Shannon Kietzman, Contributing Writer
When it comes to paying for college, you may be surprised to learn that there are a number of different state scholarship programs that can help alleviate the expense. In order to take advantage of these programs, however, you often have to plan ahead and to register for the tuition assistance within a certain timeframe. Therefore, it is a good idea to contact a school in your area in order to learn more about scholarships available to state residents interested in furthering their education. Here is a look at just a few of the scholarship opportunities that various states have to offer.
The Twenty-First Century Scholars Program was started in Indiana in 1990. This program offers low and moderate-income families the opportunity to have their entire college tuition paid. In order to qualify for the program, students have to complete an application form during 6th, 7th or 8th grade. Students also have to meet certain income guidelines and must commit to staying in school and staying away from drugs and alcohol. In this way, the program aims to give students a chance to attend college while also reducing drop out rates and decreasing drug abuse among middle school and high school students. Those students that enroll in the program and complete its requirements can have their entire tuition paid once they head off to college.
The Tuition Assistance Program in New York is also based on need and will help pay up to $5,000 of a qualified student's college expenses. To apply, residents only need to complete a FAFSA and must be a state resident attending a state university. The state also offers a merit based scholarship called the New York State Scholarships for Academic Excellence. This program offers academically talented students a scholarship of $1,500 for up to four years if they attend an in-state university.
Started in 1997, the Bright Futures Scholarship Program is scholarship program that is funded by the state lottery. In order to qualify for the program, students must meet specific academic criteria. These criteria vary depending upon which of the three different types of scholarships the student wishes to pursue and students have to apply for the scholarship during their last year of high school in order to be eligible. Therefore, if you miss the window for applying, you will miss out on a great opportunity to potentially have the full costs of your education paid for by the program.
One common theme you will find with most state scholarship programs is that you have to attend a college or university within the state in order to qualify for the award. The reason for this is simple: states are hoping to keep their residents in their states. By paying the tuition for a state college or university, the money stays within the state. In addition, a person is more likely to remain in the state where he or she obtains a higher education. So, if you are willing to stay in your state of residency for another four years, state scholarship programs can help alleviate the financial burden associated with going back to school. In some cases, you may even enjoy a full ride!