Sponsored: This post was sponsored by Florida Prepaid College Plans. All opinions expressed in this blog post are my own and not influenced in any way by the sponsor. I was compensated for this post, but that does not impact my views or opinions.
All photos in this post were taken by HSGORDON Photography.
Hey new residents! Welcome to Florida…or if you’re anything like this mama–my home city of Boca Raton! There are so many wonderful reasons to live here. I’m so glad we relocated back in late 2013 from New York City after we had our daughter, #dailybocaavery. You can call me…a Boca boomerang of sorts!
We have amazing parks, beaches, museums, restaurants, healthcare, shopping and A-rated schools. And I know that firsthand being a South Florida native. Speaking of schools, did you know Boca Raton has 4 colleges and universities? Your child never has to leave town to get a great higher education. And now that you’re a local resident, you can also take advantage of our amazing state programs like Florida Prepaid and the Bright Futures Scholarship Program!
Saving for College with Florida Prepaid and Bright Futures Scholarships
Florida Prepaid offers plans that give state residents the option to set aside finances for their child’s higher education as soon as he or she is born. We’re talking the future cost of tuition, fees and even dormitory housing. The earlier you start, the cheaper your monthly installments are. It’s really beneficial to start saving when your child is a newborn!
Florida Bright Futures is a Lottery-funded scholarship program that rewards any Florida high school graduate who merits recognition of high academic achievement. The graduate must enroll in a degree program, certificate program or applied technology program at an eligible Florida public or private postsecondary education institution. The scholarship covers tuition only.
I was awarded a Florida Bright Futures Scholarship which covered 100% of my tuition had I attended a public university. Because I attended private school, I was awarded a set amount and it was up to me and my parents to cover the rest of the costs. I wish I had had a Florida Prepaid Plan back then!
Florida Prepaid and Bright Futures Scholarships Can Be Used Together!
Florida Prepaid and Bright Futures Scholarships are a winning combo when used together. It’s actually a question I often get asked as a Florida resident: How does Bright Futures work if I also have a Florida Prepaid Plan?
- In most cases, the Florida College or University will bill Florida Prepaid first, and then any Bright Futures awards can help cover the remaining expenses that are not covered under the Plan (such as books, transportation or lab fees).
- The remaining balance of the Bright Futures award will be deposited to the student’s bank account, and those funds could be used toward housing and living expenses.
- Florida Prepaid Plans and Bright Futures Scholarships can be used during the summer.
Florida Prepaid plan-holders can request to defer the use of their Prepaid Plan and use the Bright Futures Scholarship first if they so choose. All you have to do is contact Florida Prepaid’s customer service team!
What Happens When My Child is Finally Ready for College Here in Florida or Elsewhere?
When your child is finally ready for college, your plan will pay the tuition and most fees at any Florida College or State University. If your child attends an out-of-state college or private college, the plan will pay the same amount as it would pay at a public college or university in Florida.
Plus, every Prepaid Plan is guaranteed by the State of Florida and you can never lose what you pay into it.
Is There a Catch?
Sure, it can get hot…real hot here. But overall, our city is pretty darn close to perfect! I’m so thrilled to raise my daughter in Boca Raton right where I grew up. Hope to see you around town!
And welcome to Florida!
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