Student Freedom Initiative
Student Freedom Initiative
APPLY FOR STUDENT FREEDOM INITIATIVE HERE
Morris College students seeking flexible funding alternatives to traditional student loans and opportunities for enhanced educational experiences, can explore the Student Freedom Initiative (SFI).
SFI is a nonprofit organization that supports students at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs), and Tribal Colleges and Universities (TCUs). Its mission is to help students achieve academic success, professional growth, and long-term financial stability. Using a student-centered, evidence-based approach, SFI equips students with tools that strengthen their educational and career outcomes.
Empowering Financial Freedom
SFI helps students from HBCUs, MSIs, and TCUs break free from the challenges of student loan debt that often limit their career options and life choices. Through holistic support, SFI serves as a pathway to opportunity, freedom, and upward mobility.
SFI’s core programs include:
- Student Freedom Loan Agreement
- Student Investment Program (SIP)
- Handling Everyday Life Problems For Students (HELPS) Microgrant Program
- Internships through Fund II Foundation’s internXL
- MSI-Community Living Space Initiative (LiSI)
- Cybersecurity, Broadband and Solar Initiatives
Who Is Eligible for the
Student Freedom Loan Agreement?
The Student Freedom Loan Agreement (SFLA) is a private, income-contingent funding option that allows students to focus on learning and career preparation without the burden of unmanageable debt.
The Student Freedom Loan Agreement (SFLA) is a private, income-contingent funding option that allows students to focus on learning and career preparation without the burden of unmanageable debt.
To qualify, students must:
- Complete a FAFSA or approved state aid application
- Have a valid Social Security number
- Be a sophomore, junior, or senior by credits
- Be enrolled in a high-growth, high-demand major or certification program
- Attend a participating institution
- Maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) as defined by Morris College
- Be at least 18 years old
Note: International or exchange students on non-immigrant visas are not eligible. For eligible STEM majors, visit SFI’s Partners page.
How the SFLA Works
Qualified students can receive up to $20,000 annually toward their educational costs—with no credit check or co-signer required.
Benefits include:
- No origination fees
- Low, fixed interest rate
- No interest capitalization
- No payments required while enrolled
- Option to defer 12 monthly payments post-graduation
- $0 monthly payment when income is below 300% of the Federal Poverty Level
- Debt forgiveness starting in year six if income remains below threshold
Graduates “pay it forward” by contributing back into the program based on income, ensuring future students receive the same opportunity.
The SFLA should be considered as part of a student’s full financial aid plan—complementing federal grants, scholarships, and institutional aid. Students should speak with the Morris College Financial Aid Office to determine if the SFLA best fits their needs.
Visit the Student Freedom Initiative website to learn more or review the full Application and Disclosure details.