I got in, now what?

Colleges and Universities A-Z University of Central Florida
1

<p>Okay, so I just got accepted at the University of Central Florida, and here are the details. I live in Florida where we have something called Bright Futures. I'm not sure if it's national or just state-restricted, but it pays for tuition. I've qualified for 100% of my tuition paid in full, but only for Fall/Spring semesters. I'm signed up for the Summer semester, because to graduate, I need to take two Summer semesters, so I thought, "why not take one now?" Also, my parents called the Florida Prepaid College Fund department and they said that they don't get any of the money back. So right now, I'm looking at paying for a dorm, meal plan, books, living expenses, groceries, new tech, and probably a lot more things that I haven't thought about. For a dorm alone, it's going to cost $915 for the Summer B session and then $2,250 for each of the Fall and Spring semesters (a.k.a. $4,500 for both). Also, I'm guessing a meal plan is somewhere around the $1,500 - $2,000 mark. I have to have the deposits for the enrollment fee and the dorm payments in ASAP, so I'm probably going to send that stuff in tomorrow. I'm just asking if anyone knows how to prioritize everything and how to keep a level head. I thought I was worried whether or not I'd get accepted, but the stress comes after you already have! I just want to know if anyone have some guidance or advice.</p>

<p>Oh yeah! My parents also want me to get a job while I go to school, and I don't have any qualms with that. I just want to know, from a college attendee, is it a wise decision? I would love the extra pocket cash and I do need money for the Fall and Spring dorms.</p>

<p>Thanks in advance!</p>

2

<p>First off, you don't get the money back from the FPP but you do get it refunded to you from the bright futures. UCF will first apply your FPP to your tuition, then it will use the bright futures toward fees and housing. If you have any left over, you will get a refund of that money in September and in January. My D at UF has 100% Bright Futures and FPP. Every semester she gets about $1500. deposited into her checking account (direct deposit from UF) that is "left over" for her use. She uses that money for food. Bright futures (100% only) also gives you about 300 dollars/semester for textbooks.</p>

3

<p>I was thinking Bright Futures will not apply to summer sessions, but that Prepaid Tuition can be used anytime. Is that right?</p>

4

<p>Yes. ^^ FPP can be used until you use up your 120 credit hours.</p>

5

<p>Also, </p>

<p>If you are coming in with any AP credits, at least 9-12 hours worth (not sure which), this will qualify for your summer hours. My s came in with a ton of AP credit so he doesn't have to take any summer hours at all if he doesn't want to. You might check that, too.</p>

<p>zebes</p>

6

<p>Thanks guys! I talked to UCF attendants and my parents, and they talked to UCF employees and we found out that my FPP will pay for my summer sessions. The only thing I have to do now is pay for my room and board, books, living expenses, and other stuff. Thanks a bunch guys!</p>