Georgia HOPE Scholarship
Scholarship Sponsored by GAfutures
Introduction
To be considered for the HOPE Scholarship, applicants must satisfy several application and eligibility requirements set by the State of Georgia and participating postsecondary institutions.
How to Apply
Students may apply for the HOPE Scholarship by choosing one of the following application methods:
- File the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), or
- Complete the online Georgia Student Finance Application (GSFAPP).
Important: The FAFSA must be submitted every year.
When to Apply (Deadline and Recommendation)
The application cutoff is the earlier of: the last day of the student’s school term or the student’s official withdrawal date. Because award determinations depend on timely application processing, applicants are strongly encouraged to submit the FAFSA or GSFAPP as soon as possible so their college can evaluate eligibility and award amounts without delay. Also check with your institution — additional campus-specific applications or deadlines may apply.
Eligibility Requirements
To receive the HOPE Scholarship initially after high school graduation and to retain it while enrolled, a student must meet the following basic criteria:
1. Satisfy U.S. citizenship or qualifying non-citizen requirements.
2. Fulfill the Georgia residency rules required by the postsecondary institution.
3. Be enrolled as a degree-seeking student at a University System of Georgia (USG) campus, a Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG) campus, or an eligible private college or university in Georgia.
4. Comply with Selective Service registration requirements, if applicable.
5. Meet the Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) standards of the enrolled postsecondary institution.
6. Be in good standing on any student loans or other financial aid programs.
7. Comply with the Georgia Drug-Free Postsecondary Education Act of 1990, O.C.G.A. §20-1-20, et seq.
8. Not have exceeded the maximum award limits for any HOPE program.
Additional Important Notes About Loans and Refunds
Students must not be in default on any federal or Georgia student loans, grants, or scholarships. If a student is in default on a federal or State of Georgia loan, the loan must be fully repaid or the default cleared before HOPE eligibility can be established. Likewise, students who owe refunds to any State of Georgia scholarship or grant program must repay the refund in full prior to being determined eligible for the HOPE Scholarship.