- FAFSA aid isn't only applicable to the fall and spring semesters; you can use it for the summer too.
- There is an annual maximum you can take out in federal loans, which includes the summer semester.
- If you're able, taking on a part-time job or paid internship can help offset the cost of classes.
One of the perks of taking summer classes is that you may be able to graduate early or earn multiple degrees, and some schools even offer reduced tuition for these classes. You also might be able to take classes at a local community college for a lower price and transfer those credits to your school.
You'll be able to start earning full-time income sooner, which could help jumpstart your repayment process if you have loans.
Yes, FAFSA can pay for summer school
Federal aid eligibility
While some students take advantage of summer to rest and recharge, others may want to use the season to get ahead on classes. If you're planning ahead for college classes next summer, here's how the Free Application for Federal Student Aid applies for the summer session.
Eligibility requirements for summer FAFSA
Remaining aid
If you haven't exhausted your annual FAFSA award for the academic year, you may be able to use the remaining aid for eligible summer classes. For this to work, you must have financial aid remaining after the fall and spring semesters.
Enrollment status
Typically, you must be enrolled at least half-time for summer courses to qualify for federal aid. Check with your school's financial aid office to verify.
School policies
Different schools may have their own specific requirements for summer aid. Your school may offer scholarships, though those are usually designated for academic merit, athletic achievement, or other separating factors.
You can apply for private scholarships, too, though be aware that they are usually very competitive. In some cases, your school may reduce the aid it gives you by the amount of the private scholarship.
Types of financial aid available for summer
You can get three types of assistance through the FAFSA: grants, work-study, and loans.
Grants
These are usually offered based on significant financial need or for people who are part of a designated group. Learn more about the different kinds of federal grants here.
Work-study
Work-study aid is usually given depending on when you apply, your level of financial need, and the amount of money your school has available. Work-study is a type of financial assistance that offers part-time positions for students with financial need to earn money for academic costs.
Loans
Subsidized loans are offered based on financial need, while eligibility for unsubsidized and Direct PLUS loans isn't based on financial need. You should think about loans after you've exhausted your grant and work-study aid options, because you'll have to repay loans. Interest rates are fixed on federal loans.
FAQs
You usually do not need to submit a separate FAFSA for the summer. Most schools use your existing FAFSA information for summer aid.
Yes, you can use your 529 plan savings to pay for summer classes, as long as the summer classes are eligible expenses under the plan's terms.
Yes, private student loans are an option to pay for summer classes, but carefully consider the interest rates and repayment terms compared to federal loans.
