantages stand out:
- Over 200 online degree and certificate paths at the associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels.
- Fields include business, criminal justice, nursing, cybersecurity, and more with some hybrid options.
- Course material uses multimedia and interactive elements for engaging virtual learning.
- Eight-week terms allow for year-round enrollment and timely graduation.
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and a member of the North Central Association.
- Around 90% of students receive financial aid, including grants, loans, and military benefits through FAFSA.
Purdue Global ensures access to federal financial aid, including the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, better known as FAFSA. With Purdue’s extensive academic reputation behind it, Purdue Global remains a prestigious yet affordable online university for many career fields and academic goals.
Bellevue University
Rounding out our list of top online colleges that accept FAFSA is Bellevue University, located just outside Omaha, Nebraska. Key considerations here include:
- Over 50 online undergraduate and graduate programs spanning business, technology, psychology, and more.
- Accreditation through the Higher Learning Commission comforts the quality of distance education.
- The hybrid program option combines online classes with flexible campus experiences.
- Students can earn in-demand certificates and micro-credentials along with degree programs.
- Eight-week accelerated terms allow for completion of a bachelor’s in just over two years.
- Military-friendly institution that participates in the Yellow Ribbon GI Education Enhancement Program.
Bellevue University demonstrates a strong commitment to supporting students using the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, better known as FAFSA. Their affordable online and hybrid programs make it an excellent option for working professionals and military students.
In Summary
The online colleges spotlighted here represent outstanding options for motivated students pursuing an affordable virtual education while utilizing significant financial assistance available through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, better known as FAFSA.Â
Their degree pathways, scheduling flexibility, and emphasis on competency-based learning make higher education achievable for busy adults across different stages of life and careers.
Do your research to find the right FAFSA-accepting online program that aligns with your unique needs and long-term goals. With the right fit and dedication to your studies, an online education financed through federal financial aid programs can transform your future.