Financial Aid
Finance Help and Best Practices
College life is exciting, but it also comes with new responsibilities, especially when it comes to money. At the College of Central Florida, we want to help you succeed both on campus and in life. This guide covers resources you can find at CF and in the community, and every day money tips to help you stay financially healthy.
CF Support Resources
Patriot Pantry
The Patriot Pantry offers free food to CF students who need extra support. This confidential service ensures you have what you need to help you stay focused on your education. To use the pantry, visit the Stearns Learning Resource Center in Building 3 on the Ocala Campus. The pantry is open whenever Building 3 is open. Ask a staff member at the front desk to unlock the pantry, take a bag located in the pantry and fill it with the items you need.
Clothes Closet
The CF Clothes Closet provides professional and casual clothing, shoes, children toys and personal care items at no cost to students. You can visit the Clothes Closet in Building 2 on the Ocala Campus. To use the Clothes Closet, please make an appointment with Danielle Bryan, bryand@cf.edu.
Emergency Funds
If unexpected expenses come up, CF may be able to help with emergency financial assistance. It is not guaranteed that there are funds available, but please fill out the Patriot Fund form, located on the left-hand side under the Finances tab on the MyCF student portal, and someone from the Student Services office will respond as soon as possible. If you have questions or concerns, please reach out to Kathy Viator.
Finances 101
Grace Periods
A grace period is the extra time you may have before a payment is due. Knowing where you have wiggle room and where you don’t can help you avoid late fees and stress.
Utilities: Many utility companies offer a short grace period of around 5–10 days after the due date before late fees apply. If you know you can’t pay on time, call the company and let them know about your situation. Many will offer payment extensions or budget billing plans.
Credit Cards: Credit card companies typically offer a 21-day grace period between the end of your billing cycle and your payment due date. Check with your credit card company to make sure you know when payments are due.
Rent: Rent usually has little to no grace period. Payment is usually due on the first of the month. Some landlords may allow a 3–5 day grace period, but late fees can add up quickly.
Know Your Community Resources
Citrus, Levy and Marion Counties have many different resources available across different types of aid. To view all the resources in our communities, log into findhelp.org, enter your zipcode and search through the available options.