Top 19 Georgia Scholarships & Grants for 2026 - 2027

Georgia Scholarship & Financial Aid Snapshot

This quick snapshot is built from CollegeWhale’s scholarship database and state-level resources. It shows how many scholarships we currently list for Georgia, the total dollars represented, and a short overview of key state aid programs.

We currently have 119 scholarships in our database tagged for Georgia. This includes statewide programs, school-specific awards, and private or foundation-based scholarships.

Across our Top 19 Georgia Scholarship & Grant listings, the total advertised award value comes to roughly $97,460. Some programs are renewable or stackable, so your real lifetime value could be even higher depending on how long you remain eligible.

Georgia’s HOPE and Zell Miller Scholarships lead the state’s robust merit-aid system. HOPE covers a large portion of tuition at Georgia public colleges, while Zell Miller covers essentially full tuition for top academic performers. Technical college students can also access HOPE Grants, which make many certificate and diploma programs extremely inexpensive. For need-based aid, Georgia offers programs for teaching, engineering, and healthcare pathways. Local foundations and employer scholarships add another layer of support. Georgia students should prioritize maintaining HOPE GPA standards, applying widely to public institutions, and stacking local awards on top of HOPE/Zell for the lowest net price.

Top 19 Georgia Scholarships (Scholarship FastFind™)

The CollegeWhale Scholarship FastFind™ makes it easy to discover the best Georgia scholarships — fast. Filter by award amount, deadline month, and estimated time to apply, then instantly download your personalized list. No sign-ups, no personal info, no spam — just real, verified scholarships.

1

Regions Riding Forward Scholarship

The Regions Riding Forward Scholarship Contest is hosted by Regions Bank and aims to amplify stories of personal inspiration from students in their communities. Entrants submit an essay or video about someone they know personally who has uplifted and empowered

Award: $8,000 Deadline: December Est. Time: Med (~68 min)
2

James L. Maddex, Jr. Scholarship

The James L. Maddex, Jr. Scholarship is established in honor of Professor Emeritus James L. Maddex, Jr., recognizing his significant contributions to the field of criminal justice. This merit-based scholarship is awarded annually to undergraduate or graduate students majoring in

Award: Varies Deadline: January Est. Time: Low (~13 min)
3

Chick-fil-A Bowl Scholarship

The Chick-fil-A Bowl Scholarship recognizes outstanding student-athletes or individuals who have demonstrated exceptional academic performance, leadership, and commitment to their community. It is sponsored by the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl organization and is awarded to students attending the University of Georgia.

Award: $1,000 Deadline: Rolling Est. Time: Med (~58 min)
4

Classic City Scholars

The Classic City Scholars program provides substantial tuition relief for high-achieving non-resident students. The scholarship recognizes academic excellence and offers a waiver for the out-of-state tuition differential, making UGA more accessible to students from outside Georgia. Eligibility Requirements: Residency: Must

Award: $19,040 Deadline: January Est. Time: Low (~13 min)
5

One UGA Scholarship

The One UGA Scholarship is awarded to academically talented students who contribute to the diversity of the University of Georgia community. This scholarship reflects UGA's broad definition of diversity, which includes racial, ethnic, geographic, socioeconomic, and experiential backgrounds. Eligibility Requirements:

Award: $1,500 Deadline: January Est. Time: Low (~13 min)
6

Georgia Harris Scholarship

The Harris Scholarship is awarded to academically superior students graduating from high schools in Clarke County, Georgia. This scholarship aims to support local students in pursuing higher education at the University of Georgia. Eligibility Requirements: Residency: Must be a Georgia

Award: $3,000 Deadline: January Est. Time: Low (~13 min)
7

Georgia Incentive Scholarship

The Georgia Incentive Scholarship is designed to recognize academically superior students from select non-feeder Georgia public high schools. This scholarship supports high-performing students from underserved areas to pursue higher education at UGA. Eligibility Requirements: Residency: Must be a Georgia resident.

Award: $2,000 Deadline: January Est. Time: Low (~13 min)
8

Georgia Charter Scholarship

The Charter Scholarship is awarded to academically talented first-year students from Georgia. This scholarship recognizes outstanding academic achievement and aligns with the University of Georgia’s commitment to rewarding merit and encouraging excellence. Eligibility Requirements: Residency: Must be a Georgia resident.

Award: $2,000 Deadline: January Est. Time: Low (~13 min)
9

Dr. Henry King Stanford Scholarship

The Dr. Henry King Stanford Scholarship is awarded to students who applied for the Foundation Fellowship but were not selected as recipients. It is offered to first-year students who are admitted to the Jere W. Morehead Honors College and demonstrate

Award: $5,000 Deadline: November Est. Time: Low (~13 min)
10

Woodruff Scholarship

The Woodruff Scholarship is awarded to students with outstanding academic achievements and leadership skills. This scholarship is offered to first-year students who are admitted to the Jere W. Morehead Honors College at UGA and demonstrate the potential for exceptional academic

Award: $5,000 Deadline: January Est. Time: Low (~13 min)
11

Charles McDonald Brown Scholarship

The Charles McDonald Brown Scholarship recognizes academically superior students from Georgia who demonstrate strong leadership and exceptional academic achievements. This scholarship supports Georgia residents in pursuing their education at UGA. Eligibility Requirements: Residency: Must be a Georgia resident. Academic Achievement:

Award: $5,000 Deadline: January Est. Time: Low (~13 min)
12

Georgia Classic Scholarship

The Classic Scholarship is awarded to academically strong students from outside Georgia. This merit-based scholarship reduces tuition costs for non-resident students, making UGA more accessible for students across the United States. Eligibility Requirements: Residency: Must be a non-Georgia resident. Academic

Award: $9,520 Deadline: January Est. Time: Low (~13 min)

Georgia Scholarships, Grants & Financial Aid Overview

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How Can I Get Free College Money in Georgia?

Georgia provides numerous opportunities for students to access “free college money,” which refers to grants and scholarships that do not need to be repaid. The best starting point is completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which determines eligibility for federal Pell Grants, state financial aid programs, and many institutional scholarships. Georgia is known for its strong merit-based aid system, and students can also qualify by maintaining strong academic performance in high school.

Key statewide programs include:

  • HOPE Scholarship: A popular merit-based program for Georgia residents who earn at least a 3.0 high school GPA in core academic courses. Award amounts vary based on the institution and the HOPE-approved per-credit rate.
  • Zell Miller Scholarship: A top-tier merit award that covers full tuition at eligible Georgia public colleges for students with a 3.7 GPA and high standardized test scores.
  • Georgia Tuition Equalization Grant (GTEG): Provides financial assistance to Georgia residents attending select private colleges within the state.

Students should also explore:

  • Local community foundation scholarships
  • Employer tuition assistance programs
  • Industry-specific scholarships for fields like healthcare, aviation, education, and agriculture

Applying early, maintaining strong academics, and researching regional scholarships can significantly increase the amount of free college money available.

What Scholarships Are Available in Georgia for College Students?

Georgia college students have access to a number of statewide and institutional scholarships that support academic achievement, financial need, leadership, and specialized career goals. These scholarships help reduce both tuition and out-of-pocket expenses for undergraduate students.

Notable options include:

  • Georgia HERO Scholarship: Provides financial support for children and spouses of Georgia National Guard members or reservists who served in combat zones. Awards may reach up to $2,000 per academic year.
  • REACH Georgia Scholarship: A statewide needs-based program that pairs financial assistance with mentorship and college preparation resources for academically promising low-income students.
  • Institutional Scholarships: Public institutions like the University of Georgia (UGA), Georgia Tech, and Georgia State University offer robust merit and need-based scholarships awarded through their admissions and financial aid offices.

Students are also encouraged to seek scholarships from Georgia nonprofit organizations, professional associations, county-level foundations, and employer-sponsored scholarship programs.

What Is the $1,000 Scholarship in Georgia?

The well-known “$1,000 scholarship” in Georgia typically refers to the HOPE Grant, a need-friendly and skill-focused financial aid program for students attending Georgia technical colleges. This grant supports students in diploma or certificate programs designed to build in-demand workforce skills.

Key features of the HOPE Grant:

  • Open to Georgia residents enrolled in eligible diploma or certificate programs
  • Available at all HOPE-eligible technical colleges
  • Supports short-term career training and technical education pathways
  • Does not require a minimum high school GPA to qualify

While the award amounts vary, many students receive $1,000 or more per year, depending on enrollment intensity and course of study.

What Scholarships Are Available in Georgia for Adults?

Georgia offers several financial aid programs specifically designed to help adult learners return to college, finish degrees, or gain new job skills. These programs make higher education more accessible for working adults and those seeking career advancement or career changes.

Popular options include:

  • Georgia College Completion Grant: Helps near-graduation students who have completed at least 80% of their program but face unexpected financial barriers preventing enrollment.
  • HOPE Career Grant: Provides free tuition for students enrolled in high-demand fields at Georgia technical colleges (e.g., welding, nursing, early childhood education, logistics, cybersecurity).
  • REACH Georgia Scholarship: While primarily for middle and high school students, some returning adult learners may benefit if previously selected as REACH Scholars.

Many Georgia colleges also offer adult learner scholarships, childcare assistance, tuition reimbursement partnerships with employers, and prior learning assessments that help reduce total program costs.

Are There Full-Ride Scholarships in Georgia?

Yes. Georgia offers several highly competitive full-ride and full-tuition scholarships for academically exceptional students. These programs typically cover tuition, fees, room and board, books, and sometimes enrichment opportunities such as study abroad, research funding, and leadership development.

Prominent full-ride options include:

  • Zell Miller Scholarship: Covers full tuition at public colleges and universities in Georgia for qualifying high-achieving students.
  • Stamps Scholarship (UGA & Georgia Tech): One of the nation’s premier merit scholarships, offering full cost of attendance plus enrichment funds.
  • Emory Scholars Program: Includes full-ride and full-tuition awards such as the Woodruff Scholarship for Elites with outstanding academic achievement and leadership potential.

To qualify for full-ride awards, students must show exceptional academic performance, a record of leadership, and strong personal statements or interviews.

What Scholarships Are Available for High School Students in Georgia?

Georgia high school students have numerous options to help finance their future education. These scholarships focus on academic performance, leadership, volunteer service, and future career interests.

Top opportunities include:

  • REACH Georgia Scholarship: A mentoring and financial aid program for selected students beginning in 8th grade and continuing through high school. Students commit to strong academic performance, good behavior, and consistent attendance.
  • Georgia Foundation for Agriculture Scholarship: Supports students pursuing degrees in agriculture, environmental science, animal science, agribusiness, and related fields.
  • HOPE Scholarship: Available to graduating seniors who maintain a 3.0 GPA in core subjects and attend eligible Georgia institutions after high school.

Students should also explore:

  • Rotary Club and Kiwanis Club scholarships
  • Regional community foundation awards
  • Employer-dependent scholarships
  • Contests and essay-based awards available statewide

What Is the Georgia College Completion Grant?

The Georgia College Completion Grant helps students who are close to graduating but encounter unexpected financial obstacles that prevent course registration or degree completion. These small, targeted grants bridge last-mile funding gaps for students who may otherwise stop out.

Eligibility typically includes:

  • Georgia residency
  • Enrollment at an eligible Georgia public college or university
  • Completion of at least 80% of degree requirements
  • Demonstrated unmet financial need

Award amounts vary and are determined by the student’s remaining funding gap. Students must complete the FAFSA and work with their institution’s financial aid office to apply.

Are There Hardship Grants for College Students in Georgia?

Yes, Georgia students facing unexpected emergencies or financial difficulties may qualify for hardship grants or emergency aid. These programs aim to help students remain enrolled during difficult circumstances.

Examples include:

  • HERO Scholarship: Financial aid for the spouses and children of military members who served in a combat zone and experienced injury, death, or missing-in-action status.
  • University Emergency Grant Programs: Colleges such as UGA, Georgia State, Kennesaw State, and Augusta University offer emergency grants to cover unexpected expenses like medical bills, loss of income, housing crises, or transportation needs.
  • HOPE Career Grant: While primarily workforce-focused, it also significantly lowers costs for students in high-demand fields who may be experiencing financial strain.

Students experiencing hardship should contact their college’s financial aid or student support office immediately to explore available assistance.

College Scholarships By Category

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