Transient Study

Transient Study

Transient study refers to any approved enrollment option in which some or all of your classes are at another institution.

If you plan to take courses at another institution as a transient student, you may be eligible to receive federal or state financial aid (including Florida Bright Futures, Pell Grant, FSEOG, FSAG, and Direct Loans) based on your individual eligibility and the availability of funds.

To be considered for aid while taking transient coursework:

  • Submit a transient student application through FloridaShines.org or complete a consortium agreement for private or out-of-state studies.
  • Ensure the courses you are taking apply to your degree program at your home institution.
  • Complete all required financial aid documentation and maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP).
  • Allow time for processing — aid cannot be awarded until the host school confirms enrollment.

If you receive financial aid, it will be disbursed by your home institution and may be adjusted depending on enrollment level and program requirements.

Note: You are responsible for meeting all registration and fee payment deadlines upfront at the host school. The host school is not required to offer you a tuition deferment.

Financial Aid for Transient Study:

  • Financial aid will not pay until after your classes begin at the host school and the electronic verification of enrollment is received.
  • Financial aid pays through your USF student account according to USF's payment schedule.
  • Sign up for e-Deposit in Student Self-Service to easily access your funds once your enrollment is verified.
  • Courses that are not part of your degree program may not be eligible for funding. Financial aid eligibility is assessed once final transcripts are received, and adjustments may be made if approved courses are not completed, dropped, or if you enroll in fewer credit hours than initially approved.
  • Future financial aid may be held pending the receipt and review of transcripts. If transcripts are not received or if enrollment and course outcomes cannot be verified, adjustments to aid for the current term may be required.
  • You must meet transient study requirements.

Disclaimer: Once your classes at the host school have ended, make sure your official transcripts are sent to the USF Office of Undergraduate Admissions before the next term starts, or your financial aid will be held. If transcripts are not provided and we are unable to verify enrollment, adjustments to aid for the current term may be necessary, including potential R2T4 (Return of Title IV) calculations which may result in a reduction or cancellation of aid for the term.

For questions or assistance, contact the Financial Aid Office before registering for transient coursework.