Alabama Commission on Higher Education
The Alabama Commission on Higher Education (ACHE) is the state agency responsible for the overall statewide planning and coordination of higher education in Alabama, the administration of various student aid programs, and the performance of designated regulatory functions. The Commission seeks to provide reasonable access to quality collegiate and university education for the citizens of Alabama. The Office of Student Assistance is responsible for administering the following state-sponsored student financial aid programs:
State Grant Opportunities
- Alabama Student Assistance Program (ASAP)- ASAP is a need-based, state/federal grant ranging from $300 to $5,000 per academic year. Eligible students are undergraduate students who are Alabama residents attending eligible Alabama institutions. To apply, please submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to the federal government.
- Alabama Student Grant Program - This grant is available only to students at an eligible independent Alabama college or university and is not a need-based program. Grant amounts vary from year to year based on the availability of funds but cannot exceed $3,000 per academic year.
- Alabama National Guard Educational Assistance Program - This need-based financial award is used for tuition and educational fees for Alabama National Guard members to attend a public postsecondary educational institution in Alabama. The award is for students who are active members in good standing with a federally recognized unit of the Alabama National Guard.
- Police Officer's and Firefighter's Survivor's Educational Assistance Program (POFSEAP) - The grant covers tuition, fees, books, and supplies for dependents and eligible spouses of Alabama police officers and firefighters killed in the line of duty. There is no limit on the amount awarded to recipients. Awards are available for only undergraduate study at public institutions in Alabama
Scholarships Opportunities:
- Minority Doctoral Scholarship Program - The goal of the Doctoral Scholars Program is to increase the number of minority students who earn doctorates and choose to become faculty at colleges and universities.
State Loans Opportunities:
- Alabama Math and Science Teacher Education Program (AMSTEP) - AMSTEP is a federal student loan repayment program designed to encourage individuals to enroll in and complete programs leading to Alabama certification in mathematics or science; and to improve the educational system in Alabama by encouraging those who complete the program to accept math or science teaching positions in Alabama public schools, preferably in public school systems where the shortage of math or science teachers, or both, is most acute
Institutional Scholarships
Colleges provide institutional grants and scholarships to help make up the difference between college costs and what a family can be expected to contribute through income, savings, loans, and student earnings. Awards may be based on academic merit, artistic or athletic talent, financial need, or other factors. You can learn more about the types of institutional grants and scholarships awarded by checking each college's financial aid website.
Private Scholarships
Private scholarships provide funding for students who meet the requirements specified by the donor organization. Local organizations or businesses may offer scholarships to students who plan to study at a regional college or plan to pursue a degree in a particular field of study.
Check with your High School Guidance Counselor office for details about local and regional scholarships.
Contact:
Alabama Commission on Higher Education
100 North Union Street, Suite 782
Montgomery, AL 36104-3758
P: 334- 242-1998
F: 334- 242-2269
