HOMELESS VERIFICATION PROCESS

To qualify for a tuition exemption due to homelessness, a student must meet the criteria outlined in Florida Statute 1009.25 (Fee Exemptions).

For the purposes of this waiver, homelessness is defined as one or more of the following:

  • Lacking a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence; or
  • Having a primary nighttime residence in a public or private shelter designed to provide temporary accommodation, including shelters intended for individuals awaiting institutional placement; or
  • Residing in a public or private place not designed for, or ordinarily used as, a regular sleeping accommodation for human beings.

Eligibility Requirements for Homeless Verification Waiver

  • A valid FAFSA must be on file with Florida Atlantic University, and the student must be classified as independent for financial aid purposes
  • The student must be enrolled as a degree-seeking student
  • The student must meet Florida residency requirements

What to Expect After Submitting Your Application

Once the application is submitted:

  • The student will be contacted by a representative from the Case Management Team within the Dean of Students Office to schedule an intake meeting, which may be conducted in person or by phone
  • The assigned case manager will gather information regarding the student’s current living situation
  • The case manager will provide ongoing updates to the student regarding the status of the application

Required Documentation

Students are required to submit the following:

  • Verification of homelessness from a third-party agency providing homeless services to the student
    • Additional legal documentation (e.g., police reports or eviction notices) may also be accepted
  • A letter of explanation written by the student describing their housing circumstances, including both prior and current living situations

Homeless Youth Under the McKinney-Vento Act

Tuition and fee exemptions may be available to students who have received official documentation under the McKinney-Vento Act. This documentation allows the University to consider the student eligible for the waiver unless conflicting information is later received.

  • Students may upload their McKinney-Vento Act letter as part of the Homeless Verification application process
     

Note: All submitted documentation will be retained as part of the student’s official University record. Documentation must be provided on official letterhead and include appropriate contact information, as well as the dates during which services were provided.

Homeless Verification Liaison contact information: Samieca Morgan, Assistant Dean of Students & Case Manager 561-297-3542samiecamorgan@fau.edu