The pursuit of higher education often comes with financial challenges, but scholarships can be a game-changer for aspiring students. One such remarkable scholarship making waves is the Benacquisto Scholarship at the University of Florida (UF). In this comprehensive guide, we will eligibility criteria, application process, and much more to provide you with a thorough understanding of this prestigious scholarship opportunity.
Benacquisto Scholarship UF
The Benacquisto Scholarship, named after its benefactors Phil and Orianne Loiacono Benacquisto, was established with the primary objective of fostering academic excellence. The Benacquisto Scholarship Program is a merit scholarship for high school graduates who receive recognition as a National Merit Scholar. UF is a participant in the Benacquisto Scholarship program.
Eligible scholars will receive an award equal to the institutional cost of attendance for an in-state student minus the sum of Bright Futures and the National Merit award. Out-of-state students will receive an award equal to the in-state cost of attendance minus their National Merit award. These students are exempt from paying out-of-state tuition and fees. An initial application is not required.
Eligibility Requirements
A STUDENT WHO IS A FLORIDA RESIDENT SEEKING INITIAL FUNDING MUST:
- Earn a standard Florida high school diploma or its equivalency (unless the student completes a home education program or earns a high school diploma from a non-Florida high school while living with a parent who is on military or public service assignment away from Florida).
- Be a National Merit Scholar.
- Enroll at an eligible Florida postsecondary institution during the Fall academic term following high school graduation.
A STUDENT WHO IS A NON-FLORIDA RESIDENT SEEKING INITIAL FUNDING MUST:
- Earn a high school diploma comparable to a standard Florida high school diploma or its equivalency (or completes a home education program).
- Be a National Merit Scholar.
- Enroll at an eligible Florida postsecondary institution during the Fall academic term following high school graduation.
- Physically reside in Florida on or near the institution’s campus where enrolled.
A NATIONAL MERIT FINALIST BECOMES A SCHOLAR BY RECEIVING:
- A National Merit $2500 Scholarship,
- A Corporate-sponsored Merit Scholarship, or
- A College-sponsored Merit Scholarship
- quarter equivalency) in a baccalaureate degree program.
Exceptions to Requirements
Students with less than 12 credit hours required for graduation, may receive the Benacquisto Scholarship by submitting a memo on letterhead from an academic advisor indicating:
- Student’s name and UCFID
- Semester graduation is expected
Additional information on the Benacquisto Scholarship can be found on the State of Florida’s Office for Student Financial Assistance (OSFA) website http://www.floridastudentfinancialaid.org/http://www.floridastudentfinancialaid.org/ or by contacting the Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships at (352) 392-2244.
Conclusion
The Benacquisto Scholarship at the University of Florida is not merely a financial aid program; it’s a transformative force that propels deserving students towards a future of academic success. Aspiring scholars are encouraged to embark on this journey, armed with the knowledge and insights provided in this guide.
FAQ
1. How does my college or university know that I am eligible for the scholarship?
The college or university will verify your status against a roster from the National Merit Scholarship
Corporation. You should retain a copy of the official letter or certificate received from the National
Merit Scholarship Corporation denoting your status as a ‘Finalist’ and a copy of the scholarship
award letter in case questions arise regarding your status.
2. When will I receive my funding?
Your institution will disburse funding to you after the drop/add period. Contact your institution’s
Financial Aid office for information concerning specific disbursement dates.
3. I am eligible for the Benacquisto Scholarship, but do not want to start my postsecondary career in the Fall. Can I delay accepting the initial scholarship award?
No. Eligible students must begin enrollment and accept funding at an eligible postsecondary
institution no later than the fall term following high school graduation to receive the scholarship
award.
4. I am non-Florida resident. Can I still qualify for my award if I am living out of state?
No. Out-of-state students can no longer qualify to receive an initial Benacquisto Scholarship award.
5. How do I renew my scholarship?
To renew, a student must earn a minimum 3.0 cumulative grade point average (GPA) and earn all
credit hours enrolled at the end of the drop/add period each term. The scholarship renews
automatically at the end of the second semester, third quarter, or the equivalent, at the end of the
academic year, provided the student meets the renewal requirements.
