Maintaining TOPS

Continuing TOPS students are not required to reapply for TOPS or complete a renewal FAFSA unless they qualify for federal grant aid, but they must maintain eligibility based on their award level each year. 

Graduation cap with dollar bills in the background

TOPS Award Levels and Eligibility Requirements

TOPS Opportunity Award

TOPS Performance Award

TOPS Honors Award

TOPS Excellence Award

TOPS Tech Award

If you are unsure or if you need other forms of federal financial aid (student loans, federal work-study), you should complete the FAFSA to determine your eligibility or renew the FAFSA each year to maintain federal financial aid you are already receiving. 

LOSFA’s FAFSA Page
Completing the FAFSA

NAVIGATING YOUR OPTIONS

For Continuing Students

Do I have to reapply for TOPS each year?

NO.Continuing TOPS students are not required to reapply or complete a renewal FAFSA® unless they qualify for federal grant aid, but they must maintain eligibility based on their award level each year.

However,

If you are unsure or if you need other forms of federal financial aid (student loans, federal work-study), you should complete the FAFSA® to determine your eligibility or renew the FAFSA® each year to maintain federal financial aid you are already receiving.

Check with Your Institution

To determine if any institutional aid requires you to renew the FAFSA® each year.

TOPS Program Information 

TOPS Program information

When will I know my TOPS status for next semester?

LOSFA cannot determine your TOPS eligibility for the following semester/term until your college submits your final grades for the current term. Access your TOPS Award Tracker in the Student Hub to monitor the status of your award renewal and to see when your grades have been received by LOFSA.