HOPE Programs

HOPE (Helping Outstanding Pupils Educationally)

The HOPE Programs, funded by the Georgia Lottery for Education, are unique programs that reward students with financial assistance in degree, diploma, and certificate programs. If eligible, students may receive financial assistance for tuition, mandatory fees, and a book allowance.

HOPE Grant Qualifications (for Diploma and Certificate programs)

• Must meet Georgia residency requirements for 12 consecutive months immediately preceding the term for which HOPE Grant is sought. 
• Must complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
• Must not be in default on Federal Title IV or State aid or owe a refund on Federal Title IV or State aid.
• Must maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.0.
• Must be registered with the Selective Service Board (males only).
• Students are eligible for HOPE Grant payment for a maximum of 95 quarter hours.

HOPE Scholarship Qualifications (for Associate Degree programs)

• Georgia high school graduates must meet Georgia residency requirements for 12 consecutive months immediately preceding the term for which HOPE Scholarship is sought.
• Students who graduated high school or received their GED outside the State of Georgia after July 1, 2008 must meet Georgia residency requirements for 24 consecutive months immediately preceding the term for which HOPE Scholarship is sought.
• Must be a 1993 or later graduate of an eligible Georgia high school.
• Must have a high school cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 for college preparatory curriculum or cumulative 3.2 in other curricula.
• Must complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
• Must not be in default on Federal Title IV or State aid or owe a refund on Federal Title IV or State aid.
• Must maintain a quarterly and cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 2.0 and a 3.0 cumulative GPA at the following credit hour increments - 45,90,135, and at the end of every spring quarter.
• Must be registered with the Selective Service Board (males only).
• Combined Paid Hours Limit:  Eligible students may receive HOPE Scholarship until reaching the Combined Paid-Hours Limit of 190 quarter hours from any combination of HOPE Scholarship Paid-Hours, plus HOPE Grant Paid-Hours, plus Accel Program Paid-Hours.

HOPE Scholarship for Non-Traditional Students (for Associate Degree programs)

You may be eligible for the HOPE Scholarship after attempting 45 college-level credit hours, if you have earned a 3.0 GPA. The other HOPE Scholarship Qualifications listed above will also apply.

HOPE GED Grant Qualifications (effective summer quarter 2009)

• Must complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
• Must not be in default on Federal Title IV or State of Georgia educational loan or owe a refund on Federal Title IV aid or a State of Georgia financial aid program.
• Must be registered with the Selective Service Board (males only).
• Must submit HOPE GED Voucher to Financial Aid Office.
• The HOPE GED Voucher is a one-time award of $500 and must be used within 24 months of issuance.