HOPE Scholarship for Graduate School: The HOPE Scholarship is a merit-based scholarship program established by the Georgia Lottery for Education to promote academic achievement in the state of Georgia. While the HOPE Scholarship is primarily intended to help students pay for their undergraduate education, some students may be eligible to use their HOPE funds towards graduate school as well.
HOPE Eligibility for Graduate Programs
To use your HOPE Scholarship funds for graduate school, you must first have been eligible for and received the HOPE Scholarship during your undergraduate studies. Key eligibility requirements include:
- Graduating from an eligible Georgia high school with a 3.0 GPA or higher
- Maintaining a 3.0 cumulative GPA throughout your undergraduate degree program
You must also enroll in an eligible graduate or professional degree program within 7 years of graduating from your undergraduate program. Eligible programs include master’s degrees, doctoral degrees, and certain professional degree programs like law, pharmacy, and physical therapy.
Using HOPE for a Graduate Degree
If you meet the eligibility requirements above, you can receive HOPE funds to cover tuition and mandatory fees for an eligible graduate program, up to a maximum of 127 semester hours or 190 quarter hours total between undergraduate and graduate studies.
The HOPE Scholarship will cover:
- Tuition and mandatory fees for graduate coursework
- Up to $3,000 per academic year for graduate programs in medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine, pharmacy, physical therapy, and law
It does not cover other costs like room and board, books, supplies, or living expenses. The award amount is also subject to change each year based on state appropriations.
Maintaining HOPE Eligibility in Graduate School
To keep receiving HOPE funds for your graduate program, you must:
- Maintain a 3.0 cumulative GPA in your graduate coursework
- Make satisfactory academic progress as defined by your graduate program standards
- Enroll in coursework required for your approved graduate or professional degree program
If your GPA falls below 3.0 in a term, you will be placed on HOPE probation for one semester. Failing to regain a 3.0 by the end of probation will result in loss of HOPE eligibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use HOPE for a second master’s degree?
No, HOPE funds can only be used for one graduate program. You are not eligible for HOPE for a second master’s degree, even if you have hours remaining.
What if I took time off between my undergraduate and graduate programs?
You can take up to 7 years between completing your undergraduate degree and enrolling in a graduate program. Just make sure to enroll in your graduate program within 7 years to use any remaining HOPE hours.
Can I receive HOPE if I am completing a graduate program part-time?
Yes, as long as you are enrolled in at least 6 credit hours per semester as a part-time student. The award amounts will be prorated based on your enrollment status.
What if I have remaining HOPE hours after completing my graduate program?
Any HOPE hours you have not used are forfeited once you complete your approved graduate program. There is no extension or transfer of unused hours. Plan accordingly to maximize your award.
How do I apply for HOPE for graduate school?
Contact the financial aid office at your graduate institution and inform them you are seeking to use your HOPE Scholarship for an approved graduate program. They will guide you through the application process. Be prepared to provide your undergraduate transcripts and SAT/ACT scores.
Conclusion on HOPE Scholarship for Graduate School
For eligible Georgia students, the HOPE Scholarship can help make graduate and professional education more financially accessible. Carefully reviewing the requirements, maintaining eligibility standards, and applying before deadlines are key steps to take full advantage of this merit-based scholarship program. Let me know if you have any other questions!