Bright Futures Requirements: Class of 2025 to 2027 Guide
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Florida Bright Futures Scholarship Guide: Eligibility by Graduation Year

If you're a Florida high school student in the class of 2025, 2026, or 2027, understanding the Florida Bright Futures Scholarship Program is a must. This merit-based scholarship helps cover college tuition for eligible students attending in-state colleges and universities.


This complete guide outlines the Bright Futures eligibility requirements, award tiers, test score criteria, and how to maintain your scholarship once awarded—so you can plan ahead and secure your spot.


What Is the Florida Bright Futures Scholarship?


The Florida Bright Futures Scholarship is a state-funded program that rewards academic achievement, community service, and career preparation. Available to public, private, and homeschool students, it helps reduce the cost of tuition for college-bound Floridians.


Award Types and What They Cover


  1. Florida Academic Scholars (FAS) – 100% tuition and fees at public colleges

  2. Florida Medallion Scholars (FMS) – 75% tuition and fees at public colleges

  3. Gold Seal CAPE Scholars (GSC) – funding for career certificate or technical programs

  4. Gold Seal Vocational Scholars (GSV) – support for vocational or career education paths


At private colleges, Bright Futures provides comparable funding based on average public tuition.


General Bright Futures Requirements for All Students


To qualify for any Bright Futures award, students must:


  • Be a Florida resident and U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen

  • Earn a standard Florida high school diploma or equivalent

  • Enroll in at least 6 non-remedial credit hours per term at a participating Florida college

  • Submit the Florida Financial Aid Application (FFAA) by August 31 of the graduation year


FAS Requirements for the Class of 2025, 2026, and 2027


GPA: 3.50 weighted (core courses)Coursework: 16 college-prep credits Service/Work Hours: 100 volunteer hours, 100 paid work hours, or a mix Test Scores:


  • Class of 2025: SAT 1330 or ACT 29

  • Class of 2026 & 2027: SAT 1300 or ACT 28

This tier is the most competitive and offers full tuition coverage. Consistently high test scores and service hours are key for eligibility.


FMS Requirements by Graduation Year


GPA: 3.00 weighted (core courses)Coursework: 16 required college-prep credits Service/Work Hours: 75 volunteer hours, 100 paid work hours, or a combination Test Scores:


  • Class of 2025: SAT 1210 or ACT 25

  • Class of 2026 & 2027: SAT 1180 or ACT 25


This tier is more accessible while still offering significant tuition support. Many students who fall just short of FAS qualify for FMS.


Gold Seal CAPE Scholars (GSC)


GPA: No minimum Certifications: At least 5 postsecondary credit hours via CAPE industry certifications Service/Work Hours: 30 volunteer hours, 100 paid work hours, or both Test Scores: None required


GSC supports students pursuing technical education programs and is often available at career-focused high schools.


Gold Seal Vocational Scholars (GSV)


GPA: 3.00 in core courses, 3.50 unweighted in 3 vocational credits within a CTE program Test Scores: Required scores on SAT, ACT, or PERT Service/Work Hours: 30 volunteer hours, 100 paid hours, or a combination


Students aiming for careers in skilled trades or technical fields may find this scholarship best suited to their goals.


How to Apply for Florida Bright Futures


  1. Submit the FFAA Application at: floridastudentfinancialaidsg.org by August 31 of your graduation year

  2. Send Official Test Scores from SAT, ACT, or CLT to at least one Florida public college

  3. Document Your Hours according to school district guidelines (volunteer or paid work hours)

  4. Keep Academic Records Updated, including GPA and course completion


Maintaining Your Scholarship in College


Once awarded, you must meet these requirements each year:

  • Complete at least 24 semester credit hours per academic year

  • Maintain the required college GPA:

    • FAS: 3.00 cumulative

    • FMS, GSC, GSV: 2.75 cumulative

Failing to meet renewal requirements could result in reduced or suspended funding.


Tips for the Classes of 2025, 2026, and 2027

  • Test score thresholds are slightly lower for 2026 and 2027—advantageous for future applicants

  • Paid work hours now count toward your service requirement

  • Start early: accumulate hours gradually and keep detailed logs

  • Some colleges may also accept CLEP, CAPE, or AP credits as part of Bright Futures eligibility enhancements


Final Thoughts


The Florida Bright Futures requirements reward students who plan ahead, stay organized, and commit to both academics and service. Whether you're in the class of 2025, 2026, or 2027, understanding how to qualify is the first step toward earning free money for college.

For updated eligibility guidelines and award amounts, always check the official site:floridabrightfutures.gov



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