I'm eligible for Bright Futures, but I'm thinking about taking a gap year before college. Can I defer the scholarship or is it strictly tied to immediate college enrollment after high school?
Yes, you can defer your Florida Bright Futures Scholarship during a gap year. You need to request the Office of Student Financial Assistance (OSFA). It's important to note that the deferment is valid only for one academic year and the student should start their postsecondary education in the following academic year. In other words, if you graduate from high school in May 2025 and take a gap year, you would need to use your Bright Futures scholarship to begin college in the 2026-2027 academic year. Please ensure to consult with your high school guidance counselor or contact OSFA directly for specific guidance.
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