The Jacksonville Commitment FAQs


  • Who is eligible for a Jacksonville Commitment Scholarship?
    In order to be a candidate for a Jacksonville Commitment Scholarship, students must be eligible for the Free or Reduced lunch program, graduate from any Duval County public high school with a standard high school diploma, be admitted to one of the four JC postsecondary partner schools, be a Florida resident for tuition purposes, and be eligible for a Pell grant. 
  • What schools are included in the “postsecondary partner schools”?
    Edward Waters College (EWC), Florida State College at Jacksonville (FSCJ), Jacksonville University (JU), and the University of North Florida (UNF) are the four postsecondary Commitment partners.
  • What does a Scholarship Portfolio include?
    A complete portfolio includes a Scholarship application, an essay and proof of Pell grant eligibility (FAFSA confirmation page).
  • Is there an online form?
    UNF applicants will have the option to submit an online scholarship application. Students who plan to apply to one of the other partner schools can print this application form: The Jacksonville Commitment Application.
  • Will every student on Free or Reduced Lunch receive a full scholarship to one of the four postsecondary partner schools?
    No. Priority will be given to students who complete The Jacksonville Commitment Scholarship portfolio requirements by February 14 each year, submit a Summer FAFSA confirmation page, and are active participants in a college access program with a Commitment College Advisor or a comparable school, church or community based program. The number and value of scholarships at each school are contingent upon available funds so early submission is key.
  • Is there a waiting list?
    There is no waiting list for the Jacksonville Commitment.
  • How are students and parents being notified of The Jacksonville Commitment?
    Students and parents at the Phase I schools are being notified through the Jacksonville Commitment College Advisors housed in the schools. Many others are responding to marketing and are calling The Jacksonville Commitment Office directly. We will also reach students through the efforts of other College Access Programs (ex. GEAR Up, Talent Search, Take Stock in Children, First Baptist Church of Mandarin Academic Mentoring, etc.). Any assistance you can provide in sharing this information with potentially eligible students is greatly appreciated.
  • How do other scholarships and financial aid affect The Jacksonville Commitment Scholarship?
    All scholarships and financial aid awarded to a student will be used to cover the cost of attendance at all postsecondary partner colleges. The Jacksonville Commitment award amounts may vary to ensure students have not surpassed their Financial Aid budget for the year. If you are offered a scholarship, please see the financial aid advisor at your school for specific information.
  • Are international students eligible for these awards?
    If a student is eligible for in-state tuition as determined by Florida’s residency for tuition purposes guidelines, then they will also be eligible for The Jacksonville Commitment Scholarship assuming that all of the other requirements have been met.
  • When are the Scholarship Portfolios due?
    The priority deadline is February 14 each year. Send to The Jacksonville Commitment Office (1 UNF Drive, Hicks Hall, Jacksonville, Florida 32224).
  • How do FSCJ graduates apply for the Transfer Scholarship?
    The number and value of transfer scholarships at each school are contingent upon available funds. Students planning to transfer to another partner school are encouraged to complete an Intent Form and forward to The Jacksonville Commitment office. Transfer scholarships are not guaranteed and funds do not transfer between institutions. Again, early submission is key.