The Zell Miller Scholarship 2026/2027 is one of Georgia’s most prestigious merit-based college funding awards for high-achieving in-state students. This scholarship provides full standard tuition coverage for eligible students pursuing an undergraduate degree at qualifying colleges and universities in Georgia. If you are planning for college in 2026 or 2027, understanding how the Zell Miller Scholarship works can help you make informed decisions about your academic performance, testing goals, application process, and financial planning.
In this comprehensive article, we will cover everything you need to know — from eligibility requirements and award amounts to renewal rules and practical tips.
What Is the Zell Miller Scholarship?
The Zell Miller Scholarship is a state-funded merit scholarship program offered by the Georgia Student Finance Commission (GSFC). It is designed to reward students with a record of academic excellence by helping cover tuition costs at eligible postsecondary institutions within the state. Unlike need-based aid, the Zell Miller Scholarship is purely merit-based, which means eligibility is tied directly to academic performance rather than financial need.
Who Qualifies for the Zell Miller Scholarship 2026/2027?
For the 2026/2027 award year, students must meet specific criteria before college enrollment to be initially eligible:
1. Georgia Residency
Applicants must be legal residents of Georgia. This scholarship is intended to support students who plan to stay in Georgia for their postsecondary education.
2. High School GPA Requirement
Students must graduate from an eligible Georgia high school with a minimum 3.7 high school GPA, as calculated by the Georgia Student Finance Commission. This GPA is based on core academic coursework and determined using the state’s official formula.
3. Standardized Test Score
In addition to GPA, students must achieve one of the following:
Minimum SAT score of 1200 on the combined Evidence-Based Reading and Writing and Math sections, from one sitting, or
Minimum ACT composite score of 26 (or an equivalent score based on the current concordance guide).
These scores must be recorded before high school graduation.
4. Academic Rigor
Students must complete a minimum number of rigor courses (such as AP, IB, or advanced classes) depending on the year they graduate. These courses demonstrate academic challenge and strengthen eligibility.
5. Alternate Eligibility
Graduating as valedictorian or salutatorian of the high school class may make a student eligible for Zell Miller even if the minimum GPA/testing requirements are not fully met.
How Much Does the Zell Miller Scholarship Cover?
The Zell Miller Scholarship covers full standard undergraduate tuition (but not fees, books, or housing) at eligible public and private institutions in Georgia. This means that if your school’s tuition is equal to or less than the state’s standard tuition rate, the scholarship will cover that amount. year, full-time students received approximately $2,985 per semester at participating private institutions and a per-credit hour amount at public colleges — which equated to full standard tuition.
Actual award amounts can change based on state budget appropriations, so it’s important to check official GSFC releases for 2026/2027 figures as they become available.
Maintaining the Scholarship in College
Receiving the Zell Miller Scholarship as a freshman is only the first step. To continue receiving the scholarship each semester, students must maintain academic eligibility in college. Here are the key rules:
1. College GPA Requirement
Once enrolled, students must maintain a minimum 3.3 cumulative GPA (HOPE GPA) at specific checkpoints (such as after 30, 60, and 90 attempted hours) to keep the scholarship active.
2. Attempted Hours
Colleges count all attempted credits (even withdrawn courses) toward the scholarship checkpoints, and eligibility is reviewed at preset milestones in the college career.
3. Maximum Duration
Students can receive Zell Miller funding up to 127 attempted semester hours or 190 quarter hours. Also, there is typically a 10-year limit from high school graduation for first receiving funds for students starting in recent years. How to Apply for the Zell Miller Scholarship
Step 1: Create a GAfutures Account
Start by creating an account on the Georgia Student Finance Commission’s portal, My GAfutures, to track eligibility, GPA, and award history.
Step 2: Submit Necessary Applications
Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) — this also automatically considers you for state aid like Zell Miller.
If you only want to apply for state aid and not federal aid, complete the Georgia State Financial Aid Application (GSFAPPS).
Step 3: Submit SAT/ACT Scores and High School Records
Ensure your SAT or ACT scores are sent to GSFC before high school graduation and that your transcript meets the GPA and rigor requirements.
Click here to apply from the official website
Retroactive Eligibility (If Not Initially Eligible)
If a student does not qualify upon high school graduation but later earns a qualifying GPA in college and has the required SAT/ACT score, they may be eligible for retroactive Zell Miller Scholarship funds. This would reimburse past semesters and continue funding from that point forward.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is income considered?
No — the Zell Miller Scholarship is not need-based. Household income does not affect qualification.
Does it cover books and housing?
No, the scholarship pays tuition only. Fees, books, housing, and other expenses are typically not covered.
Can awards change each year?
Yes — award amounts and standardized test equivalencies may be updated annually by the Georgia Student Finance Commission.
Tips to Maximize Your Chances
Focus on a strong GPA — aim for 3.7 or above in core academic classes.
Prepare for standardized testing so you can achieve the SAT/ACT threshold on one test sitting.
Track your eligibility using the GAfutures portal.
Apply early and make sure all documentation is submitted before deadlines.
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Conclusion Thought
The Zell Miller Scholarship 2026/2027 is a powerful merit award that can make college more affordable for academically excellent Georgia residents. It offers full tuition coverage — a major financial benefit — but comes with strict academic requirements and checkpoints. By understanding and planning for GPA expectations, test score goals, application steps, and renewal standards, you can position yourself for success and fully leverage this opportunity.
