Hope Eligibility Bill Passes Senate

ATLANTA (March 22, 2013) – The Georgia State Senate passed House Bill 131 today by a vote of 44 to 5. Carried in the Senate by Sen. Renee Unterman (R-Buford), this legislation would enable Georgia students taking dual credit courses to receive the same treatment as those taking advanced placement (AP) and international baccalaureate (IB) courses when determining HOPE eligibility.

“The HOPE Scholarship began almost two decades ago in Georgia, funded entirely by the proceeds from the Georgia Lottery Corporation,” said Sen. Unterman. “Since then, thousands of Georgia’s students have utilized this visionary program to earn a quality education from our outstanding higher educational system.”

The HOPE scholarship is available to all Georgia students who maintain a 3.0 grade point average. In addition, students taking advanced coursework such as AP or dual credit courses must earn a 3.0 average to meet eligibility requirements. The total award amount varies based upon the college or university of choice and overall academic achievement.

“In many communities throughout the state, especially rural areas, students are often at a disadvantage when it comes to taking AP or IB courses. This legislation simply allows students enrolled in dual credit courses to receive the same treatment when determining eligibility for the HOPE scholarship. In addition to its ability to equalize the playing field for Georgia students, this legislation is consumer friendly and supported by the Governor’s education advisors and the Georgia Student Finance Commission, said Sen. Unterman.”

House Bill 131 will now travel to the Governor’s desk for approval.