Spring is an exciting time of the year for your seniors! Since graduation is near, we'd like to help clarify some of the HOPE/Zell Miller Scholarship requirements.
Eligibility and Amounts:
The HOPE/Zell Miller Scholarship is awarded to students who meet the residency and academic requirements set by the Georgia Student Finance Commission. Please check HOPE Eligible Institutions for their award amounts.
How to Apply:
Students must file a valid financial aid application to be eligible for the HOPE/Zell Miller Scholarship for the 2024-2025 academic year. Students can apply for the scholarship in two ways:
Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA): Students must complete this application annually. If they choose to complete the 2024-2025 FAFSA, they will be reviewed for Federal Aid (Federal Loans and Pell Grant) and the HOPE/Zell Miller Scholarship.
Georgia Student Finance Application (GSFAPP): This application is only for the HOPE/Zell Miller Scholarship and is valid for 10 years! ****we recommend for families to complete both forms their first year.
Selective Service Requirement:
By law, male students who are at least 18 years old and want to apply for the HOPE/Zell Miller scholarship must register for Selective Service. Male students who start the academic year at a HOPE Eligible Institution before their 18th birthday will be required to register for Selective Service on or within 30 days of their 18th birthday to continue receiving the scholarship. Students can register online at Selective Service System.
Application Deadline:
The HOPE/Zell Miller application deadline is the last day of your school's term (May 17th). However, please file as early as possible. The earlier they apply, the earlier their college can determine eligibility and awards. Students should also monitor their accounts on GAfutures throughout the remainder of the year for final scholar information.
We hope this information helps you as your students prepare for the next steps in their education.