Economic Hardship
The U.S. Department of Education uses a formula to determine your Expected Family Contribution (EFC) based on data provided on your FAFSA for the prior calendar year. The EFC determines your eligibility for need based funding (Federal grants, Federal subsidized loans, and Federal Work Study).
Due to economic hardships that many families are experiencing, the Financial Aid Office at USF wants to make you aware of options you can consider, should you or your family experience economic hardship that impacts your ability to attend.
Change in Circumstances
If major changes occur during the calendar year that are not reflected on your current year FAFSA and will result in your family's calendar year income being less than the FAFSA income, you may qualify for a special review of the changed income. Major changes may include:
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divorce or separation of parents or from spouse;
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death of a major wage earner;
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loss or reduction of personal or family income by at least 25%.
If any of these circumstances apply to you, speak with a financial aid counselor to see if a special review would help your eligibility. Call (941) 359-4459 or email finaid@sar.usf.edu for more information.
Note: Mortgage payments, car payments, and credit card payments cannot be considered when determining eligibility for financial aid.
USF Career and Counseling Services
Career Services
USF Sarasota-Manatee Career Services offers career advising and job search assistance to students and alumni. Career services assists students in making informed career decisions; gaining employability skills; obtaining career related experiences and preparing for a successful job search. Career Services also coordinates venues that connect students and alumni with employers. For more information call (941) 359-4586 or visit the Career Services webpage today!
Counseling & Wellness Center
In these turbulent and trying times, you are not alone. The Counseling and Wellness Center is available to all currently registered USF Sarasota-Manatee students, providing services related to the development of the whole person; emotional and physical well-being, as well as academic concerns. A Wellness philosophy is the foundation for all services and programs. For more information call (941) 487-4254 or visit the Counseling & Wellness Center website.
Transportation Options
Commuter Services is a program of the Florida Department of Transportation, serving travelers who live or work in the 12-county region of Southwest Florida. Alternative travel options like carpooling, vanpooling, and other options are becoming more attractive every day, as commuters like you look for ways to cut costs and save time. Through an online ridematch database, you can connect with other commuters to share rides and be eligible for the Emergency Ride Home program. To learn more, visit the Commuter Services website.
Federal, State and Local Resources
Florida Department of Children and Families
Temporary Aid to Needy Families
Manatee Glens Hospital & Crisis Center
Community Services for Manatee County