Lift Scholars Frequently Asked Questions

Lift Scholars Eligibility Requirements:

  • 2026-2029 Jones Graduate
  • Earned a standard high school diploma
  • Submitted official HS Transcripts, FAFSA, and proof of Florida residency
  • Declared major
  • Enroll by Spring term following high school graduation

 

Lift Scholars Maintenance Requirements:

  • File FAFSA every year
  • Obtain at least 12 credits per academic year
  • Choose courses in compliance with your major
  • Uphold a 2.0 GPA or higher
  • Secure your credential within 5 years

 

Question Answer
I’m a 2024 Jones High School graduate, am I eligible for this program? Currently, only 2026-2029 graduates are eligible for the Lift Scholars Program.
What's the deadline for applying? We encourage you to register soon so that you're able to enroll in the Program that best suits your needs and goals. Specific deadlines vary by semester and Program, but you must be registered for at least one course or enrolled in an Accelerated Skills Training program by the Spring semester following your high school graduation date to qualify for the Lift Scholars Program.

If I graduated in 2026, but did not enroll until Fall of 2028, am I still eligible?

 No, the enrollment deadline for 2026 graduates is Spring 2027.
If I graduated in 2026, but did not enroll until Fall of 2028, am I still eligible?

 

 No, the enrollment deadline for 2026 graduates is Spring 2027.
Do I need to have a certain GPA or test scores to qualify? No, all you need is a standard high school diploma from Jones High School.
I have already applied to Valencia College for Fall. Do I need to do anything else to qualify?

If you already applied to Valencia for the Fall, you'll only need to:

  • Register for at least one course, or an Accelerated Skills Training program in the first Summer, Fall or Spring semester after graduation.
  • Complete the FAFSA* (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). If you are not eligible to complete the FAFSA due to immigration status or other issues, you'll have the option to tell us, and we'll let you know what to do next.
  • Ensure your final high school transcripts are sent to Valencia College.

Other than that, see below on what you can do to prepare to be successful during your first semester in college.
If I earn a Certificate of Completion, am I eligible for Lift Scholars? Unfortunately, we are only able to offer this program to graduates who earned a standard diploma.
Why do I have to submit proof of Florida residency? All students are automatically assigned Non-Residents. To ensure that you are being charged the appropriate fees and tuition, you must submit proof of Florida residency.
Am I still eligible for Lift Scholars if I am not a Florida resident? Yes, the program covers out of state costs.
I earned my AA through dual enrollment in HS, am I still eligible for the funds? Yes, you can complete one of the following pathways: AS, a TC, or an AST program.
I've enrolled in classes, and I am eligible for Lift Scholars, but it’s not showing on my record? Please ensure that you have completed the eligibility requirements such as completing your yearly FAFSA, submitting final high school transcripts, and establishing Florida residency.
Does the Lift Scholars Program cover late registration fees? Yes, it does.
Does the Lift Scholars Program cover third and fourth attempts? Yes, provided college approval.
Which Valencia programs are part of the Lift Scholars Program?

The programs that are covered by Lift Scholars are:
Associate’s in Arts Degrees, Associate’s in Science Degrees, Technical Certificates, or Accelerated Skills Training.

Please visit the following links to learn more.
Will my textbooks be covered by Lift Scholars funds? No, Lift Scholars does not cover textbooks.
If I finish my Associate’s degree before the 5 years are up, can I continue to use Lift Scholars funds to cover my Bachelor’s degree? No, the program covers the completion of one program (AA/AS/ TC/ AST) only.
I'm not a U.S. citizen – or I'm an undocumented or DACA student. Am I eligible?

Yes, we’d love to have you in the program. Please contact Financial Aid services to discuss your options.
Do I still get financial aid?

Yes, you will have to submit your FAFSA form to Valencia EVERY YEAR to maintain eligibility. This is a last dollar program, so all other aid and scholarships will pay out first, then Lift Scholars will cover the remaining amount.
I submitted the FAFSA but I am not seeing the Lift Scholars funds on my account. Why?

Please ensure that you have sent the FAFSA to Valencia College using school code 006750, and that there are no pending items (flags, corrections, etc.). You can see and make these changes on the FAFSA website.
Am I eligible for Lift Scholars if I have Florida Prepaid?

Yes, you will have to defer your Florida prepaid by filling out a form every semester by the deadline. 
If I qualify for a Pell grant, do I still qualify for the Lift Scholars program?

Yes, you do qualify. Pell does not affect your ability to participate in Lift Scholars. Here's what will happen if you qualify for a Pell Grant or other scholarships or grants: We will find out if there's a balance between your award amount and your full tuition and fees. The Lift Scholars program will cover any remaining tuition and fees not covered by the Pell grant or other scholarships.
Am I still eligible for the Lift Scholars program if I have Bright Futures?

Yes. Here's what will happen if you have Bright Futures or other scholarships or grants: We will find out if there's a balance between your award amount and your full tuition and fees. The Lift Scholars program will cover any remaining tuition and fees once all other grants and scholarships are applied to your account.

Can I defer my Pell grant and use it for other semesters so Lift Scholars can pay for all my tuition?

No, Lift Scholars is a last dollar program, meaning all other aid will pay out first, then Lift Scholars will cover the remaining cost.
I need help completing the FAFSA and the application. Where do I go?

 

There will be workshops at various Valencia College campuses over the next few months to help you complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the application for admission. Be on the lookout for more information. You can also check out these online resources to help you complete the FAFSA. We are also standing by, ready to help you with questions. Visit our office on West Campus, SSB 104 from Monday through Friday, 9am -4 pm, or email collegeaccess@valenciacollege.edu.
Can I change my major?

Within the first year (3 semesters), yes. Afterwards, no.
Which classes can I take for them to count towards the 12 credit hours?

Any class that is in compliance with your chosen major will count towards the 12-credit yearly requirement.
What classes should I take?

Depends on your major! Meet with a Student Success Coach and complete an academic plan to ensure that the classes you are taking align with your major/program.
Can I withdraw from a class?

If it puts you at risk for falling under a 2.0 GPA for four consecutive semesters or does not allow you to complete 12 credits per academic year, then withdrawing from that class would put you at risk for losing eligibility. Speak with your student success coach to ensure that you will not be placed on academic probation (under 67% completion).
What are the conditions for an appeal submission?

You can submit an appeal once, if and only if the reason you were removed from the program was because you did not complete 12 credit hours within the first three semesters. You must complete the form and meet with a student success coach to create a term-by-term plan. The Lift Scholars team will then review your appeal, and if approved, you’ll be reinstated into the cohort.

Need more details or information, reach us at 407-582-1507 or collegeaccess@valenciacollege.edu.

Orange County Public Schools
Valencia College