Does FAFSA Cover International Schools?

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) helps students finance higher education by determining eligibility for federal grants, loans, and work-study programs. Federal student aid through FAFSA generally does not extend to most institutions outside the United States, with only limited exceptions.

School Eligibility for Federal Aid

For an educational institution to qualify for federal student aid programs, it must be located within the United States and accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. This strict requirement ensures that federal funds are directed to institutions operating under U.S. educational standards and oversight. Most international schools do not meet these criteria, as they typically operate under the educational frameworks and accreditation bodies of their respective countries.

The U.S. Department of Education maintains a list of foreign institutions eligible to participate in federal student aid programs, specifically Title IV of the Higher Education Act. These eligible foreign schools are primarily freestanding graduate medical, veterinary, or nursing schools. They must meet specific regulatory standards outlined in 34 C.F.R. Part 600 and Part 668. Gaining and maintaining this eligibility is rigorous, requiring detailed applications and ongoing compliance with U.S. federal regulations. While a limited number of other foreign institutions may also be eligible, federal aid for study abroad is not widely available.

A U.S. student attending an eligible foreign institution can typically only access federal Direct Loans, such as Stafford and PLUS loans. Unlike domestic students, those enrolled in eligible foreign schools are not eligible for federal grant programs, including the Federal Pell Grant or the Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH) Grant. This highlights that federal aid for international study focuses on loan assistance rather than grant support.

Student Eligibility for Federal Aid

Students must meet specific personal eligibility criteria to receive federal funds, even if attending an eligible international school. A student must be a U.S. citizen or an eligible non-citizen, such as a U.S. permanent resident with a green card or a U.S. national. All applicants must possess a valid Social Security number to complete the FAFSA.

Students must have a high school diploma or its recognized equivalent, such as a General Educational Development (GED) certificate. Maintaining satisfactory academic progress in their program of study is an ongoing requirement for federal aid eligibility. A student cannot be in default on any federal student loans or owe a refund on any federal student grants.

The FAFSA Application Process

The FAFSA application process begins with creating a Federal Student Aid ID (FSA ID). This FSA ID, consisting of a username and password, serves as the electronic signature for the FAFSA and other U.S. Department of Education websites. Both the student and, if applicable, their parent(s) need their own unique FSA ID, which should be kept secure and never shared.

Applicants can access the FAFSA online at studentaid.gov. The form guides users through various sections, requiring information such as personal demographics, school choices, dependency status questions, and detailed financial information, including federal tax data. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Direct Data Exchange often facilitates the transfer of tax information.

Once completed and reviewed for accuracy, the FAFSA must be signed electronically using the FSA ID and submitted. After submission, the applicant receives a confirmation page detailing the submission date and next steps. The U.S. Department of Education processes the application, and the student receives a Student Aid Report (SAR). This report summarizes the information provided, indicates eligibility for federal student aid, and is sent to the schools listed on the FAFSA for aid package determination.