You’ve taken that step. You’ve decided to get more education and focus on your career. But how do you pay for it? Check out these resources and options that’ll help you pay for school in Georgia.
HOPE Grant
The HOPE Program is probably the most well-known scholarship program in Georgia. Since 1993, tens of thousands of Georgia students have enrolled in technical colleges and state universities with tuition costs covered. More specifically, the HOPE Grant (tcsghopeinfo.com) has helped students to attend the 24 colleges of the Technical College System of Georgia. In 2014, the Georgia General Assembly gave additional financial assistance for HOPE, especially for students at TCSG colleges. You must have a 2.0 grade point average to keep the HOPE Grant for TCSG colleges and 3.0 for University System of Georgia colleges.
Zell Miller Grant
As part of the HOPE program (tcsghopeinfo.com), the Zell Miller Grant covers 100 percent of tuition for students who maintain a 3.5 GPA at TCSG colleges and Bainbridge State College, which is part of the University System of Georgia. The scholarship covers 100 percent of tuition for students with a 3.7 GPA at USOG colleges.
Strategic Industries Workforce Development Grant
The Strategic Industries Workforce Development Grant (tcsghopeinfo.com) helps students in particular program areas that state lawmakers want to help grow. Students can use this grant to supplement the HOPE Grant or Zell Miller Grant, and it can be used for tuition, fees and books. The grant was created for commercial truck driving, early childhood care and education, and practical nursing programs. In 2014, welding, healthcare technologies, diesel mechanic and information technology programs were added to the list. You must be in college, enrolled in one of these programs and a recipient of the HOPE Grant to be eligible.
Low-interest Student Access Loan-Technical (SALT)
Georgia put funds into a new, need-based, low-interest loan for technical college students. Students can receive SALT loans between $300 and $3,000, depending on need, and it carries a 1 percent interest. The loan can be used for tuition, books and fees. The loan will be completely forgiven if the student graduates with a 3.5 GPA, effectively giving you the equivalent of a Zell Miller Scholarship after you graduate. The financial aid office at your technical college can help you with this application.
Federal Pell Grant
The Pell Grant is based on financial need. Students should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) using tax returns from the previous year. Students must complete this each year at fafsa.ed.gov to receive funding.
Federal Supplemental Education Opportunity Grant
The Federal Supplemental Education Opportunity Grant is a need-based grant for undergraduates. Students must apply through FAFSA (fafsa.ed.gov. Funds are limited, so only students with the most financial need are eligible.
Leveraging Educational Assistance Partnership Grant
Leveraging Educational Assistance Partnership Grant is a need-based grant funded by the state of Georgia. Students must apply through FAFSA (fafsa.ed.gov). Funds are limited, so only students with the most financial need are eligible
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