Jun

2025

Alaska First-Time Home Buying Assistance Programs & Grants for 2025

By SoFi | mortgage | Comments Off

Alaska First-Time Home-Buying Assistance Programs & Grants

With its breathtaking natural beauty, clean air, and miles and miles of wilderness, Alaska, known as the Last Frontier, is a nature lover’s paradise. And it’s a good place to be looking for a home: As of April 2025, home prices in Alaska were up 3.7% from the year prior. But Alaska’s median home selling price of $385,700 still significantly beats the national median home sale price of $438,357, according to Redfin data.

As a first-time homebuyer in Alaska, you may qualify for a low-interest mortgage or help with the down payment. Here’s what you need to know.

Who Is Considered a First-Time Homebuyer in Alaska?

For a number of the state’s home mortgage loan programs, you’re considered a first-time buyer in Alaska if you haven’t owned a home in the last three years. You may also qualify if you meet U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) requirements, such as being a single parent or a displaced homemaker who has only owned a home with a spouse. Looking for the most budget-friendly spot to settle in this vast state? Check out a list of the best affordable places in Alaska.

2 Alaska Programs for First-Time Homebuyers

Offerings by the Alaska Housing Finance Corporation can give first-time homebuyers access to lower-interest-rate mortgages, or assistance with down payments and closing costs. Start here if you’re looking for different types of mortgage loans with the best interest rates in Alaska.

First Home Limited Loans
First Home Loans

1. First Home Limited Loans

This program offers lower-interest-rate mortgages to first-time homebuyers. To qualify, you must meet income and purchase price limits and have not owned a home in the past three years, unless the property you plan to buy is within a targeted area or you are a qualified veteran.

• Targeted areas are HUD designated census tracts and have higher income and acquisition cost limits.

• Eligible properties include single-family homes, condominiums, duplexes, and certain manufactured homes.

• A duplex must be five or more years old and occupied for at least the last five years as a multi-family residence.

• Borrowers must read the tax-exempt booklet.

2. First Home Loans

First Home offers mortgages with reduced interest rates to eligible borrowers, but unlike the First Home Limited program, it does not have income or purchase price limits. To qualify, you must not have not owned a primary residence in the past three years.

• Eligible properties include owner-occupied single-family residences, condominiums, duplexes, and certain manufactured homes.

• At least one unit in a duplex must be the borrower’s principal residence.

Both of these AHFC programs offer multiple loan options providing lower interest rates. These include the:

• Affordable Housing Enhanced Loan

• Energy Efficiency Interest Rate Reduction

• Interest Rate Reduction for Low-Income Borrowers

• Energy Efficiency Interest Rate Reduction

• State Veterans’ Preference

You must meet certain income limits and participate in a homebuyer education course. To apply, contact AHFC-approved lender.

How to Apply to Alaska Programs for First-Time Homebuyers

If you’re a first-time home buyer in Alaska and you qualify for one of these programs, reach out to a lender who participates in that program to start your application.

Get matched with a local
real estate agent and earn up to
$9,500^‡ cash back when you close.

Pair up with a local real estate agent through HomeStory and unlock up to
$9,500 cash back at closing.^‡ Average cash back received is $1,700.

Connect with an agent

Recommended: First-Time Homebuyer Guide

Federal Programs for First-Time Homebuyers

A number of federal government programs exist for people with low credit scores or limited down payment funds. Although they are sometimes for repeat homeowners, these national programs can be very helpful for people who are buying a first home or who haven’t owned a home in several years.

The mortgages are generally for single-family homes, two- to four-unit properties that will be owner occupied, approved condos, townhomes, planned unit developments, and some manufactured homes.

Federal Housing Administration (FHA) Loans

The FHA, a part of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), insures mortgages for borrowers with lower credit scores. Homebuyers choose from a list of approved lenders participating in the FHA loan program. Loans offer competitive interest rates and require down payments of 3.5% of the purchase price. Borrowers typically need FICO® credit scores of 580 and up. A buyer with a score as low as 500 must put down 10% or more.

FHA loan limits in 2025 range from $524,225 for single units to $1,008,300 for four-unit properties, with higher limits in high-cost areas.

In addition to examining your credit score, lenders will look at your debt-to-income ratio (DTI, your monthly debt payments compared with your monthly gross income). FHA loans allow a DTI ratio of up to 50% in some cases, vs. a typical 45% maximum for a conventional loan.

Gift money for the down payment is allowed from certain donors and will be documented in a gift letter for the mortgage.

FHA loans always require mortgage insurance premiums (MIP): This includes a fee of 1.75% of the base loan amount, which can be rolled into the loan, upfront. Borrowers also carry annual premiums for the life of the loan. As of 2025, monthly MIP for new homebuyers is 0.15% to 0.75%. A down payment of at least 10% allows the removal of mortgage insurance after 11 years. For a $300,000 mortgage balance, upfront MIP would be around $5,250 and monthly MIP, at a rate of 0.55%, would be about $137.

To learn more about these loans, including FHA loans for refinancing and rehabbing properties, read up on FHA requirements, loan limits, and rates.

Freddie Mac Home Possible Mortgages

Low- and very low-income borrowers may make just a 3% down payment on a HomePossible® mortgage. These loans allow various sources for down payments, including co-borrowers, family gifts, employer assistance, secondary financing, and sweat equity.

The Home Possible mortgage is for buyers who have a credit score of at least 660. Once you pay 20% of your loan, the Home Possible mortgage insurance will be canceled, which will lower your mortgage payments.

Fannie Mae HomeReady Mortgages

Fannie Mae, or formally, the Federal National Mortgage Association, is a publicly traded government-sponsored enterprise that dates back to the Great Depression.

Fannie Mae HomeReady^® Mortgages allow down payments as low as 3% for low-income borrowers. Applicants generally need a credit score of at least 620; pricing may be better for credit scores of 680 and above. Like the Freddie Mac program, HomeReady loans allow flexibility for down payment financing, such as gifts and grants.

For income limits, a comparison to an FHA loan, and other information, go to this Fannie Mae site .

Fannie Mae Standard 97 LTV Loan

The conventional 97 LTV loan is for first-time homebuyers of any income level who have a credit score of at least 620 and meet debt-to-income criteria. The 97% loan-to-value mortgage requires 3% down. Borrowers can get down payment and closing cost assistance from third-party sources.

Unlike an FHA loan, the 97 LTV loan has no upfront mortgage insurance fee and does have cancellable mortgage insurance. The loan is for just one-unit single-family homes, co-ops, condos, and planned unit developments.

Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Loans

Eligible active-duty members of the military, veterans, reservists, and surviving spouses may apply for loans backed by the Department of Veterans Affairs. These loans designed for those who serve our country can be used to buy, build, or improve homes, have lower interest rates than most other mortgages and don’t require a down payment. Most borrowers pay a one-time funding fee that can be rolled into the mortgage.

Another advantage of VA loans is that they do not require PMI for borrowers who make a down payment of less than 20%. And they have more flexible credit score requirements. In some cases, even those who have previously been in foreclosure or bankruptcy can qualify.

Borrowers applying for a VA loan will need a Certificate of Eligibility from the VA so make sure to review a guide to qualifying for a VA loan as a first step in the process.

Native American Veteran Direct Loans (NADLs)

Eligible Native American veterans and their spouses may use these no-down-payment loans to buy, improve, or build a home on federal trust land. Unlike VA loans listed above, the Department of Veterans Affairs is the mortgage lender on NADLs. The VA requires no mortgage insurance, but it does charge a funding fee.

US Department of Agriculture (USDA) Loans

No down payment is required on these loans to moderate-income borrowers that are guaranteed by the USDA in specified rural areas. Borrowers pay an upfront guarantee fee and an annual fee that serves as mortgage insurance.

The USDA also directly issues loans to low- and very low-income people. For loan basics and income and property eligibility, head to this USDA website .

HUD Good Neighbor Next Door Program

This program helps police officers, firefighters, emergency medical technicians, and teachers qualify for mortgages in the areas they serve. Borrowers can receive 50% off a home in what HUD calls a “revitalization area.” They must live in the home for at least three years.

For more information, visit the HUD program page.

First-Time Homebuyer Stats for 2025

• Median home sale price in Alaska: $385,600

• 3% down payment: $11,568

• 20% down payment: $77,120

• Percentage of buyers nationwide who are first-time buyers: 24%

• Median age of first-time homebuyers: 38

• Median down payment for first-time homebuyer: 9%

• Average credit score in Alaska (vs. average U.S. score of 714): 709

Recommended: Mortgage Prequalification vs. Preapproval

Financing Tips for First-Time Homebuyers

In addition to federal and state government-sponsored lending programs for the first time homebuyer in Alaska, you might want to bone up on mortgage basics like how to choose mortgage term loans and how to lower your mortgage payment. These tips may help.

• Traditional IRA withdrawals. The IRS allows qualifying first-time homebuyers a one-time, penalty-free withdrawal of up to $10,000 from their IRA if the money is used to buy, build, or rebuild a home. A first-time homebuyer, for the purposes of IRA withdrawals, is someone who has not owned a principal residence in the last two years. You will still owe income tax on the IRA withdrawal. If you’re married and your spouse has an IRA, they may also make a penalty-free withdrawal of $10,000 to purchase a home. The downside, of course, is that large withdrawals may jeopardize your retirement savings.

• Roth IRA withdrawals. Because Roth IRA contributions are made with after-tax money, the IRS allows tax- and penalty-free withdrawals of contributions for any reason as long as you’ve held the account for five years. You may also withdraw up to $10,000 in earnings from your Roth IRA without paying taxes or penalties if you are a qualifying first-time homebuyer and you have had the account for five years. With accounts held for less than five years, homebuyers will pay income tax on earnings withdrawn.

• 401(k) loans. If your employer allows borrowing from the 401(k) plan that it sponsors, you may consider taking a loan against the 401(k) account to help finance your home purchase. With most plans, you can borrow up to 50% of your 401(k) balance, up to $50,000, within a 12-month period without incurring taxes or penalties. You pay interest on the loan, which is paid into your 401(k) account. You usually have to pay back the loan within five years, but if you’re using the money to buy a house, you may have up to 15 years to repay.

• State and local down payment assistance programs. Usually offered at the regional or county level, these programs provide flexible second mortgages for first-time buyers looking into how to afford a down payment.

• The mortgage credit certificate program. First-time homeowners and those who buy in targeted areas can claim a portion of their mortgage interest as a tax credit, up to $2,000. Any additional interest paid can still be used as an itemized deduction. To qualify for the credit, you must be a first-time homebuyer, live in the home, and meet income and purchase price requirements, which vary by state. If you refinance, the credit disappears, and if you sell the house before nine years, you may have to pay some of the tax credit back. There are fees associated with applying for and receiving the mortgage credit certificate that vary by state. Often the savings from the lifetime of the credit can outweigh these fees.

• Your employer. Your employer may offer access to lower-cost lenders and real estate agents in your area, as well as home-buying education courses./p>

• Your lender. Always ask your lender about any first-time homebuyer grant or down payment assistance programs available from government, nonprofit, and community organizations in your area.

Recommended: Use this home affordability calculator to see how much home you can afford to buy.

The Takeaway

There is plenty of opportunity for qualified first-time homebuyers in Alaska. The state offers programs that can help with the mortgage and down payment. Plus there are federal and conventional loans available that can assist you in your quest to purchase a home.

Looking for an affordable option for a home mortgage loan? SoFi can help: We offer low down payments (as little as 3% - 5%*) with our competitive and flexible home mortgage loans. Plus, applying is extra convenient: It's online, with access to one-on-one help.

SoFi Mortgages: simple, smart, and so affordable.

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FAQ

Should I take first-time homebuyer classes?

First-time homebuyer classes are required for some government-sponsored loan programs. And for everyone else, this experience is a great way to get acquainted with the home-buying process before you dive into your search in earnest.

Do first-time homebuyers with bad credit qualify for homeownership assistance?

Yes, often they do. Many government and nonprofit homeowner assistance programs are available to people who don’t have the highest credit scores. And often, interest rates and other loan pricing are competitive with those of loans available to borrowers with higher credit scores. That said, almost any lending program has credit qualifications. That’s why it’s important to take all possible steps to improve your credit standing before you go house hunting.

Is there a first-time homebuyer tax credit in Alaska?

No there isn’t, although the state does offer assistance for first-time homebuyers through several AHFC programs. Both offer lower interest rates and potential help with down payments. A federal first-time homebuyer tax credit, like one for $15,000 proposed by former President Joe Biden in the 118th Congress of 2023-2024, has not been enacted.

Is there a first-time veteran homebuyer assistance program in Alaska?

First-time veteran homebuyers can get help through the AHFC’s Veterans Mortgage Program, including a 1% interest rate deduction on the first $50,000 of the loan. Also, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers no-down-payment VA loans with no monthly MIP, and interest rates that are often lower than those on conventional loans.

What credit score do I need for first-time homebuyer assistance in Alaska?

Credit score requirements vary, depending on the homebuyer assistance program. For example, if you have a credit score of 580 or higher, you may qualify for a lower interest rate on an FHA loan.

What is the average age of first-time homebuyers in Alaska?

The average age of a first-time homebuyer has increased to 38, according to data from the National Association of Realtors®.

Photo credit: iStock/toddmedia

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*SoFi requires Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) for conforming home loans with a loan-to-value (LTV) ratio greater than 80%. As little as 3% down payments are for qualifying first-time homebuyers only. 5% minimum applies to other borrowers. Other loan types may require different fees or insurance (e.g., VA funding fee, FHA Mortgage Insurance Premiums, etc.). Loan requirements may vary depending on your down payment amount, and minimum down payment varies by loan type.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

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¹FHA loans are subject to unique terms and conditions established by FHA and SoFi. Ask your SoFi loan officer for details about eligibility, documentation, and other requirements. FHA loans require an Upfront Mortgage Insurance Premium (UFMIP), which may be financed or paid at closing, in addition to monthly Mortgage Insurance Premiums (MIP). Maximum loan amounts vary by county. The minimum FHA mortgage down payment is 3.5% for those who qualify financially for a primary purchase. SoFi is not affiliated with any government agency.

†Veterans, Service members, and members of the National Guard or Reserve may be eligible for a loan guaranteed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. VA loans are subject to unique terms and conditions established by VA and SoFi. Ask your SoFi loan officer for details about eligibility, documentation, and other requirements. VA loans typically require a one-time funding fee except as may be exempted by VA guidelines. The fee may be financed or paid at closing. The amount of the fee depends on the type of loan, the total amount of the loan, and, depending on loan type, prior use of VA eligibility and down payment amount. The VA funding fee is typically non-refundable. SoFi is not affiliated with any government agency.

‡Up to $9,500 cash back: HomeStory Rewards is offered by HomeStory Real Estate Services, a licensed real estate broker. HomeStory Real Estate Services is not affiliated with SoFi Bank, N.A. (SoFi). SoFi is not responsible for the program provided by HomeStory Real Estate Services. Obtaining a mortgage from SoFi is optional and not required to participate in the program offered by HomeStory Real Estate Services. The borrower may arrange for financing with any lender. Rebate amount based on home sale price, see table for details.

Qualifying for the reward requires using a real estate agent that participates in HomeStory’s broker to broker agreement to complete the real estate buy and/or sell transaction. You retain the right to negotiate buyer and or seller representation agreements. Upon successful close of the transaction, the Real Estate Agent pays a fee to HomeStory Real Estate Services. All Agents have been independently vetted by HomeStory to meet performance expectations required to participate in the program. If you are currently working with a REALTOR®, please disregard this notice. It is not our intention to solicit the offerings of other REALTORS®. A reward is not available where prohibited by state law, including Alaska, Iowa, Louisiana and Missouri. A reduced agent commission may be available for sellers in lieu of the reward in Mississippi, New Jersey, Oklahoma, and Oregon and should be discussed with the agent upon enrollment. No reward will be available for buyers in Mississippi, Oklahoma, and Oregon. A commission credit may be available for buyers in lieu of the reward in New Jersey and must be discussed with the agent upon enrollment and included in a Buyer Agency Agreement with Rebate Provision. Rewards in Kansas and Tennessee are required to be delivered by gift card.

HomeStory will issue the reward using the payment option you select and will be sent to the client enrolled in the program within 45 days of HomeStory Real Estate Services receipt of settlement statements and any other documentation reasonably required to calculate the applicable reward amount. Real estate agent fees and commissions still apply. Short sale transactions do not qualify for the reward. Depending on state regulations highlighted above, reward amount is based on sale price of the home purchased and/or sold and cannot exceed $9,500 per buy or sell transaction. Employer-sponsored relocations may preclude participation in the reward program offering. SoFi is not responsible for the reward.

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Jun

2025

University of California Irvine (UCI) Tuition and Fees

By Jenni Bojanin | Uncategorized | Comments Off

University of California Irvine (UCI) Tuition and Fees

Total Cost of Attendance

UC Irvine has several noteworthy programs, including computer science and the arts. In 2024-25, UC Irvine tuition and fees was $15,722 for in-state students and $49,922 for out-of-state students. The national averages for public four-year schools are $11,260 for in-state students and $29,150 for out-of-state students.

Costs for 2024-25

Student Type	In-State	Out-of-State
Tuition & Fees	$15,722	$49,922
Books & Supplies	$1,473	$1,473
Food & Housing	$18,991	$18,991
Other Expenses	$5,692	$5,692
Total Cost of Attendance	$41,878	$76,078

Financial Aid

In 2022-2023, 71% full-time students at University of California Irvine received some sort of financial aid, including student loans. More specifically:

• Grant or scholarship aid: 65% of students received this aid with an average award of $21,533.

• Federal grants: 35% of students received this aid with an average award of $6,091.

• Pell grants: 35% of students received this aid with an average award of $5,644.

• Other federal grants: 19% of students received this aid with an average award of $860.

• State/local: 54% of students received this aid with an average award of $11,446.

• Institutional: 56% of students received this aid with an average award of $10,164.

• Student financial aid: 25% of students received this aid with an average amount of $6,223.

• Federal student aid: 24% of students received this aid with an average amount of $4,573.

• Other student aid: 7% of students received this aid with an average amount of $6,828.

Generally, financial aid is monetary assistance awarded to students based on personal need and merit. Students who qualify for financial aid can use it to pay for college costs like tuition, books, and living expenses.

The federal government is the largest provider of student financial aid. However, aid can also be given by state governments, colleges and universities, private companies, and nonprofits. The different types include:

• Scholarships: Scholarships can be awarded by schools and other organizations based on students’ academic excellence, athletic achievement, community involvement, job experience, field of study, or financial need.

• Grants: Grants are generally based on financial need. These can come from federal, state, private, or nonprofit organizations.

• Work-study: Federal Work-Study provides qualifying students with part-time employment to earn money for expenses while in school.

• Federal student loans: Federal student loans are money borrowed directly from the U.S. Department of Education. They come with fixed interest rates that are typically lower than private loans.

Colleges, universities, and state agencies use the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) to determine financial aid eligibility. The FAFSA can be completed online, but note that state and federal and school deadlines may differ.

You can find other financial aid opportunities on databases such as:

• U.S. Department of Education – Search for grants from colleges and universities by state

• College Scholarship Service Profile (CSS) – A global college scholarship application used by select institutions to award financial aid

Private Student Loans

In 2022-2023, 7% of students at UCI received private student loans with an average amount of $6,828.

Private student loans are funded by private organizations such as banks, online lenders, credit unions, some schools, and state-based or -affiliated organizations. While federal student loans have interest rates that are regulated by Congress, private lenders follow a different set of regulations, so their qualifications and interest rates can vary widely.

What’s more, private loans have variable or fixed interest rates that may be higher than federal loan interest rates, which are always fixed. Private lenders may (but don’t always) require you to make payments on your loans while you are still in school, compared to federal student loans which you don’t have to start paying back until after you graduate, leave school, or change your enrollment status to less than half-time.

Private loans don’t have a specific application window and can be applied for on an as-needed basis. However, if you think you may need to take out a private loan, it’s a good idea to submit your FAFSA first to see what federal aid you may qualify for, as it generally may have better rates and terms.

If you’ve missed the FAFSA deadline or you’re struggling to pay for school throughout the year, private loans can potentially help you make your payments. Just keep in mind that you will need enough lead time for your loan to process and for your lender to send money to your school.

Recommended: Guide to Private Student Loans

Projected 4-Year-Degree Price

In 2024-25, UC Irvine tuition and fees for students in-state was $15,722. At this rate, four years of tuition and fees would equal $62,888 if no price increases occurred.

For out-of-state students, tuition and fees were $49,922. Four years at this rate would cost $199,688.

The good news: UCI has had only slight increases in both in-state and out-of-state tuition over the past few years.

Here’s some California Student Loan & Scholarship Information.

Undergraduate Tuition and Fees

Student Type	In-State	Out-of-State
Tuition & Fees	$15,722	$49,922
Books & Supplies	$1,473	$1,473
Food & Housing	$18,991	$18,991
Other Expenses	$5,692	$5,692
Total Cost of Attendance	$41,878	$76,078

UC Irvine tuition and fees, books and supplies, room and board, and miscellaneous expenses for the 2024-25 school year totaled $41,878 for in-state students and $76,078 for out-of-state students.

Graduate Tuition and Fees

Student Type	In-State	Out-of-State
Tuition & Fees	$14,827	$29,929

University of California, Irvine offers over 100 graduate programs. UC Irvine tuition for grad school is $12,762 (in-state) or $27,864 (out-of-state), plus fees totaling $2,065 for each. This is more than the average cost for one year of graduate school at a four-year public institution in the U.S., which is $10,320 per year. There are graduate loans available to help with these costs.

Cost per Credit Hour

Students can apply for part-time status each year, and if approved, may pay 50% of tuition. Tuition for part-time undergraduate students for 2024-25 is $2,191 per quarter (three quarters per year) for a total of $6,573 per academic year.
Graduate students who are approved for part-time status in 2024-25 pay $2,127 per quarter (three quarters total) for a total of $6,381 per year.

Campus Housing Expenses

Costs for 2024-25

Student Type	On-Campus	Off-Campus
Food & Housing	$18,991	$19,130
Other Expenses	$5,692	$7,236

Freshmen are not required to live on campus, though more than 14,000 students choose to do so. There are two, first-year residence halls for students to live in.

There are many options near campus for students who choose to live in apartments or houses, either on their own or with roommates.

The university has an off-campus housing website to help you explore your living options.

University of California Irvine Acceptance Rate

Fall 2023

Number of applications	121,101
Number accepted	31,486
Percentage Accepted	26%

Admission Requirements

Interested students can apply here. The deadline is December 2. Here’s what’s required when applying for UC Irvine:

Required:

• High school transcript and GPA

• College preparatory program

• Personal statement or essay

Students must have a 3.0 GPA (3.4 for nonCalifornia residents) or higher in required subjects with no grades below a “C.” UCI does not consider SAT or ACT scores during the admissions or scholarship process. Additional factors that may be considered are special talents, awards, and achievements; and special life circumstances that applicants have been able to rise above.

SAT and ACT Scores

University of California, Irvine does not use SAT or ACT scores for admission purposes.

Popular Majors at UCI

In 2023, 11,353 degrees were granted at UC Irvine. Here are some of the most popular majors.

1. Biology

UCI provides a strong foundation in architecture/systems, algorithms, data structures, and mathematical foundations and theories. In 2021, 8.5% of graduating undergraduates earned a computer science degree.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 766

2. Business/Managerial Economics

This degree provides an economics education from the perspective of business, while being guided by the rigorous logic of economics. Graduates are prepared for careers in finance, consulting, and strategic planning, or for advanced studies, leveraging courses in microeconomics, econometrics, and corporate finance.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 575

3. Research and Experimental Psychology

Students receive a foundation in psychology with an emphasis on research, studying how people function in a range of cultural, developmental, environmental, and social contexts. Students engage in empirical research, data analysis, and lab experiences, preparing for graduate studies or careers in research, clinical psychology, neuroscience, or related fields.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 566

4. Computer Science

A computer science degree at UC Irvine is offered through the Donald Bren School of Information and Computer Sciences. The curriculum includes core courses in programming, data structures, algorithms, computer architecture, and discrete mathematics, supplemented by electives in areas like artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and graphics.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 454

5. Psychology

In this program, students pursue a broad psychology degree and can use their education to work in social work, health services, human resources, marketing, and more.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 437

6. Public Health

UC Irvine’s Bachelor of Arts in Public Health offers interdisciplinary coursework in epidemiology, biostatistics, health policy, and community health. Students engage in experiential learning and research opportunities, preparing them for careers in health promotion, disease prevention, or policy analysis.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 392

7. Criminology

UC Irvine’s Bachelor of Arts in Criminology examines crime, justice systems, and social issues through interdisciplinary coursework in sociology, psychology, and law. Students engage in research and fieldwork, preparing for careers in criminal justice, policy, legal advocacy, or advanced graduate programs.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 367

8. Business Administration and Management

UCI is a top business school and provides undergraduates with a broad education. The social science element helps students study people, groups, organizations, and more along with financial, IT, and marketing issues.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 360

9. Economics

Students study a range of economic-related topics for a broad education that can serve them well in business, government, and law. Coursework also includes plenty of mathematical classes, and students analyze markets, policy, and data using quantitative methods.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 302

10. Education

UC Irvine’s Bachelor of Arts in Education Sciences, housed in the School of Education, explores learning theories, policy, and equity through interdisciplinary courses in psychology, sociology, and curriculum development. Students engage in research and fieldwork, preparing for careers in teaching, educational policy, administration, or advanced graduate and credential programs.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 272

UCI Graduation Rate

UCI graduation rate for students who started in the fall of 2017 are as follows:

• 4 years: 73%

• 6 years: 86%

Post-Graduation Median Earnings

The median annual salary for UCI graduates is $80,735. That’s higher than the national average of $68,680 for 2025.

Bottom Line

University of California, Irvine is a well-regarded institution that offers students top-ranked academic programs. The school’s tuition is above the national average, but UCI offers generous institutional aid to students who qualify. Students can also rely on federal and private student loans.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.

Cover up to 100% of school-certified costs including tuition, books, supplies, room and board, and transportation with a private student loan from SoFi.

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SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. We encourage you to evaluate all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs.
Terms and conditions apply. SOFI RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MODIFY OR DISCONTINUE PRODUCTS AND BENEFITS AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE. SoFi Private Student loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, such as completion of a loan application and self-certification form, verification of application information, the student's at least half-time enrollment in a degree program at a SoFi-participating school, and, if applicable, a co-signer. In addition, borrowers must be U.S. citizens or other eligible status, be residing in the U.S., Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, or American Samoa, and must meet SoFi’s underwriting requirements, including verification of sufficient income to support your ability to repay. Minimum loan amount is $1,000. See SoFi.com/eligibility for more information. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change. This information is current as of 4/22/2025 and is subject to change. SoFi Private Student loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. NMLS #696891 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

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Jun

2025

University of Central Florida (UCF) Tuition and Fees

By Jenni Bojanin | Uncategorized | Comments Off

University of Central Florida (UCF) Tuition and Fees

The University of Central Florida (UCF) is a large public research university based in Orlando, Florida. Known for its emphasis on innovation and entrepreneurship, UCF offers strong programs in engineering, computer science, business, public administration, education, hospitality management, health care, and video game design. The school prides itself on being a research leader in numerous fields, including optics and lasers, and modeling and simulation. In addition, UCF maintains extensive partnerships with businesses and industries to provide students with a wide range of research and hands-on learning experiences.

Read on to learn about the admission process, the UCF acceptance rate, tuition, financial aid information, and more.

Total Cost of Attendance

In 2024-25, University of Central Florida tuition for in-state students was $6,368 and for out-of-state students was $22,467. These figures have been the same since the 2021-22 school year. The national averages for public four-year schools are $11,260 for in-state students and $29,150 for out-of-state students.

Costs for 2024-25

Student Type	In-State	Out-of-State
Tuition & Fees	$6,368	$22,467
Books & Supplies	$1,200	$1,200
Food & Housing	$12,452	$12,452
Other Expenses	$5,230	$5,230
Total Cost of Attendance	$25,250	$41,349

Financial Aid

In 2022-23, 91% of first-time, full-time undergraduate students received some kind of financial aid. More specifically:

• Grant or scholarship aid: 85% received this type of aid with an average award of $9,585.

• Federal grants: Federal grants (including Pell grants): 26% received this type of aid with an average award of $6,851.

• State/local: 80% received this type of aid with an average award of $6,472.

• Institutional: 39% received this type of aid with an average award of $3,000.

• Student loan aid: 20% received this type of aid with an average award of $6,955.

• Federal student loans: 19% received this type of aid with an average award of $5,430.

• Other student loans: 2% received this type of aid with an average award of $14,907.

Generally, financial aid is monetary assistance awarded to students based on personal need or merit. Students who qualify for financial aid can use it to pay for college costs like tuition, books, and living expenses.

• Grants: Grants are generally based on financial need. These can come from federal, state, private, and nonprofit organizations.

• Work-study: Federal Work-Study provides qualifying students with part-time employment to earn money for expenses while in school.

You can find other financial aid opportunities on databases such as:

• U.S. Department of Education – Search for grants from colleges and universities by state

• College Scholarship Service Profile (CSS) – A global college scholarship application used by select institutions to award financial aid

Private Student Loans

In 2022-23, 2% of UCF students received private student loans, with an average award of $14,907.

What’s more, private loans have variable or fixed interest rates that may be higher than federal loan interest rates, which are always fixed. Private lenders may (but don’t always) require you to make payments on your loans while you are still in school, compared to federal student loans, which you don’t have to start paying back until after you graduate, leave school, or change your enrollment status to less than half-time.

If you’ve missed the FAFSA deadline or you’re struggling to pay for school during the year, private loans can potentially help you make your tuition payments. Just keep in mind that you will need enough lead time for your loan to process and for your lender to send money to your school.

Recommended: Guide to Private Student Loans

Projected 4-Year-Degree Price

Over four years, a degree at UCF will cost (based on 2024-25 numbers) approximately $101,000 for in-state students. This is lower than the average four-year cost of attendance at public universities in the U.S., which is $115,360.

Undergraduate Tuition and Fees

In 2024-25, UCF tuition and fees were $6,368 for in-state students and $22,467 for out-of-state students.

Total costs were as follows:

Student Type	In-State	Out-of-State
Tuition & Fees	$6,368	$22,467
Room & Board	$12,452	$12,452
Total Cost of Attendance	$18,820	$18,820

Graduate Tuition and Fees

In 2024-25, average graduate in-state tuition was $6,916 plus fees of $1,956 for a total of $8,872. Average graduate out-of-state tuition was $25,759 plus fees of $2,898 for a total of $28,657.

Student Type	In-State	Out-of-State
Tuition	$6,916	$25,759
Fees	$1,956	$2,898
Total Tuition & Fees	$8,872	$28,657

Graduate loans can help with this cost.

Cost per Credit Hour

Cost per credit hour at UCF is $212.28 for in-state undergraduates, and $748.89 for out-of-state undergraduates. University of Central Florida tuition has remained stable since at least 2019-2020. Cost per credit hour for graduate students is $369.95 for in-state students and $1,194.05 for out of state.

Campus Housing Expenses

On-campus room and board was $12,452 in 2024-25; off-campus housing was estimated to be the same cost. Other living expenses were approximately $5,230.

Students can stay on the main campus in dorm housing or in Rosen College Apartments, Northview. Off-campus, the university provides information about current housing options .

University of Central Florida Acceptance Rate

In fall 2023, 60,627 people applied to UCF. The University of Central Florida acceptance rate was 40%.

Admission Requirements

To apply to UCF, you’ll need to submit:

• A completed self-provided academic record (called a SPARK form); students who have already completed high school must submit a current official high school or home-school transcript

• Official standardized test scores from either SAT, ACT, or CLT

• Official GED or TOEFL/IELTS score, if applicable

• Application essay (strongly encouraged but not required)

• $30 nonrefundable application fee

• Completed online application (either UCF undergraduate application or Common App)

Important dates:

Freshman Early Action

• Application deadline: October 15

• Material submission Deadline: November 1

• Decision notification date: November 15

Freshman Regular Decision

• Application deadline: May 1 (Fall)

• Material submission deadline: May (Fall)

• Decision notification date: Rolling notifications begin in January

SAT and ACT Scores

In fall 2023, 73% of students submitted SAT scores and 27% submitted ACT scores. The 25th and 75th percentile numbers were:

Subject	25th Percentile	75th Percentile
SAT Evidence-Based Reading/Writing	610	680
SAT Math	580	670
ACT Composite	25	29
ACT English	24	30
ACT Math	23	27

Popular Majors at UCF

UCF offers more than 240 degree programs. Here’s a look at some of the most popular majors.

1. Psychology

Students can choose from six tracks to customize their psychology degree. Each provides a strong foundation in psychological sciences with different areas of emphasis to empower students to independently evaluate information.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 1,509

2. Health Services / Allied Health / Health Sciences

This degree prepares undergraduates to help health care facilities and systems run smoothly, with a focus on providing the highest quality of patient care. There is also an emphasis on community health outcomes.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 854

3. Registered Nursing

The university prepares students to provide comprehensive nursing care in a variety of health care settings. The program focuses on clinical nursing practices, health promotion, and more.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 734

4. Business

Business degrees are available in multiple specialties: accounting, analytics, economics, finance, integrated business, management, marketing, and real estate. Students start as prebusiness majors.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 642

5. Computer Science

This degree focuses on mathematical and theoretical computing foundations, preparing undergraduates for careers in computer gaming, virtual reality, robotics, digital, computing architecture, and more.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 513

6. Criminal Justice

Undergraduates receive a broad education about crime and control mechanisms in society to prepare them for criminal justice professions.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 462

7. Biomedical Sciences

This program provides students with a diverse background in courses that focus on human disease and treatment: anatomy, cell biology, physiology, neurobiology, immunology, and more. Several tracks are available.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 441

8. Mechanical Engineering

Undergraduates learn core mechanical engineering concepts like mechanics, thermodynamics, structural analysis, and materials science.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 424

9. Hospitality Administration

This program is top ranked, nationally and globally, with a curriculum that prepares undergraduates to become the next generation of hospitality leaders.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 402

10. Elementary Education and Teaching

UCF’s B.S. in Elementary Education prepares you to become a K-6 classroom teacher. Coursework covers various elementary subject areas, including reading, language arts, math, social studies, and science. Students also learn through hands-on experience teaching learners with varying abilities.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 261

UCF Graduation Rate

The UCF graduation rate was as follows for the fall 2017 cohort:

• 4 years: 50%

• 6 years: 75%

Post-Graduation Median Earnings

UCF graduates earn a median income of $58,308 a year. This is slightly less than the annual median earnings of U.S. college grads, which is $68,680.

Bottom Line

US News & World Report ranks the University of Central Florida at number 12 for most innovative schools and number 61 in top public schools. In addition to solid national rankings, UCF offers affordable tuition and a reasonable acceptance rate, making it a good option for many prospective students.

Cover up to 100% of school-certified costs including tuition, books, supplies, room and board, and transportation with a private student loan from SoFi.

View your rate

Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

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Jun

2025

Earnings Calendar

By Derek Stratton | Uncategorized | Comments Off

Earnings Calendar

Stay informed with our Earnings Calendar, showcasing upcoming earning announcements from publicly traded companies. Use this resource to help plan your investment decisions and stay updated on market-moving financial disclosures.

Please note: Earnings dates are subject to change based on company decisions or other factors. We recommend checking with the company’s official investor relations page for the most up-to-date information.

Earnings calendar for this week:

Earnings on…

Symbol	Company	Earnings Date	Earnings Time	EPS Estimate	EPS Prior	Period

Source: Benzinga • Dates are subject to change
Last updated: October 2, 2025

Earnings Calendar Defintions:

Earnings Date: The scheduled date when the company is expected to report earnings for the period. This is subject to change.

Earnings Time: The time of day the company is expected to report earnings. Times before 9:30 AM ET are Pre-Market, times between 9:30 AM ET and 4:00 PM ET are Market Hours, and times after 4:00 PM ET are After-Hours.

EPS Estimate: The projected Earnings Per Share (EPS) for the reporting period, as estimated by analysts.

EPS Prior: The company’s actual Earnings Per Share (EPS) from the same period in the previous fiscal year. For example, Q2 2024 compared to Q2 2023.

Period: The fiscal quarter being reported.

Jun

2025

Florida First-Time Home Buying Assistance Programs & Grants for 2025

By Dana Jennings Jelter | mortgage | Comments Off

Florida First-Time Home Buying Assistance Programs & Grants

Florida Programs for First-Time Homebuyers

The Florida Housing Finance Corporation (also called FHFC or Florida Housing) offers first-time buyers a variety of assistance programs which typically include homebuyer education classes. These can help buyers understand how much mortgage they can afford and how the lending and closing processes work.

Here are details regarding available programs in Florida.

Florida Housing Finance Corporation’s Homebuyer Program
Florida Assist Second Mortgage
HFA Preferred and HFA Advantage Plus Second Mortgage
FL HLP Second Mortgage
Florida Hometown Heroes
Local Homebuyer Programs

1. Florida Housing Finance Corporation’s Homebuyer Program

This program offers 30-year fixed-rate FHA, VA, and USDA government-backed loans as well as conventional loans that can be paired with FHFC’s down payment assistance second mortgages. (See below for details.)

Single-family homes, townhomes, approved condos, two- to four-unit homes with the buyer residing in one of the units, modular homes, and mobile homes are allowed.

Buyers must have a credit score of at least 640 and meet the income and purchase price limits in the county where the home is located.

2. Florida Assist Second Mortgage

This program offers up to $10,000 for down payment and closing costs via a 0% interest deferred second mortgage to be used only with a Florida Housing first mortgage.

The second loan is not forgivable, but repayment is deferred until the home is sold, the borrower moves, or the first mortgage is refinanced. Borrowers must meet the same requirements as they do for their first mortgage.

3. HFA Preferred and HFA Advantage Plus Second Mortgage

These forgivable second mortgages allow participants to borrow 3%, 4%, or 5% of the total loan amount for down payment and closing costs. There are no payments, and the loan is forgiven at 20% a year over a five-year term.

4. FL HLP Second Mortgage

The Florida Homeownership Loan Program (FL HLP) offers a loan up to $10,000 for down payment and closing costs with a 3.00% interest rate. The loan is paid over a 15-year term, unless the borrower moves, sells, or refinances, at which time the loan must be paid back in full.

Because there is a monthly payment associated with this loan, it will be considered in an applicant’s debt-to-income ratio when the homebuyer is applying for a first mortgage.

5. Local Homebuyer Assistance Programs

The Hometown Heroes program supports community workers such as law enforcement officers, firefighters, EMTs, educators, health care professionals, and child care operators or employees can receive up to 5% of the first mortgage amount (up to $35,000) in down payment and closing cost assistance if they are first-time homebuyers who meet income and purchase price limits and have a credit score of at least 640.

Military members and veterans are also eligible, and are exempt from the first-time homebuyer requirement.

The assistance takes the form of a 0% interest, 30-year deferred second mortgage that must be repaid if the borrower sells the home, moves, or refinances the first mortgage.

Hometown Heroes can also offer lower-than-market rates on an FHA, VA, USDA, Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac first mortgage and reduced upfront fees.

6. Local Homebuyer Programs

There are some city and area-specific homebuyer programs in areas such as Jacksonville that help first-time buyers in Florida. Be sure to check with the county, city, and local home advocacy organizations where you are buying for other assistance opportunities.

💡 Quick Tip: SoFi’s award-winning mortgage loan experience means a simple application — we even offer an on-time close guarantee. We’ve made $7.5 billion in home loans so we know a thing or two about what makes homebuyers happy.‡

Who Is Considered a First-Time Homebuyer in Florida?

The Florida Housing Finance Corporation is a 45-year-old state agency that provides affordable housing opportunities to first-time and low- to moderate-income homebuyers looking for their place in the Sunshine State.

It considers anyone who has not owned a primary home in the past three years a first-time homebuyer.

In some targeted areas of the state, repeat buyers may also apply for first-time homebuyer programs. And typically veterans need not be first-time buyers.

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How to Apply to Florida Programs for First-Time Homebuyers

The Florida Housing website includes the Homebuyer Loan Program Wizard , an interactive tool that can help you determine your eligibility for Florida first-time homebuyer programs. Florida Housing is not a lender, but the Wizard tool provides a list of approved lenders by location.

It is especially important for first-time buyers, who may be unfamiliar with the mortgage lending process, to compare interest rates, fees, and other costs among lenders to find the most affordable loan. A first-time homebuyer guide can also be helpful in providing a foundation for your property pursuits.

Federal Programs for First-Time Homebuyers

Several federal government programs are designed for people who have low credit scores or limited cash for a down payment. Although most of these programs are available to repeat homeowners, like state programs, they can be especially helpful to people who are buying a first home or who haven’t owned a home in several years.

The mortgages are generally for single-family homes, two- to four-unit properties that will be owner occupied, approved condos, townhomes, planned unit developments, and some manufactured homes.

If you qualify for one of these loans through Florida Housing, that’s advantageous. If not, you can apply for them on your own. Notice that the credit score requirement could be higher with Florida Housing.

Federal Housing Administration (FHA) Loans

The FHA, which is part of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), insures mortgages for borrowers with lower credit scores. Homebuyers choose from a list of approved lenders that participate in the FHA loan program. Loans have competitive interest rates and require a down payment of 3.5% of the purchase price for borrowers, who typically need FICO^® credit scores of 580 or higher. Those with scores as low as 500 must put at least 10% down.

In addition to examining your credit score, lenders will look at your debt-to-income ratio (DTI, your monthly debt payments compared with your monthly gross income). FHA loans allow a DTI ratio of up to 57% in some cases, vs. a typical 45% to 50% maximum for a conventional loan.

Gift money for the down payment is allowed from certain donors and will be documented in a gift letter for the mortgage.

FHA loans always require mortgage insurance: a 1.75% upfront fee and annual premiums for the life of the loan, unless you make a down payment of at least 10%, which allows the removal of mortgage insurance after 11 years. Here’s an example:

• For a $300,000 mortgage balance, upfront MIP would be around $5,250 and monthly MIP, at a rate of 0.55%, would be around $137.

You can learn more about these loans, including FHA loans for refinance and rehab of properties, by reading up on FHA requirements, loan limits, and rates.

Freddie Mac Home Possible Mortgages

Very low- and low-income borrowers may make a 3% down payment on a Home Possible^® mortgage. These loans allow various sources for down payments, including co-borrowers, family gifts, employer assistance, secondary financing, and sweat equity.

The Home Possible mortgage is for buyers who have a credit score of at least 660.

Once you pay 20% of your loan, the Home Possible mortgage insurance will be canceled, which will lower your mortgage payments.

Fannie Mae HomeReady Mortgages

For income limits, a comparison to an FHA loan, and other information, go to this Fannie Mae site .

Fannie Mae Standard 97 LTV Loan

Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Loans

Eligible active-duty members of the military, veterans, reservists, and surviving spouses may apply for loans backed by the Department of Veterans Affairs. VA loans, which can be used to buy, build, or improve homes, have lower interest rates than most other mortgages and don’t require a down payment. Most borrowers pay a one-time funding fee that can be rolled into the mortgage.

Another benefit of VA loans is that they do not require private mortgage insurance (PMI) for borrowers who make a down payment of less than 20%. And they have more flexible credit score requirements. In some cases, even those who have previously been in foreclosure or bankruptcy can qualify.

Borrowers applying for a VA loan will need a Certificate of Eligibility from the VA so make sure to review a guide to qualifying for a VA loan as a first step in the process.

💡 Quick Tip: A VA loan can make home buying simple for qualified borrowers. Because the VA guarantees a portion of the loan, you could skip a down payment. Plus, you could qualify for lower interest rates, enjoy lower closing costs, and even bypass mortgage insurance.†

Native American Veteran Direct Loans (NADLs)

US Department of Agriculture (USDA) Loans

The USDA also directly issues loans to people with low- and very low-incomes. For loan basics and income and property eligibility, head to this USDA site .

HUD Good Neighbor Next Door Program

This program helps police officers, firefighters, EMTs, and teachers qualify for mortgages in the areas they serve. Borrowers can receive 50% off a home in what HUD calls a “revitalization area.” They must live in the home for at least three years.

For more information, visit the HUD program page.

Florida First-Time Homebuyer Stats for 2024

Here’s a snapshot of Florida homebuyers:

• Average home value: $389,400

• 3% down payment: $11,682

• 20% down payment: $77,880

• Average credit score: 707 (vs. 715 nationwide)

Financing Tips for First-Time Homebuyers

In addition to federal and state government-sponsored lending programs, there are other financial strategies that may help you become a homeowner. Some examples:

• Traditional IRA withdrawals. The IRS allows qualifying first-time homebuyers a one-time, penalty-free withdrawal of up to $10,000 from their IRA if the money is used to buy, build, or rebuild a home. The IRS considers anyone who has not owned a primary residence in the past two years a first-time homebuyer. You will still owe income tax on the IRA withdrawal. If you’re married and your spouse has an IRA, they may also make a penalty-free withdrawal of $10,000 to purchase a home. The downside, of course, is that large withdrawals may jeopardize your retirement savings.

• 401(k) loans. If your employer allows borrowing from the 401(k) plan that it sponsors, you may consider taking a loan against the 401(k) account to help finance your home purchase. With most plans, you can borrow up to 50% of your 401(k) balance, up to $50,000 in a 12-month period, without incurring taxes or penalties. You pay interest on the loan, which is paid into your 401(k) account. You usually have to pay back the loan within five years, but if you’re using the money to buy a house, you may have longer to repay.

• Your employer. Your employer may offer access to lower-cost lenders and real estate agents in your area, as well as home buying education courses.

• Your lender. Always ask your lender about any first-time homebuyer grant or down payment assistance programs available from government, nonprofit, and community organizations in your area.

The Takeaway

Some first-time homebuyers in the Sunshine State will qualify for assistance from Florida Housing. These programs can help lower costs of a down payment, mortgage, and closing costs. Other Florida buyers may want to turn to government-backed or conventional loans on their own.

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FAQ

Should I take first-time homebuyer classes?

Yes, this information can help newcomers have a successful home-buying experience. Indeed, these classes are required for most government-sponsored loan programs.

Do first-time homebuyers with bad credit qualify for homeownership assistance?

Many government and nonprofit homeowner assistance programs are available to people with low credit scores. That said, almost any lending program has credit qualifications.

Is there a first-time veteran homebuyer assistance program in Florida?

Yes. The new Hometown Heroes Housing Program provides reduced-rate first mortgages and 0% interest deferred second mortgages for a down payment or closing costs. Military members and vets need not be first-time buyers. Florida veterans may also may find options in the federal Department of Veterans Affairs and Native American Veteran Direct Loan programs listed above.

What credit score do I need for first-time homebuyer assistance in Florida?

Programs administered by the Florida Housing Finance Corporation require a credit score of 640.

What is the average age of first-time homebuyers in Florida?

While the average age of first-time homebuyers in Florida can be hard to find, the average age nationally is 38.

Photo credit: iStock/benedek

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Checking Your Rates: To check the rates and terms you may qualify for, SoFi conducts a soft credit pull that will not affect your credit score. However, if you choose a product and continue your application, we will request your full credit report from one or more consumer reporting agencies, which is considered a hard credit pull and may affect your credit.

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