Types of Aid
Grants are awarded on the basis of financial need and do not require repayment. Frequently
called gift aid, grants are available through federal and state governments and private
sources. To apply for aid in any of the federal programs, you must be a citizen of
the United States or intend to become a permanent resident, or be otherwise classified
as an eligible noncitizen.
HOPE are available to eligible Georgia residents who graduated from a HOPE-approved
high school. Awards are made to graduating high school seniors with at least a 3.0
Grade Point Average (GPA) as determined by Georgia Student Finance Commission (GSFC).
HOPE recipients must also maintain a 3.0 cumulative grade point average while in college.
Students who are not eligible out of high school can gain eligibility after attempting
30 semester hours as long as they meet all other eligibility requirements. HOPE awards
are based on credit hours of enrollment. HOPE Scholarship rates can be found here
on the Georgia Student Finance Commission (GSFC) website. HOPE does not cover fees,
books or Learning Support coursework.
Loans are available through private sources, federal and state government and the
institution and must be repaid. Eligibility and terms may vary. Rate of interest,
interest benefits, the repayment period and even when repayment begins depend on the
particular loan.
Scholarships may be based on merit, need, talent or a combination of factors, and
they do not require repayment. Augusta University offers scholarships related to all
of these categories. 85% of scholarships come from students' home communities like
civic organizations, religious organizations, trust departments of banks and employers
of family members.
Federal Work Study (FWS) promotes the part-time employment of students who demonstrate
financial need in accordance with federal guidelines. Federal Work Study students
are employed in many departments on campus as well as agencies and organizations throughout
the Augusta area. All interested students must complete the Free Application for Federal
Student Aid (FAFSA) and other necessary documentation before eligibility can be determined.
For more information on completing the financial aid application process, students
should visit the Augusta University Financial Aid Office website's “How to Apply”
page.