Florida Will Raise Scholarship Test Score Requirements
Graduating students in 2028 must reach higher benchmarks to qualify for state-funded tuition assistance programs.
Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in Scholarships
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The Florida Department of Education is increasing minimum test score requirements for the Bright Futures Scholarship program for students graduating in 2028. These changes impact both the Florida Academic Scholarship and the Florida Medallion Scholarship.
Why it matters
Adjusting minimum thresholds for standardized tests ensures that state-funded aid remains aligned with updated educational standards for college-bound students. These scholarships are a vital source of tuition coverage for residents pursuing higher education across the state.
The Florida Academic Scholarship, which covers 100% of tuition, now requires a 1350 SAT score, a 20-point increase. The Florida Medallion Scholarship, covering 75% of tuition, requires a 1200 SAT score, marking a 10-point increase.
The players
Florida Department of Education
This state agency oversees public education and establishes the eligibility criteria for the Bright Futures Scholarship program.
Florida Lottery
This state organization manages gambling operations and allocates proceeds to fund various public education initiatives including student scholarships.
The details
Students must now achieve a score of 96 on the Classic Learning Test for the Academic Scholarship and 25 for the Medallion tier. Additionally, the ACT minimum for the Medallion Scholarship has been set at 83, with the Florida Lottery having historically contributed over $9.3 billion to support the program.
Timeline
2028: Graduating students must meet the new score requirements.
Culture Shift
This policy change reflects a broader national trend of states tightening eligibility criteria for merit-based financial aid programs to reflect shifting academic benchmarks. It marks a departure from static requirements, instead aligning state funding with evolving standardized testing standards.
High school students planning for university will need to adjust their test preparation strategies to meet these higher minimum scores before graduation in 2028. Families should review these updated benchmarks early to ensure they remain eligible for the 75% or 100% tuition coverage provided by the state.
The takeaway
Students should focus on early diagnostic testing to determine if they are on track to meet these revised state thresholds. Consistent preparation well before the 2028 deadline is the most reliable way to secure consistent funding for tuition costs.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest developments regarding Scholarships available to students.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WLRN.
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