How do I Qualify for the Florida Bright Futures Scholarship?

Florida Bright Futures Guide 2025-2026

Florida Bright Futures: What You Need to Know for 2025–2026

Navigating financial aid options can feel overwhelming, but the Florida Bright Futures Scholarship Program remains a vital source of support for Florida students pursuing higher education. Designed to reward academic achievement and service, Bright Futures offers three scholarship levels, each with distinct eligibility criteria and award amounts.

Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need for the Florida Academic Scholars (FAS) and Florida Medallion Scholars (FMS) awards in the 2025–2026 cycle:

High School GPA

• FAS: A minimum weighted GPA of 3.50.

• FMS: A minimum weighted GPA of 3.00.

  
  

Standardized Test Scores

Students must achieve qualifying scores from tests taken no later than June 30, 2026:

• FAS: 1330 SAT or 29 ACT

• FMS: 1210 SAT or 25 ACT

  
  

Service or Work Hours

Documented service or paid work experience remains a core component:

• FAS: 100 hours of volunteer service or paid work

• FMS: 75 hours of volunteer service or paid work

  
  

Required High School Coursework

Students must meet Florida’s standard high school diploma requirements, which include specific credits in English, mathematics, science, social studies, and world languages.

Residency

Applicants must be Florida residents and either U.S. citizens or eligible non-citizens.

NEW: AP Capstone Diploma as a Qualification Path

A significant update for this cycle is the inclusion of the Advanced Placement (AP) Capstone Diploma as a qualifying academic credential. Students who earn this distinction through successful completion of AP Seminar, AP Research, and four additional AP exams, while meeting Bright Futures GPA and service hour requirements, may now qualify for the Florida Academic Scholars award. This recognition affirms the program’s commitment to rewarding academic rigor and college readiness.

Award Amounts for 2025–2026

While official amounts are updated annually by the Florida Department of Education, the most recent figures offer a helpful reference point:

• Florida Academic Scholars (FAS):

  • 100% tuition and applicable fees at public institutions

  • $215.55 per credit hour at private institutions

• Florida Medallion Scholars (FMS):

  • 75% tuition and applicable fees at public institutions

  • $161.66 per credit hour at private institutions

• Florida Gold Seal Vocational Scholars (GSV):

  • Tuition and fees for select vocational/technical programs

  • Award levels depend on program type and institution

    
    

Applying

To apply or review your eligibility, visit the Florida Department of Education’s Office of Student Financial Assistance portal: https://www.floridastudentfinancialaidsg.org/SAPBFMAIN/SAPBFMAIN

Bright Futures can significantly ease the financial burden of college, but eligibility hinges on strategic planning. If you'd like expert guidance tailored to your goals and timeline, PEAK is here to help.

For more information or to schedule your complimentary 30-minute discovery session, don't hesitate to get in touch with Elizabeth at info@peakeducationalconsulting.com, call or text 1-239-776-9781, or visit www.peakeducationalconsulting.com.

Let’s make your goals a reality—together.