To qualify for the Georgia HOPE Scholarship, a student must:
* Be a Georgia resident: This is a key requirement.
* Maintain a minimum GPA: The required GPA varies depending on the type of HOPE award (HOPE Grant or HOPE Scholarship), but generally requires a minimum of a 3.0 GPA in high school and continued academic progress in college.
* Complete a certain number of high school courses: Specific courses (including core subjects) must be completed to be eligible.
* Enroll in an eligible program of study: Must be enrolled in a program at an eligible Georgia college or university.
* Maintain satisfactory academic progress: This means maintaining a minimum GPA and completing a certain number of credit hours each term.
* Meet citizenship and other requirements: Must be a US citizen or eligible non-citizen. There are additional requirements regarding felony convictions, etc.
It's crucial to understand that HOPE doesn't cover all college expenses. It typically covers tuition and mandatory fees, but doesn't include room and board, books, supplies, or other living expenses. Also, the amount of assistance can vary based on the student's GPA and the institution's tuition rates. The award is also often prorated if a student's GPA falls below a certain threshold.
To find the most up-to-date and precise requirements, it's best to consult the official website of the Georgia Student Finance Commission. They are the authority on the HOPE program and its eligibility criteria.