Are you being challenged by the economic downturn?
Are you asking the question, "Should I Stop?" or "Should I Drop?"

Step 1 - Dean of Students

If your situation involves an immediate financial need or you need help with other resources, please contact the Dean of Students for additional guidance, analysis of need and recommendation for resolution.

The Dean of Students serves as a confidential, neutral third party providing information, advice, intervention and referrals to all USF Polytechnic students.

Step 2 - Financial Aid

If you have a financial need and you are currently on financial aid or have not yet completed the FAFSA, please follow the steps below.

• If you haven't done so already, please complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) so the Financial Aid Office can determine what aid programs you might qualify for. This can be done electronically at www.fafsa.ed.gov. Depending on your situation, your parents may need to assist you.
• If you have filed FAFSA, visit with an advisor in the Financial Aid Office to see if there are other aid programs available. Their office in located in LTB Student Services suite.

Step 3 - Counseling Center

The Counseling Center serves as an additional referral to further discuss your economic options as well as connect you with community agencies who may be able to assist with your financial situation. The Counseling Center is located in LMD and can be contacted at 863.667.7001.

Additional Services

Commuter Services - Commuter Services is a program of the Florida Department of Transportation, serving travelers who live or work in the 12-county region of Southwest Florida. Alternative travel options like carpooling, vanpooling, and other options are becoming more attractive every day, as commuters like you look for ways to cut costs and save time. USF Polytechnic is an official partner with Commuter Services to offer you cheaper alternatives for your travel.

Through an online ridematch database, you can connect with other commuters to share rides and be eligible for the Emergency Ride Home program. To learn more, visit their website.

Financial Literacy Workshops - With these hard economic times, it is important to educate yourself about your finances. The Office of Student Affairs is coordinating several free financial literacy workshops such as the importance of credit, understanding credit scoring, how to establish and maintain good credit, restoring credit and managing money. For more information about these workshops, contact the Dean of Students.