Montanas Best and Brightest Scholarship

Name: Governors Best and Brightest Scholarship

Award Amount: Up to $4,000 per year

Information And Eligibility:
The Governors Best and Brightest Scholarship is a state-supported, need-based financial aid program designed to help Montana residents afford the cost of undergraduate education. The scholarship is intended to recognize students who demonstrate strong academic performance while also facing financial barriers to college access. By combining academic merit with financial need, the program supports students who are committed to completing a postsecondary degree and contributing to Montana’s workforce and communities.

This scholarship is available to undergraduate students attending eligible public or private colleges and universities within Montana. Students may enroll full time or part time, provided they meet the minimum enrollment requirement. Award amounts vary depending on available funding, the student’s level of financial need as determined by the FAFSA, enrollment status, and institutional cost of attendance. Because funding is limited, awards are not guaranteed each year and may depend on state appropriations and institutional allocation.

The Governors Best and Brightest Scholarship is renewable, meaning students may continue to receive funding in subsequent academic years if they remain eligible. Renewal typically requires maintaining satisfactory academic progress, continuing enrollment at an eligible Montana institution, and filing the FAFSA annually. This structure encourages persistence toward degree completion while providing ongoing financial support.

Funds awarded through this program may be used to cover a wide range of education-related expenses, including tuition, mandatory fees, books, supplies, and other costs associated with attending college. For many students, the scholarship serves as a critical supplement to federal grants, institutional aid, and other state programs, helping reduce reliance on student loans.

Students do not apply for the Governors Best and Brightest Scholarship through a separate application. Instead, eligibility is determined by the student’s FAFSA information and enrollment at a participating Montana institution. Financial aid offices at each institution are responsible for awarding funds to eligible students based on program guidelines and available funding.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be a legal resident of Montana.
• Must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid.
• Must demonstrate financial need as determined by FAFSA results.
• Must be enrolled at least half time in an undergraduate degree program.
• Must attend an eligible Montana college or university.
• Must maintain satisfactory academic progress as defined by the institution.

Application Process:

• Complete the FAFSA each academic year and list a Montana institution.
• Enroll in an eligible undergraduate program at a participating Montana college or university.
• Meet all residency, enrollment, and academic progress requirements.
• Work with the institution’s financial aid office to confirm eligibility and award status.

Deadline: Varies; students are encouraged to file the FAFSA as early as possible and consult their institution’s financial aid office for priority deadlines.

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