Georgia Scholarships & Grants for 2025 - 2026

Overview of Georgia Scholarships & Grants

Georgia offers a wide range of scholarships, grants, and financial aid programs for both in-state and out-of-state students. This guide covers automatic merit scholarships from major universities, full-ride opportunities, statewide grants, and private-school awards. Whether you’re a high school senior, current college student, or parent planning ahead, you’ll find reliable information to help make higher education in Georgia more affordable.

The HOPE and Zell Miller Scholarships lead Georgia’s merit programs.

How Can I Get Free College Money in Georgia?

Georgia offers several financial aid programs that provide “free money” for college—meaning funds that do not need to be repaid. The most common way to qualify is by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and applying for state-funded programs like:

• HOPE Scholarship: A merit-based award for Georgia residents who graduate high school with a minimum 3.0 GPA and maintain eligibility throughout college.
• Zell Miller Scholarship: A higher-tier merit scholarship that covers full tuition for students with a minimum 3.7 GPA and a qualifying SAT or ACT score.
• Georgia Tuition Equalization Grant (GTEG): Provides financial aid to Georgia residents attending eligible private colleges in the state.

Students should also explore institutional aid, local community foundation scholarships, and employer-sponsored programs. Starting early and applying broadly can significantly increase the amount of free college money available.

What Scholarships Are Available in Georgia for College Students?

In addition to the HOPE and Zell Miller Scholarships, college students in Georgia can apply for several state and school-specific awards, including:

• Georgia HERO Scholarship: Supports the children and spouses of Georgia National Guard members and reservists who served in combat zones.
• REACH Georgia Scholarship: A needs-based mentoring and scholarship program for academically promising students from low-income backgrounds.
• Institutional Scholarships: Public colleges like the University of Georgia, Georgia Tech, and Georgia State University offer competitive scholarships based on academic performance, financial need, and leadership.

Many Georgia-based foundations and local organizations also offer scholarships. Students are encouraged to check with their school’s financial aid office and use state-specific scholarship directories for more options.

What Is the $1,000 Scholarship in Georgia?

The “$1,000 scholarship” often refers to the HOPE Grant, a state-funded program that provides financial assistance to Georgia residents enrolled in diploma or certificate programs at technical colleges. Unlike the HOPE Scholarship, which is for associate and bachelor’s degrees, the HOPE Grant focuses on career and workforce training. Award amounts vary depending on enrollment and program length, but eligible students may receive up to $1,000 or more in aid toward tuition and mandatory fees.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Be a Georgia resident.
• Be enrolled in an eligible certificate or diploma program at a HOPE-eligible technical college.
• Maintain satisfactory academic progress.

What Scholarships Are Available in Georgia for Adults?

Georgia supports adult learners through several financial aid programs designed to help them return to school and complete their degrees or acquire new skills:

• Georgia College Completion Grant: A needs-based award for students who have earned some college credit but haven’t yet completed a degree. Designed to help students cross the finish line without additional debt.
• HOPE Career Grant: Provides free tuition for students enrolled in high-demand fields like healthcare, logistics, welding, computer programming, and early childhood education at Georgia technical colleges.
• REACH Georgia Scholarship: Also available to non-traditional students in some cases, especially those returning to complete degrees with financial need.

These programs make higher education more accessible for adult learners balancing work, family, and education.

Are There Full-Ride Scholarships in Georgia?

Yes, full-ride scholarships are available to Georgia students through both state programs and institutional awards:

• Zell Miller Scholarship: A merit-based award that covers 100% of tuition at public colleges and universities in Georgia. Eligible students must graduate high school with a 3.7 GPA and earn a 1200+ SAT or 26+ ACT composite score.
• Stamps Scholarship at Georgia Tech and UGA: A prestigious full-ride scholarship covering tuition, room, board, books, and enrichment opportunities. Based on academic excellence, leadership, and community impact.
• Emory University Scholarships: Emory offers competitive full-tuition and full-ride scholarships such as the Emory Scholars Program, available through its merit-based admission process.

To qualify, students should apply early, demonstrate strong academics, leadership, and often complete separate scholarship applications or interviews as part of the process.

What Scholarships Are Available for High School Students in Georgia?

Georgia high school students have access to several scholarship programs that support academic achievement and career-focused education. Notable options include:

• REACH Georgia Scholarship: A needs-based program that provides financial support and mentorship for middle and high school students from low-income families. Students are selected in 8th grade and commit to maintaining good grades, behavior, and attendance throughout high school.
• Georgia Foundation for Agriculture Scholarship: Designed for students planning to pursue a degree in agriculture or a related field. Applicants must demonstrate leadership, academic achievement, and an interest in Georgia’s agricultural industry.
• HOPE Scholarship: While often associated with college students, eligible high school seniors can qualify for this merit-based award by maintaining a 3.0 GPA in core subjects and graduating from a HOPE-eligible Georgia high school.

Tip: Students should also check with local school districts, rotary clubs, and community foundations for regional scholarship opportunities.

What Is the Georgia College Completion Grant?

The Georgia College Completion Grant is a financial aid program aimed at helping students who are close to graduating but face unexpected financial barriers. This grant is particularly helpful for:

• Georgia residents attending eligible public colleges and universities.
• Students who have completed at least 80% of their program of study.
• Those who demonstrate financial need that prevents them from registering for remaining coursework.

The award amount varies based on the student’s funding gap. To apply, students must complete the FAFSA and consult their college’s financial aid office.

Are There Hardship Grants for College Students in Georgia?

Yes, students in Georgia who are facing financial hardship may be eligible for emergency grants and hardship scholarships, including:

• HERO Scholarship: Offers up to $2,000 annually to the children and spouses of Georgia National Guard members and U.S. military reservists who served in combat zones.
• University Emergency Funds: Schools like Kennesaw State University, Georgia State, and the University of Georgia offer emergency grant programs for students experiencing unexpected challenges such as medical bills, housing insecurity, or family emergencies.
• HOPE Career Grant: While not specifically a hardship grant, it can fully cover tuition for students pursuing in-demand technical careers, easing financial strain for returning or adult learners.

Tip: Students facing financial emergencies should speak with a campus financial aid advisor to explore emergency aid, food pantry services, and additional campus resources.