Florida Scholarships for Children and Spouses of Deceased or Disabled Veterans (CSDDV)

Florida’s CSDDV helps dependent children and unremarried spouses of veterans who meet statutory death or disability categories pursue postsecondary education. The state fact sheet reviewed includes 2027–28 dates and requires the Florida Financial Aid Application (FFAA). It is not automatic for every military family: the Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs certifies the applicable status.

For children, the fact sheet sets an age range of 16 to 22 and requires initial eligibility before age 23. Dependency and the parent’s service and residency history must be certified. Spouse rules depend on the veteran category; read the complete PDF and do not assume that any diagnosis or discharge qualifies.

For initial 2027–28 priority, the FFAA must be complete and error-free by April 1, 2027; the form became available October 1, 2026. Veteran-related questions must use the veteran’s information so certification can take place. After April, late applications may be considered only if funds remain, so the state does not guarantee funding for late submissions.

Keep a copy of the FFAA and the records used for veteran certification. The college financial-aid office can explain how the exemption appears on the bill and what happens if enrollment changes. Students previously funded should review reinstatement or restoration rules separately.

To compare this benefit with other options, ask financial aid for an estimate separating tuition, fees, housing, and excluded expenses. Confirm whether it renews annually, what GPA or course load it requires, and whom to contact if the student account does not show the payment. Keep award letters and receipts until the school confirms disbursement.

Official program information and application