Georgia HOPE Scholarship
Scholarship Sponsored by GAfutures
Introduction
To receive the HOPE Scholarship, applicants must submit one of two official applications and meet specific eligibility rules. Apply as early as possible so your college can confirm your award status sooner rather than later.
How to apply
- Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), or
- Complete the Georgia Student Finance Application (GSFAPP) online.
Note: The FAFSA must be filed every year.
Application deadline
The deadline for applying is the student’s last day of the school term or the date the student withdraws, whichever comes first. You are strongly encouraged to file the FAFSA or GSFAPP early; earlier submission allows institutions to determine eligibility and award amounts sooner. Also check with your chosen postsecondary school for any additional application steps or institutional deadlines.
Basic eligibility requirements
To receive the HOPE Scholarship initially after high school graduation and to maintain it while enrolled at an eligible postsecondary institution in Georgia, a student must meet all of the following:
1. Satisfy U.S. citizenship or eligible non‑citizen criteria.
2. Meet the Georgia residency requirements of the postsecondary institution.
3. Be enrolled as a degree‑seeking student at a University System of Georgia (USG) school, a Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG) institution, or an eligible private Georgia college or university that participates in the HOPE program.
4. Be compliant with Selective Service registration requirements (when applicable).
5. Adhere to the enrolled institution’s Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) policy.
6. Be in good standing regarding 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.
Important notes about defaults and refunds
A student cannot be eligible for the HOPE Scholarship if they are in default on any federal or State of Georgia student loan, grant, or scholarship. Any loan in default must be fully repaid or otherwise brought out of default before HOPE eligibility can be established. Likewise, if a student owes a refund to a State of Georgia scholarship or grant program, that refund must be paid in full prior to determining HOPE eligibility.