HOPE and Zell Miller Scholarships
Scholarship · Georgia Student Finance Commission · Online
Georgia's lottery-funded merit scholarships for in-state tuition.
Our take
Georgia pays most (HOPE, 3.0 GPA) or all (Zell Miller, 3.7 GPA plus a 1200 SAT or 25 ACT) of tuition at public colleges. The most money most Georgia students will ever get for the least paperwork.
“Helps an application” is our read on how much an admissions reader is likely to weigh it: Strong means getting in or placing is a real achievement, Solid means it shows real interest and effort, and Light usually means most students who apply and pay can attend. It’s our opinion, not a ranking from any college, and a light one can still be a great summer.
The details
- Run by
- Georgia Student Finance Commission
- Type
- Scholarship
- Format
- Online
- When
- During the school year
- Who can apply
- 12th grade, residents of GA only
- How hard to get in
- Open
- Cost
- Free
- Deadline
- Apply through GAfutures (GSFAPPS) or the FAFSA in senior year.
- Subjects
- Any subject
Dates, costs and rules change every year. Check the official site before you apply. Last checked October 18, 2026.
Questions
Is HOPE and Zell Miller Scholarships worth it?
Georgia pays most (HOPE, 3.0 GPA) or all (Zell Miller, 3.7 GPA plus a 1200 SAT or 25 ACT) of tuition at public colleges. The most money most Georgia students will ever get for the least paperwork. On how much it helps a college application, we rate it strong.
How much does HOPE and Zell Miller Scholarships cost?
It’s free, or it pays you. Check the official site for this year’s price.
When is the HOPE and Zell Miller Scholarships deadline?
Apply through GAfutures (GSFAPPS) or the FAFSA in senior year. Exact dates change every year, so confirm on the official site.
Who can apply to HOPE and Zell Miller Scholarships?
Students in 12th grade, and only residents of GA. It is open, so most students who apply and pay can attend.
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