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Top US State Scholarships to Apply After High School

Writer's picture: EduretiXEduretiX

Done with your SAT/ACT? Applying to your dream colleges but finances holding you back? Here's some information you don't wanna miss out on. Navigating the financial landscape of higher education can be daunting, but excelling in standardized tests like the SAT or ACT can open doors to numerous merit-based scholarships across the United States. Many states and institutions offer automatic scholarships and financial aid based on these test scores, providing substantial financial relief to students.


US State Scholarship programs after High School

1. Florida: Bright Futures Scholarship


The Bright Futures Scholarship is Florida’s premier merit-based scholarship program, helping students achieve their college dreams without the financial strain. It offers three types of awards: Florida Academic Scholars (FAS), Florida Medallion Scholars (FMS), and Gold Seal Vocational Scholars (GSV).

The FAS award covers 100% of tuition and fees at eligible in-state colleges and provides an additional $300 per semester for educational expenses, like books. To qualify, students need a 3.5 weighted GPA, 1330 SAT or 29 ACT, and 100 hours of community service. The FMS award covers 75% of tuition and fees, requiring a 3.0 GPA, 1210 SAT or 25 ACT, and 75 service hours. Lastly, the GSV program supports students pursuing technical or vocational programs, covering specific tuition costs. This program ensures students can access higher education tailored to their unique goals.



2. Georgia: HOPE Scholarship and Zell Miller Scholarship


Georgia residents can benefit from two exceptional merit-based scholarships: the HOPE Scholarship and the Zell Miller Scholarship, both funded by the Georgia Lottery.

The HOPE Scholarship provides partial tuition coverage to students attending eligible public or private colleges in Georgia. To qualify, students must maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA in high school core classes and continue with a 3.0 GPA in college. For those with outstanding academic achievements, the Zell Miller Scholarship covers 100% tuition. This scholarship requires a 3.7 GPA and either a 1200 SAT or 26 ACT score in a single sitting. Both programs are designed to keep talented students in-state while easing their financial burdens.



3. Tennessee: HOPE Scholarship


The Tennessee HOPE Scholarship, funded by the state lottery, provides financial assistance to Tennessee residents attending in-state public or private colleges.

To qualify, students must graduate with a minimum 3.0 GPA or score at least a 21 on the ACT (1060 SAT equivalent). Award amounts vary depending on the institution type and the student’s year of study. This program is an excellent opportunity for Tennessee students to pursue higher education while staying closer to home.



4. South Carolina: LIFE Scholarship


The Legislative Incentive for Future Excellence (LIFE) Scholarship offers financial support to South Carolina residents attending in-state colleges.

Eligibility requires students to meet two out of three criteria: a minimum 3.0 GPA, a score of 1100 on the SAT (24 ACT), or a class rank within the top 30%. The scholarship provides up to $5,000 annually, covering tuition and other related costs. The LIFE Scholarship is an excellent way to reward well-rounded academic performance while encouraging students to study in-state.



5. Kentucky: KEES Program


The Kentucky Educational Excellence Scholarship (KEES) rewards high school students for academic performance by providing funds for postsecondary education within Kentucky.

Students earn KEES money for every year of high school with a GPA of 2.5 or higher. Bonus awards are added for ACT scores starting at 15. The total scholarship amount increases with improved academic performance, ensuring students are motivated throughout high school. KEES funds can be used at any eligible Kentucky college or university, making it a great incentive for local students.


There are several Nation wide scholarship programs as well that you can apply to get into, in case you feel there aren't enough good financial aid options within your home state.

6. New Mexico: Legislative Lottery Scholarship


New Mexico’s Legislative Lottery Scholarship is a tuition assistance program for residents attending in-state public colleges or universities.

Students become eligible after completing their first semester of college with a minimum GPA (which varies by year). The scholarship covers a significant portion of tuition for up to seven semesters, encouraging students to maintain strong academic performance throughout their college journey.



7. West Virginia: PROMISE Scholarship


The Providing Real Opportunities for Maximizing In-State Student Excellence (PROMISE) Scholarship is a merit-based program that helps West Virginia residents afford in-state college education.

To qualify, students must graduate high school with a 3.0 GPA and achieve a 22 ACT composite score (with minimum sub-scores) or an SAT equivalent. The scholarship covers full tuition and mandatory fees at public institutions or provides an equivalent amount for private in-state colleges. This program is an excellent way for West Virginia students to pursue their academic goals without financial stress.



8. Arkansas: Academic Challenge Scholarship


Funded by the Arkansas Scholarship Lottery, the Academic Challenge Scholarship provides financial assistance to Arkansas residents pursuing higher education.

Students need a minimum ACT score of 19 (or equivalent GPA) to qualify. Award amounts vary depending on the institution type and year of study, offering substantial support to students who maintain their academic performance. This scholarship is a great way to reward Arkansas students for their hard work and dedication.



9. Nevada: Millennium Scholarship


The Governor Guinn Millennium Scholarship supports Nevada students by providing financial aid for postsecondary education within the state.

To qualify, students must graduate with a 3.25 GPA and complete a set number of high school core courses. The scholarship awards up to $10,000 over four years, making it a valuable resource for students aiming to reduce college expenses while staying in Nevada.



10. Mississippi: HELP Scholarship


The Higher Education Legislative Plan (HELP) Scholarship provides full tuition assistance to Mississippi residents with financial need who meet specific academic requirements.

Eligibility includes completing the Mississippi high school curriculum, maintaining a 2.5 GPA, and scoring at least 20 on the ACT. The HELP Scholarship ensures that financial barriers don’t prevent talented students from pursuing higher education in Mississippi.



11. Alaska: Performance Scholarship


The Alaska Performance Scholarship (APS) rewards high-achieving Alaskan students for their academic success.

Eligibility is based on GPA, ACT/SAT scores, and completion of specific high school coursework. The scholarship provides up to $4,755 annually, which can be applied toward tuition and related expenses. The APS is an excellent way for Alaska residents to pursue their college goals while reducing financial burdens.


Making the most of State scholarship programs after High School


These state-funded programs provide incredible opportunities for students to pursue higher education without the burden of massive debt. This is not an exhaustive list of scholarships available for the US students. There are many more and you should specifically look for the ones your state is offering. This article is more like a reminder that you start doing that. Research your state’s options and make the most of your academic achievements!



*SAT, Digital SAT are registered trademarks owned by the College Board, and EduretiX is not related to the College Board in any way or holds any ownership on the trademarks.

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