Finances

Payment Plans

Plan 1. Students will pay balance in full by the end of the drop/add period (See Academic Calendar). Students who have approved Financial Aid as documented by the Financial Aid Office will have the Aid applied toward the current semester charges and then be responsible for the remaining balance.

Plan 2. Students will have the option to sign up for various payment plan options prior to the end of the drop/add period (See Academic Calendar). Students who have approved Financial Aid as documented by the Financial Aid Office will have the Aid applied toward the current semester charges and then be responsible for selecting a payment plan for the remaining balance.

Non Payment Penalty

Students who fail to make the initial required payment will be dropped from classes at the end of drop/add period.

Students with an overdue account from the current or previous semester will not be allowed to register for the following/next semester.

Refund Policies

Drop/Add Refund Policy

Students who drop courses prior to the beginning of classes or during the drop/add period of any semester will receive a full refund of tuition and fees. No refunds will be granted for drops after the end of the drop/add period. In the fall and spring semesters drop/add begins the first day of the semester and extends for seven calendar days, not class days (see BUF Academic Calendar). In the eleven week summer session, drop/add begins the first class day and extends for seven calendar days (not class days).

Regular Withdrawal Refund Policy

Students who officially withdraw from school during the Fall or Spring semester will receive a tuition refund according to the following schedule.

Fall and Spring Semesters (Days=Calendar Days)

1-7 days 100% 22-28 days 50%

8-14 days 90% 29-65 days 25%

15-21 days 50% Later None

Summer Withdrawal Refund Policy

Students who officially withdraw from school during the Summer semester will receive a tuition refund according to the following schedule.

Summer Ten Week Courses (Days=Calendar Days)

1-7 days 100% 22-45 days 25%

8-14 days 80% Later None

15-21 days 50%

A student may occupy campus housing from semester to semester without interruption as long as he/she abides by the regulations. He/she rents housing on a semester basis - fall, spring and summer. Once the student occupies a housing unit, he/she is expected to reside in it for the entire semester and is obligated to pay the rent until the end of the semester. This requirement may be waived under the following condition:

If during a semester a resident withdraws from school or is called to live on a church field, he/she may request to be released from the rental agreement. A formal letter of employment from a church official, other than the resident, must accompany the request. Other rules for vacating will apply. With these things in order, the date the request was made may then serve as the date of notice given for vacating the unit.

Notes

Withdrawal refunds are granted only to students who officially withdraw. Withdrawal begins by contacting the Registrar’s Office.
All refund requests must be submitted to the Office of Business Affairs.
Refund processing will take approximately thirty days.
A week is considered to be five working days.

Transcripts of College Credits

Transcripts of credits earned at the university are sent upon written fulfillment of the “Request for BUF Transcript” located in the Registrar’s office and available for print on the university website. Forms completed must be mailed or hand delivered to the Registrar office. A fee is charged after the first two requests.

Contributions to the School and Students

BUF is a 501(c)(3) organization recognized by the IRS as a not-for-profit institution. Contributions to the school are tax deductible. However, contributions to a specific student’s account are not tax deductible.

Undergraduate Financial Aid

Baptist University of Florida participates in the full range of state and federal aid programs. In addition, several other programs are offered to help students meet the cost of attending the university. Financial assistance offered can be in the form of grants, employment, loans, or scholarships. The applicant’s financial need, academic achievement, community and school service, and potential achievement may be considered in determining eligibility for different programs. All financial aid forms, information and FAFSA link are available on the university website: www.buf.edu/financialaid. Paper applications for grants, scholarships and loans are available upon request.

Applicant Requirements

A student eligible to apply for financial aid...

is accepted in good academic standing and maintains satisfactory academic progress at the university;
is enrolled in an eligible program as a degree seeking student; courses not contributing to a student’s degree program will be ineligible for Title IV Federal funds;
is a U.S. citizen or eligible noncitizen and has a valid social security number;
owes no refund or repayment on a previous educational grant;
is not delinquent on a student education loan;
and, for programs based on financial need, has established financial eligibility through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Application Process

To initiate the application process for grants, loans, college work study, and to be considered for institutional scholarships, a student must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). BUF school code is 013001. Students may apply on-line through the university website or at www.studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa. The application period begins October 1 of each year for the following academic year. The FAFSA application may be sent any time throughout the year, but by early submission the applicant may be eligible for additional grants. Students must reapply for financial aid each academic year.

After BUF has received the results of the FAFSA from the government, the applicant will be informed of any additional forms needed to complete the process. Students must submit all required forms to the Financial Aid Office in order to be considered for any financial aid programs. For priority consideration of state grants, a student’s financial aid file must be complete by May 1. Institutional Scholarships will be awarded on a monthly basis beginning April 1. The Financial Aid Office will send each qualified student an award letter detailing the amount the student will receive in financial aid. Each student is responsible for payment of 75% of the difference between charges and financial aid by add/drop for the fall and spring semesters. For J-Term and summer semesters the difference between charges and financial aid must be paid in full by the first day of class.

Financial Need

A student’s financial need is the basis for awarding federal and state aid. Financial need is the difference between the Cost of Attendance (COA) and the Student Aid Index (SAI). The SAI is determined by the results of the processed Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Cost of Attendance

The Cost of Attendance (COA) for nine months is an average budget calculated by the Financial Aid Office. The following direct and indirect expenses, permitted by federal regulations, are taken into consideration:

Average tuition and fee charges for a full-time student

Average books and supply expenses

Average room and board (based on whether or not the student lives with parent(s)

Average transportation expense to and from school

Reasonable miscellaneous personal expenses

Standards of Satisfactory Progress for Financial Aid

In order to maintain financial aid eligibility, students must maintain satisfactory academic progress toward a degree. Specifically, this means that full-time students, those taking twelve or more semester hours, must successfully complete 2/3 of those hours each semester, and meet or exceed the appropriate cumulative grade point average for their classification. The minimum cumulative grade point requirements are as follows:

0-27 hours 1.40

28-60 hours 1.70

61-91 hours 2.00

92 or more hours 2.00

Grades of F, WP, WF, and W will not satisfy the academic progress requirements. Undergraduate full-time students are limited to a maximum of twelve fall or spring semesters of financial aid eligibility. The maximum length of eligibility is prorated proportionately for part-time students. Students enrolled for at least six semester hours, but less than twelve semester hours, must successfully complete each course attempted with the appropriate minimum academic progress. The student’s cumulative academic record will be evaluated each semester. Students must complete their degree program before attempting more than 150 percent of the total credit hours required for the program.

Warning/Probation

If students fail to meet all criteria of the standards of satisfactory progress for financial aid they will be placed on financial aid warning for one semester. If at the end of the semester the student earns the required grade point average and hours to be completed for this new stage of enrollment, the student will be considered to be making satisfactory progress and will be removed from warning status. However, if at the end of the warning period, the student is not meeting all satisfactory progress criteria, financial aid will be suspended. The student will be placed on financial aid probation.

Reinstatement

After students have attended a semester at Baptist University of Florida at their own expense, they may apply for financial aid reinstatement if they have met the standards of satisfactory progress for financial aid for that semester.

Appeals

If the student feels that there were mitigating circumstances such as illness, death or personal or family problems which caused the lack of progress, an appeal may be made to the Executive Vice-President of Academic Affairs by contacting the Director of Financial Aid.

Return of Title IV Aid Policy

Title IV financial aid includes Federal Pell Grants, Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOG), Federal Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans, and PLUS loans.

Students earn a portion of their financial aid each day they attend class. Attendance will be taken each day of class and failure to attend could result in the reduction or revocation of a student’s financial aid.

A student’s official withdrawal date is:

the date the student officially notifies the Registrar of his/her intent to withdraw. The withdrawal process begins by contacting the Registrar’s Office.

A student’s unofficial withdrawal date is:

the student’s last date of attendance at a documented academically-related activity

If a student enrolls for classes, but does not attend and does not officially withdraw, the university will assume, for Title IV financial aid purposes, the student has unofficially withdrawn. Funds may have to be returned to the U.S. Department of Education, unless there is documentation to indicate that the student completed the term enrolled.

After completing 60.5 percent of the calendar days for the term in which they are enrolled, the federal government considers 100 percent of the aid to be earned. Students, who withdraw from all classes prior to completing 60.5 percent of the term, may be required to repay all or part of the Title IV financial aid they received (See the 2024-2025 BUF Academic Calendar for dates). Under the Federal Title IV Repayment Policy, the percentage of Title IV aid earned shall be calculated as follows:

Number of calendar days completed up to and including the withdrawal date divided by total calendar days in the payment period, with the allowance for any scheduled breaks that are at least five (5) days long

The percentage of semester completed is the percentage of Title IV aid earned by the student

The percentage of Title IV aid unearned is 100% minus the percent earned

If the amount disbursed to the student is greater than the amount the student earned, unearned funds must be returned by the student. Loan funds are repaid in accordance with the terms of the promissory note. Any grant amount the student has to return is a grant overpayment. The student will be notified of the potential over award and will be required to make satisfactory payment arrangements with the federal government to return the funds.

If the amount disbursed to the student is less than the amount the student earned, and for which the student is otherwise eligible, the student is eligible to receive a Post-withdrawal disbursement of the earned aid that was not received. This may result in a credit balance for the student. Students with a credit balance will be notified by the Office of Business Affairs, according to the Institutional Refund policy.

When a student receives federal aid in excess of the earned aid, the school must return the lesser of the unearned amount of Title IV aid or the institutional charges for the term, multiplied by the percentage of unearned aid. The school will return any unearned aid for which it is responsible within 45 days of the date the school determined the student withdrew.

Federal regulations require Title IV aid to be refunded in the following order:

Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans

Federal Direct Subsidized Loans

Federal Direct PLUS Loans (for parents)

Federal Pell Grants

Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOG)

Students who owe the university due to a Title IV Repayment may be ineligible to re-enroll. They may also be ineligible for additional Title IV federal financial aid from any other university.

Students who receive Title IV funds must contact the Financial Aid Office before withdrawal from any or all classes to determine their financial aid liability.

Employment

In compliance with the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986, all employees hired after November 6, 1986, will be required to supply documents which provide proof of identity and eligibility for employment in the United States. Examples of such documents include:

1. Valid driver’s license and valid social security card;

*2. Certificate of United States Citizenship (INS Form N-456 or N-561);

*3. Certificate of Naturalization (INS Form N-550 or N-570);

*4. Alien registration receipt card;

*5. United States passport.

*For students who applied for residency or citizenship through the U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service.

Federal Work Study (FWS)

The Federal Work Study program enables students who demonstrate financial need the opportunity to earn money. Jobs are on campus and include work in offices, library, maintenance, etc. Submission of Free Application for Student Aid (FAFSA) is required to determine eligibility.

BUF Student Employment Program

Students may work on campus as student assistants without demonstrating a financial need under the BUF Student Employment Program. Applications are available on the university website or in the Office of Business Affairs.

The institution cannot guarantee student employment or future employment in the student’s chosen area of vocation.

Grants

BUF undergraduate students may receive federal and state grants. Grants are non-repayable funds awarded to eligible students.

Federal Pell Grants

Federal Pell Grants are non-repayable government funds provided to undergraduate students demonstrating financial need. These non-repayable funds are used to pay for educational costs. To be eligible, applicants must be degree-seeking, permanent U.S. residents who have not received a baccalaureate degree. Students may apply through the school’s website or at www.studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa. Awards are adjusted according to hours of enrollment.

Credit Hours Enrolled	Enrollment Level
1-5	Less than half-time
6 to 8	half-time
9 to 11	Three-quarter-time
12 or more	Full-time

Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG)

This non-repayable grant is awarded to Pell Grant eligible students, who have exceptional financial need. Awards are $400 per year. Students must be enrolled at least half-time to be eligible. FUNDS ARE HIGHLY LIMITED.

Florida Student Assistance Grant (FSAG)

FSAG is a state-funded program for permanent Florida residents who have lived in - state at least one year. These students must be full-time, degree-seeking and demonstrate financial need. Application is made by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Renewal requirements of students who received FSAG during the 2023-2024 academic year must have completed at least 24 credit hours with a cumulative GPA of 2.0. FUNDS ARE LIMITED.

Effective Access to Student Education Grant (EASE)
(formerly referred to as FRAG)

EASE is a state-funded program for permanent Florida Residents who have lived in-state at least one year. These students must be full-time and in a degree seeking program. They cannot be enrolled in a program of study leading to a degree in theology or divinity. Application is made by completing the BUF Financial Aid Application. Renewal requirements of students who received EASE during the 2023-2024 academic year must have completed at least 24 credit hours with a cumulative GPA of 2.0. FUNDS ARE LIMITED.

Florida Bright Futures Scholarship Program

The Florida Bright Futures Scholarship Program is a merit-based scholarship awarded to Florida high school seniors who have applied for and met the requirements of the program before they graduate from high school. The Bright Futures Program is comprised of the Florida Academic Scholars, Florida Academic Top Scholars, and Florida Medallion Scholars. Students must have their high school guidance counselors submit their test scores and completed coursework to the Florida Bright Futures Program at the Florida Department of Education.

Initial eligibility, renewal requirements (high school graduation requirements, required coursework, minimum grade point average [GPA], minimum ACT and SAT test score requirements and service hour requirements), and credit hour award amounts are listed on the Florida Bright Futures website at www.floridastudentfinancialaid.org.

Students who drop a course(s) or withdraw after the initial drop/add period, must reimburse the university the cost of the credit hour award to be returned to the Florida State Bright Futures Program.

Benefits for Veterans

The Veterans Administration provides educational assistance for veterans and determines a veteran’s eligibility for benefits. (See VA Re-entry and Standard of Progress.)

This agency also provides educational assistance to widows and children of veterans who died while in service or after discharge from a service connected disability. Wives and children of veterans who have a service connected disability considered to be total and permanent in nature are also eligible. Forms and information concerning certification for VA benefit purposes are available in the Financial Aid Office. VA student progress records are maintained by the Registrar’s Office and are available for student review during normal business hours (8:00 am – 5:00 pm).

VA Standard of Progress Policy

A VA student must maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.00 and complete at least 67% of the courses attempted within the semester to receive benefits. A VA student who fails to maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.00 or earn at least 67% of the courses attempted will be placed on academic probation for two consecutive semesters. If at the end of the second semester the student has not attained a cumulative GPA of 2.00 and earned at least 67% of the courses attempted, VA benefits will be terminated.

VA Re-entry Policy

A VA student whose benefits have been terminated due to unsatisfactory progress will be monitored each semester and upon attaining a cumulative (GPA) of 2.00 and earning at least 67% of the courses attempted may submit a specific request for resumption of benefits. The college will continue to monitor the student’s progress each semester and to counsel and offer guidance in order to resolve academic problems that will ensure successful completion of his/her education.

If at any time after recertification a student should again be placed on probation for more than two semesters or suspended, the VA will be promptly notified and benefits could be terminated.

Vocational Rehabilitation

The Florida Vocational Rehabilitation Commission provides services for disabled individuals with physical, learning, or emotional impairments. Application for services must be made through a representative of the commission. Students interested in applying for services should write or call the office in their home community or: Vocational Rehabilitation, 4357 Lafayette Street, Suite 202, Marianna, FL 32446-0000. Telephone: (850) 482-9600.

Graduate Financial Aid

Applicant Requirements

A student eligible to apply for financial aid...

is accepted in good academic standing and maintains satisfactory academic progress at the university;
is enrolled in an eligible program as a regular student seeking a degree;
is a U.S. citizen or eligible noncitizen and has a valid social security number;
owes no refund or repayment on a previous educational grant;
is not delinquent on a student education loan.

Application Process

To initiate the application process for loans, a student must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). BUF school code is 013001. Students may apply on-line through the university website or at www.studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa. The application period begins October 1 of each year for the following academic year. The FAFSA application may be sent any time throughout the year. Students must reapply for financial aid each academic year.

After BUF has received the results of the FAFSA from the government, the applicant will be informed of any additional forms needed to complete the process. Students must submit all required forms to the Financial Aid Office in order to be considered for any financial aid programs. The Financial Aid Office will send each qualified student an award letter detailing the amount the student will receive in financial aid. Each student is responsible for payment of 75% of the difference between charges and financial aid by the end of the add/drop period for the fall and spring semesters. For J-Term and summer semesters the difference between charges and financial aid must be paid in full by the first day of class.

Standards of Satisfactory Progress for Financial Aid

In order to maintain financial aid eligibility, students must maintain satisfactory academic progress toward a degree. Specifically, this means that full-time students, those taking six or more semester hours (see “Semester Plan” in the Academics section), must successfully complete 1/2 of those attempted hours each semester, and meet or exceed the appropriate cumulative grade point average for their classification. The minimum cumulative grade point requirement is 2.5.

Grades of F, WP, WF, and W will not satisfy the academic progress requirements. The maximum length of eligibility is prorated proportionately for part-time students. Students enrolled for at least three semester hours, but less than six semester hours, must successfully complete each course attempted with the appropriate minimum academic progress. The student’s cumulative academic record will be evaluated each semester.

Warning/Probation

If students fail to meet all criteria of the standards of satisfactory progress for financial aid they will be placed on financial aid warning for one semester. If at the end of the semester the student earned the required grade point average and hours to be completed for this new stage of enrollment, the student will be considered to be making satisfactory progress and will be removed from warning status. However, if at the end of the warning period, the student is not meeting all satisfactory progress criteria, financial aid will be suspended. The student will be placed on financial aid probation.

Reinstatement

Appeals

If the student feels that there were mitigating circumstances such as illness, death or personal or family problems which caused the lack of progress, an appeal may be made to the Office of Business Affairs by contacting the Director of Financial Aid.

Return of Title IV Aid Policy

Graduate Title IV Financial Aid is Unsubsidized Loans.

A student’s official withdrawal date is:

the date the student officially notifies the Registrar of his/her intent to withdraw. The withdrawal process begins by contacting the Registrar’s Office.

A student’s unofficial withdrawal date is:

the student’s last date of attendance at a documented academically-related activity

After completing 60.5 percent of the calendar days for the term in which they are enrolled, the federal government considers 100 percent of the aid to be earned. Students, who withdraw from all classes prior to completing 60.5 percent of the term, may be required to repay all or part of the Title IV financial aid they received. (See the 2024-2025 BUF Academic Calendar for dates) Under the Federal Title IV Repayment Policy, the percentage of Title IV aid earned shall be calculated as follows:

The percentage of semester completed is the percentage of Title IV aid earned by the student

The percentage of Title IV aid unearned is 100% minus the percent earned

Students who owe the university due to a Title IV Repayment may be ineligible to re-enroll. They may also be ineligible for additional Title IV federal financial aid from any other college.

Students who receive Title IV funds must contact the Financial Aid Office before withdrawal from any or all classes to determine their financial aid liability.

Employment

1. Valid driver’s license and valid social security card;

*2. Certificate of United States Citizenship (INS Form N-456 or N-561);

*3. Certificate of Naturalization (INS Form N-550 or N-570);

*4. Alien registration receipt card;

*5. United States passport.

*For students who applied for residency or citizenship through the U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service.

Loans

Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans-Preparatory Coursework

A student may apply for a direct subsidized/unsubsidized loan for preparatory course work the school has documented is necessary for the student to enroll in a graduate program. If enrolled at least half time, the student is eligible for loans for one consecutive 12 month period beginning on the first day of the loan period.

Annual Limits for Subsidized loans - $5,500

Annual Limits for Unsubsidized loans - $7,000

Direct Unsubsidized Loans-Graduate

Annual Limits for Unsubsidized loans - $20,500

Aggregate Loan Limits - $138,500 for graduate or professional students - No more than $65,500 of this amount may be in subsidized loans. The graduate aggregate limit includes all federal loans received for undergraduate study.

To apply for a student loan, students must:

Complete the FAFSA, and have a valid ISIR or SAR in the Financial Aid office.
Complete the financial aid application and student fee authorization. All financial aid forms, information and FAFSA link, are available on the school’s website: www.buf.edu/financialaid.
Complete a Master Promissory Note (MPN) and on-line entrance counseling session with the Department of Education, IF one has not previously been submitted. The DOE website is www.studentaid.gov.

Veterans

The Veterans Administration provides educational assistance for veterans and determines a veteran’s eligibility for benefits. (See VA Re-entry and Standard of Progress.) This agency also provides educational assistance to widows and children of veterans who died while in service or after discharge from a service connected disability. Wives and children of veterans who have a service connected disability considered to be total and permanent in nature are also eligible. Forms and information concerning certification for VA benefit purposes are available in the Financial Aid Office. VA student progress records are maintained by the Registrar’s Office and are available for student review during normal business hours (8:00am – 5:00pm).

VA Standard of Progress Policy

A VA student must maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.50 to receive benefits. A VA student who fails to maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.50 will be placed on academic probation for two consecutive semesters. If at the end of the second semester the student has not attained a cumulative GPA of 2.50, VA benefits will be terminated.

VA Re-entry Policy

A VA student whose benefits have been terminated due to unsatisfactory progress will be monitored each semester and upon attaining a cumulative GPA of 2.50 may submit a specific request for resumption of benefits. The university will continue to monitor the student’s progress each semester and to counsel and offer guidance in order to resolve academic problems that will ensure successful completion of his/her education.

If at any time after recertification a student should again be placed on probation for more than two semesters or suspended, the VA will be promptly notified and benefits could be terminated.

Vocational Rehabilitation

Payment of Accounts

The university’s credit, collection and payment policies exist in order to maintain a fair, consistent and sound business relationship.

Points to remember:

All tuition, fees, and housing charges are assessed and due when you register. Student aid funds will be posted to the student’s account to satisfy these charges. All balances due will be handled in accordance with the deferred payment plans as outlined below.
Some miscellaneous charges may be assessed during the semester.
All charges for fall and spring semesters (J-term considered to be a spring semester charge) may be paid when you complete registration at the Office of Business Affairs.
Summer school charges must be paid in full at the Office of Business Affairs before each session begins.
Students living in campus housing must pay summer rent by the first day of the month for June and July. Rent charges will not be deferred to the fall semester.
The university accepts all major credit cards. Personal checks will be accepted toward payments on accounts. However, no campus office will cash checks. “Insufficient funds” checks presented for payment will incur a $20 “Insufficient funds” charge.
Students who receive Veterans benefits will be given special consideration in payment of accounts. Baptist University of Florida will not:
1. Prevent the student from enrollment;
2. Assess a late penalty fee to the student;
3. Require the student to secure alternative or additional funding;
4. Deny the student access to any resources (access to classes, libraries, or other institutional facilities) available to other students who have satisfied their tuition and fee bills to the institution.
5. However, to qualify for this provision, such students may be required to:
  1. Produce the VA Certificate of Eligibility (COE) by the first day of class;
  2. Provide a written request to be certified;
  3. Provide additional information needed to properly certify the enrollment as described in other institutional polices.
Funds received from all student aid, state and federal grants, Tuition Assistance Program, William D. Ford Direct Loans, and scholarships will be credited to the student’s account in the Office of Business Affairs. Any excess funds (credit balances) on a student’s account, after all monies above have been applied, may be withdrawn by the student in accordance with guidelines established by State and Federal agencies administering the funds. NO FUNDS MAY BE WITHDRAWN BY THE STUDENT UNLESS THE STUDENT ACCOUNT HAS A CREDIT BALANCE.
Students who meet all of the following criteria are eligible to receive refunds by the seventh day of a payment period for the purpose of obtaining books and supplies.
1. The student is eligible for a Federal Pell Grant.
2. Has a complete financial aid file ten (10) days prior to the payment period and disbursed funds would create a Title IV credit balance.
3. Has met all eligibility requirements for the funds ten (10) days before the beginning of the payment period.
4. Has submitted all required documentation and all conflicting information has been resolved.
5. Has met all financial aid deadlines.

Loans

William D. Ford Direct Loan Program

Student loans are available through the Direct Loan program. Students must complete the FAFSA and have a valid ISIR or SAR in the Financial Aid Office in order to apply for a federal loan. Loans are available to students who are enrolled in a program of study and are attending at least half-time. The annual student loan acknowledgment is mandatory each year a student accepts a new federal student loan and the financial aid office must have a confirmation of completion. Both entrance and exit counseling are mandatory requirements and the financial aid office must have confirmation of completion. Students may complete their annual student loan acknowledgment and counseling sessions online at www.studentaid.gov. The annual student loan acknowledgement and entrance counseling confirmation must be received before the release of the first disbursement. Exit counseling is required before a borrower graduates or ceases at least half-time enrollment. Students must have a completed financial aid file before the loan request form will be processed. The borrower is required to repay the loan according to the repayment schedule.

Direct Subsidized Loan

Subsidized loans are need based. Borrowers must show a financial need to be eligible. The federal government will pay the interest on these loans while the borrower remains enrolled in school at least half-time. Maximum annual loan limits:

Dependent Undergraduate Student	Independent Undergraduate Student	Hours Earned
Freshman $3,500	Freshman $3,500	0 - 27
Sophomore $4,500	Sophomore $4,500	28 - 60
Juniors & Seniors $5,500	Juniors & Seniors $5,500	61 -

The aggregate maximum any student may borrow under this program is $23,000.

Direct Unsubsidized Loan

Students may also apply for a non-need based loan. The conditions and amounts for this loan are identical to the Subsidized Loan, except students may pay the interest while in school, or have the interest capitalized into the loan for repayment after graduation. Dependent students are eligible for an additional $2,000. Independent students or students whose parents are denied for the Parent’s Loan for Undergraduate Students (PLUS), may be eligible to borrow additional funding.

Direct Parent Loan for Undergraduate Students (PLUS)

The PLUS loan is a program for the parents of dependent undergraduate students who need additional financial aid.

Parents who demonstrate appropriate credit worthiness are eligible and may borrow up to the annual cost of attendance, minus any other aid.

PLUS loan eligibility is not need based; however, the student must be at least half time.

Repayment of a PLUS loan begins within 60 days of loan disbursement. Deferments are available.

Scholarships

Scholarships and Discounts 2025-2026

(Scholarships & Discounts Apply to Full-Time Undergraduate Graceville Students Only Unless Otherwise Noted)

Tuition Discounts (Applied Before Endowed Scholarships)

Family Discount

15% Off Tuition for Students of Same Household (Residential and Online only; Dual-Credit and Language Programs are Ineligible)

Dual-Credit Discount

10% Off Tuition for Students Who Receive Associate’s Degree through BUF Dual-Credit Program (Cannot be combined with Family Discount; Language Programs are Ineligible)

Merit Based Discount Programs for First Year or Transfer Students

(Current BUF students ineligible)

BUF Soaring Eagles-- $2500 per Academic Year
- HS or Current College GPA 3.00-3.99 (Official Transcript Required)
- Min. 75 Volunteer, 100 Paid, or 100 Combined Service Hours (Must be Documented)
- Must Maintain GPA and Service Hours for Renewal
BUF Golden Eagles-- $5000 Per Year
- HS or Current College GPA 4.00 (Official Transcript Required)
- Min. 75 Volunteer, 100 Paid, or 100 Combined Service Hours (Must be Documented)
- Must Maintain GPA of 3.80-4.00 and Service Hours for Renewal
BUF Harpy Discount-- $2500 per Academic Year
- Residential, International Student
- Must Maintain Minimum GPA of 3.0 for Renewal.
BUF Convocation Discount-- Up to 50% Off Tuition for Master’s Degree
- International Pastors/School Administrators Receive 10% Off Tuition for Each Student (5 Students Max.) They Refer to BUF.
- To Qualify Students Must Be Accepted and Actively Enrolled.
National Merit Scholar-- Full Tuition Scholarship
- Competition Sponsored by the National Merit Scholarship Competition, Students Must Take PSAT/NMSQT During Junior Year of High School to Enter Competition for Senior
  Year.

Scholarships (Applied at Discretion of Administration for Student’s Unmet Need)

Cloer Scholarship

First Year as BUF Student, On-Campus, Graceville Residential Student-- $3,000 per Academic Year (Limited to the first 100 Students)

Florida Baptist Church Staff Scholarship

Paid Staff at a Florida Southern Baptist Church in good standing with the Florida Baptist Convention-- $1,500 per Academic Year (Online Students Eligible) (Cannot be combined with Language Program Scholarships)

Oney Scholarship

Students enrolled in Business Leadership, Cybersecurity, or Allied Health programs-- $1,000 per Academic Year (Online Eligible)

Strickland Scholarship

Returning Residential Students-- $1,500 per Academic Year

IMB Children Scholarship

Children (Under 30) of Currently Serving Southern Baptist IMB Missionary-- Covers One Undergraduate and One Graduate Program
Tuition Free for On-Campus Students in Graceville (Student Must Pay Fees, Housing, and Meals)
50% Tuition Scholarship for Online Graduate, Undergraduate, and Dual-Credit.
Additional Eligibility Requirements:
1. Must be under 30 years of age,
2. A degree seeking full-time student (15 hours per semester),
3. Taking classes residentially in Graceville.
The student must complete an undergraduate degree in 4 years. The students seeking a graduate degree must complete theirs in 3 years. The student must also maintain a 2.5 GPA or better to keep the scholarship. If the student does not keep the expected GPA, the University has the right to revoke or reduce the scholarship.

Music/Worship Scholarship
First Year, On-Campus, Undergraduate Students enrolled in a music program leading to a degree in music/worship-- $2,000 per Year

International Student Scholarship

International Student in a Residential, Undergraduate or Graduate Ministry Studies Program-- $3000 per Year

Florida Baptist Online-Undergraduate Scholarship

Online, undergraduate students who are members of a Florida Southern Baptist Church in good standing with the Florida Baptist Convention-- $1000 per Year (Cannot Be Combined With Language Program Scholarships)

Ambassadors

Graceville campus undergraduate and graduate students who are members of music ensembles, athletes, or students who work with the Admissions and Development offices as representatives of the University-- $1500

Application Process

It is the policy of the institution that no scholarships will be awarded without the completion of the current year’s FAFSA. All financial aid applications and forms are available on the university website (www.buf.edu/financial-aid-forms) or in the Financial Aid Office. Initial applications, reapplications and all accompanying documentation must be submitted by August 1 of each year. Applications are available on the university website and in the Financial Aid Office. Scholarships are awarded each fall and spring semester, as funds are available. For priority consideration of state grants, a student’s financial aid file must be complete by May 1. Institutional scholarships will be awarded on a monthly basis beginning April 1.

BUF Scholarship Donors

The following is a list of donors who have funded the scholarships granted by the university:

75th Anniversary Scholarship
Alabama Alumni
Charles F. and Willa Albright
Rev. Timothy I. Alexander
Winifred Allen
Ben and Barbara Amlong
Angus Lane Anderson and Mary Shy Anderson
Anderson Annual
Anderson Family Foundation, Inc.
Sara Lucile Anderson l
William “Dub” Anderson Student Aid Fund
A. B. and Hilda Andrews Family
Peggy Ange
Apalachee/Gadsden County Baptist Association Hispanic
Carl Arant
Helene G. Argo
Agnes P. Axson
Judge W. L. Bailey
Bailey-Cox Music
Balkum Baptist Church
Baptist College of Florida Alumni Association
Christopher M. Barber
June Esther Bateman
W. O. Beauchamp, Jr.
A.B. Bedsole
Leroy Benefield
Dr. and Mrs. Leroy Benefield
Jeff and Mina Bloodworth
John W. and Irene Blount
T. S. Boehm
Irene S. Boman
Olene Braxton
J. Walter and Missouri Brewer
Homer A. and Irma W. Brinkley
Rev. and Mrs. Howard C. Browning
Timothy and Christopher Burns
Byrd Family Scholarship
Robert Edward Chapman, Sr.
The Chatlos Foundation
Bobby L. & Shirley T. Christie Trust Scholarship (endowed)
Thomas Perkins Clifford
Jesse W. Clopton, Sr.
Evelyn Collier Education
W. Harrison Conley
Thomas B. Conrad
Bill Cook
Willis Coulliette
Joe and Ann Courson
George E. Crowell, Sr.
Eleanor Crutchfield
Hugh and Shirley Dampier
J. Nixon Daniel, Sr. and J. Nixon Daniel, Jr.
Harold A. Dann
Charles and Martha Davis
John Dicks
John H. Dicks
Arminta L. Donaldson
Jacqueline Marie Daniels and Jaqueline Draughon
Jacqueline Perry Draughon International
Walter D. Draughon, Jr.
Alfred I. duPont Foundation
Mattye E. DuPree
Floyd and Lottie Dykes
Calvin and Claudia Edeker
A. M. and Mae Everett and Lillian S. Nagy
Lloyd T Ezell and Ruth Deloney Ezell
Faculty Wives
C. W. Fambrough
First Baptist Church of Eau Gallie
First Baptist Church of Port Charlotte
First Newark Baptist Church
Shelby Foster Fisher

Florida Baptist Ministerial & Theological
Florida Campers on Mission
Florida Haitian Baptist Fellowship
Doris Forrest
Milton and Nancy Gardner Ministerial Scholarship
Milton and Nancy Gardner Music Scholarship
James M., Jr. and Josephine C. Garrett
Dr. R.E. and Grace Glaze Scholarship (endowed)
Mr. and Mrs. L. V. Graham, Sr.
Graves/O’Quinn
Greenwood Baptist Church
Herman F. Greer
Dalton Hagler, Sr.
Lillie J. Haire
Hall, Hoffman, and Leary
Flora Jo Hall
James S. Hallford and Lona Eloise Hallford
Robin N Hamilton
T.J. and Mary Frances Harris
Thomas Granville Hayden
Violet Hayward
Jim Henry
Donald Hepburn III Charitable Trust Scholarship
Carlton and Lydia Herndon
Hickox Memorial Scholarship
Lois B. and John Hipps
Dr. and Mrs. J. E. Hodges
Travis and Ruth Hudson Emergency Aid Fund
Grace Hudspeth
Earl Hutto Foundation
M. Dewitt and Theresa Jackson
Jakin Baptist Church
James-Hudspeth
W. K. Jenkins
Dale A. Johnson
Gus E. and Gena H. Johnson
Judah
Robin Jumper
Dwight and Carolyn Kelley
Jesse Craig Kennon
Ketner Family
Donna Kincaid
Ruth Ann Kinchen
Tom and Ruth Ann Kinchen
N. B. Langford
David Lauen
J. W. and Joyce Lee
M. J., P. J. and W. P. Lee
Philip W. Lett
JoAnna Cutler Lewis Memorial Scholarship (endowed)
Archie Linderman Litzell
Livingston Scholarship
N. Edward Mann
J. G. Manuel
Thomas E. (Marty) Martin
Mark Douglas Mayhew Annual Scholarship
Earldene McCorvey
Judson and Nellie McElroy
Ray McKendree
McRae and Knight
James P. and M. Ruby Medlin
Earl H. Merritt Annual
Earl H. Merritt
L. Don Miley
J. Ronnie Miller
R.C. & Lois Mills
F. H. Morgan
G. W. and Mary Frances Morrow
Mount Pleasant Baptist Church
John L. Murrell
Bertie Nalls
F. H. Nelson
J.A. and Ethel Nichols

Warren J. Nubern Memorial
Sidney J. and Mary C. Ogletree
Jerry and Shelvie Oswalt
Peggy Sue & Rita Oswalt
J.T. and Charlotte Owens
Edward & Evelyn Owens and James & Willie McCormick
Betty Parker
Violet Pearson
M. G. and Ethel P. Pigg
Pine Hill Baptist Church
Presidential
Promise Land Retreat
Providence Village Baptist Church
Leonard G. Ratzlaff
Paula Evens Rawls
Rice-Savell
Richards Graduate
Max and Laura Robinett
Marion C. Roche
Barbara Ross
James M. Scott, Jr.
Travis H. Scott, Jr.
James H. and Voncile B. Senterfitt
Sepulga Baptist Church
Servant Leadership Award
Serena Shutt
Harold and Marie Smith
Jefferson Lee Smith
Robert N. Solomon
Jim and Mabel Southerland
Southern Baptist Foundation
Jerry and Helen Sowell
Spangenberg
L.D. and D. M. Spivey
C. H. and Ruth B. St. John
Arthur Stainback
St. Andrews Baptist Church and Mark & Angie Rathel
Lloyd and Eva Mae Stanland
Herman and Libby Stevenson
Gerry Strawn
Marvin and Hazel Starling
John and Nancy Sullivan
Taylor Summers and Janie Johnston Moorer
Harold and Mary Ann Taylor
Kay S. Taylor
Lanis E. Taylor
Purvis N. Taylor
Thacker Family
Eugene Thompson
Cephas and Frances Tidwell
Tolson Bivo Ministers Scholarship
Austin Lavon Tomlinson
William E. Touchton, Jr.
O. H. Townley
Mr. and Mrs. W. B. Townley, Sr.
Martha P. Trotter
Eva Rebecca Vaughn
C. N. and Nell K. Walker
Gladys Wasdin
Glen Watford
John C. Watson and Julian & Cammie Cole Webb
West Florida Associational Brotherhood
Pencie W. Wester
Tom and Becky Wheeler
James W. Whitfield and Charles D. Crews
James Whitworth
Jerry L. Widner and Grace Widner Oswalt Scholarship (endowed)
Glen & Margaret Willsey
Luther W. & Ruby R. Woodward
Ken Yates
Ms. Jewell (Zalenski)

Fees

Auditing fee-per course	150.00
Books and supplies, approximate cost per semester (est.)	600.00
PERT fee	35.00
Meal Plans (Students)
25 meals	300.00
50 meals	600.00
80 meals	960.00
Meal Plans (Faculty and Staff)
25 meals	250.00
50 meals	500.00
80 meals	800.00
Undergraduate graduation fee (non-refundable)	100.00
Graduate graduation fee (non-refundable)	150.00
Graduation fee for dual degree (non-refundable)	130.00
Housing:*
Apartment Lock/Key Replacement Charge	50.00
Apartment Reassignment Charge	150.00
Apartment Security Deposit	200.00
Apartment Water/Garbage Charge (Fall and Spring)	500.00
Apartment Water/Garbage Charge (Summer)	200.00
Apartments for Families:
Lakeview Apartments
(Fall and Spring)	2,000.00
(Summer)	800.00
Southwest Apartments
(Fall and Spring)	1,625 - 1,750.00
(Summer)	650 - 700.00
Taylor Duplex
(Fall and Spring)	2,500.00
(Summer)	1,000.00
Brown House
(Fall and Spring)	2,500.00
(Summer)	1,000.00
Late Lease Renewal Charge	100.00
Residence Hall, per person, per semester, double occupancy
Tier 1 - 10 meals	4,000.00
Tier 2 - 15 meals	5,000.00
Summer (no meal plan)	800.00
Residence Hall, per person, per semester, single occupancy
Tier 1 - 10 meals	5,500.00
Tier 2 - 15 meals	6,000.00
Summer (no meal plan)	1,000.00
Residence Hall Deposit	100.00
Laundry Fee, per person, per semester	100.00
Residence Hall Improper Check-out Fee	50.00
Residence Hall Key Replacement Fee	5.00
Residence Hall Room Change Fee	25.00
Residence Hall Fines
Blinds	25.00
Shower Rod	30.00
Curtain Rod	30.00
Identification Card Replacement	5.00
Late registration fee (non-refundable)	50.00
Online Orientation Fee (IT 110N)	200.00
Pin number replacement fee	10.00
Returned check charge (non-refundable)	20.00
Technology fee, per semester	350.00
Transcripts	5.00 each
Tuition, residential - per credit hour	460.00
Tuition, dual credit*** - per credit hour	100.00
Tuition, online student - per credit hour	375.00
Tuition, undergraduate certificate - per credit hour	375.00
Music fees:
Ensemble lab fee, per semester for ME 101, ME 209, ME 303, ME 307, ME 311, ME 313, ME 314, MP 206 and ME 320	25.00
Keyboard, voice, instrumental and guitar lessons:
Class instruction, per semester for MG 115, MP 100, MP 115, MP 116, MP 215, MP 216, MV 115, MV 116	30.00
Private instruction, per semester for MUS 150I - MUS 451I, MUS 100K - MUS 451K, MUS 150V - MUS 4510V
One one-half hour lesson weekly, per semester	200.00
One hour lesson weekly, per semester	300.00
Recital fees for MU 420 and MUS 460	50.00
Teacher Education Fee:
GoReact Fee for EDU 3020, EDU 4005, EDU 4010, EDU 4020, EDU 4025, EDU 4090, ESOL 3701, ESOL 3705, ESOL 3710, RED 3005, RED 3006, RED 4001, RED 4002, RED 4005	10.00 per course
General Knowledge Test-Reading, English Language Skills, Essay (First Attempt) for EDU 2000	110.00
General Knowledge Test-Math (First Attempt) for EDU 2005	$40.00

* Commuter meal plans can only be used in the semester they are purchased.

** These charges will be assessed at the beginning of the semester.

*** Unless otherwise stated in a separate articulation agreement.

Some courses may have additional fees associated with travel.

Rental Deposits

Students planning to live on campus must make a reservation and deposit after being approved for admission. Deposits are $100.00 for a residence hall room and $200.00 for an apartment. Space is limited. A student is assigned to housing or placed on the waiting list only after he/she is approved for admission and makes the appropriate deposit. When the student moves off campus or graduates, the deposit may be refunded after the inspection of the residence hall or apartment is completed by the Office of Student Housing. In the event the student has an outstanding balance, the deposit is transferred to the student account. Housing is rented on a semester basis, but the university reserves the right to take possession at any time the administration deems advisable.