The state is looking to enroll more than just its 2014 graduating high school class in postsecondary education this academic year.
The new “Go Back. Move Ahead.” program is part of the Complete College Georgia Initiative, which strives to make it easier for older, non-traditional students to return to college.
The program, also referred to as GBMA, aims to simplify the enrollment process, offer ways to transfer credits, and provide flexible scheduling as well as a personal academic advisor for students.
“The goal is to get as many as we can of the 1.2 million Georgians who have some college, but have yet to achieve some sort of credential, whether it’s a technical college certificate of diploma, or a degree from a university system college,” said Mike Light, TCSG spokesman.
With a degree, students will be qualified for better jobs and higher pay, and will help attract more companies to Georgia, Light said.
Here’s what you should know about “Go Back. Move Ahead.”:
• Launched in July 2014, the program is a collaborative effort of the Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG) and the University System to Georgia to encourage residents to earn a one-year certificate, associate degree or bachelor’s degree.
• Requirements include a high school diploma, GED or current enrollment in GED program.
• Residents can take courses online and on campus at 53 state institutions.
• Residents can apply for state financial aid such as the Zell Miller Grant and HOPE Grant. The Zell Miller Grant covers full tuition at any TCSG institution and requires a 3.5 GPA after enrollment. The HOPE Grant covers 67 percent of tuition costs at most TCSG institutions and does not have a high school GPA requirement.
The 411 on GMBA (Go Back. Move Ahead.)
Website: gobackmoveahead.org
Phone: 1-844-GOBACKNOW
