Financial Matters

We know money matters for families.

Whether you are helping your student pay for college or assisting them in navigating what can feel complex about financial aid and paying for college, USF has several resources to address their needs throughout the process. USF directly interfaces with students regarding their financial aid and educational records. We encourage family members to help their students identify their questions or needs so we can provide the most accurate information.

Financial Aid Info & Tutorials

You and your student can review step-bystep instructions and tutorial videos for each aspect of the financial aid process by visiting usf.edu/financial-aid and reviewing the “How To Videos.”

Florida Bright Futures

Make sure USF is listed as your student’s school choice for Florida Bright Futures. Your student should review usf.edu/financial-aid/brightfutures for more details.

Florida Prepaid Plan

A short tutorial to learn how Florida Prepaid Plan works at USF along with related information can be found at usf.edu/fla-prepaid.

Student Loans

Students will need to complete Entrance Counseling and sign a Master Promissory Note at studentaid.gov if they will be borrowing federal loans. Please note: international students do not need to complete this step.

Review Tuition and Fee Deadlines

Students must pay their tuition and fees by the fifth day of the semester in their OASIS account. Your student can review the total amount due in OASIS once they have registered for classes. If students are receiving a financial aid deferment or have an active Florida Prepaid Plan they will get an extended bill due date. Visit usf. edu/business-finance/controller/studentservices/deadline-dates.aspx .

Financial Aid Access for Third Party (Including Parent and Family Members)

In order to discuss your student’s financial aid awards with the university, your student must contact the Office of Financial Aid and request the Privacy Release for Dependent Students Form to be posted to OASIS. The form must be completed online. Please note your student must update this form on an annual basis. For more questions, visit usf.edu/financial-aid/questions

Financial Education

The Bull2Bull Financial Education Program (B2B) is a peer-to-peer financial education program. It is designed to enhance the financial wellness of undergraduate students. Learn more at usf.edu/financial-education.

Employment

Many students seek employment for income to help pay for their college and living expenses. Colleges and departments have numerous opportunities for Federal Work Study and part-time employment for students. Visit usf.edu/student-careers.

Family Conversation Starters:

• “Who is financially responsible and accountable for college?” Every student and family’s decisions look different, so it’s helpful for your student to establish their college expectations from the onset to drive decision-making and budgeting.

• “Do you plan to work? Do you need to work right away or are you able to wait until you’ve adjusted?”

• “How much spending money do you need?”

• “How do you plan to stretch your money throughout the entire semester/year?”