Okay guys, I need some serious help. I'm a senior in high school (class of 2026!) and I've been hearing about the georgia lottery scholarships forever, but now that I'm actually applying to colleges, I'm realizing I have NO idea how this works. 
My counselor tried to explain it but she's so busy and I left more confused than when I walked in. From what I understand, the lottery funds two main scholarships: HOPE and Zell Miller . But what's the actual difference? Everyone keeps saying Zell is "better" but like... how much better?
I checked my HOPE GPA on GAfutures (thank goodness someone told me to do that!) and it says I have a 3.6 core GPA. My actual school GPA is higher but I guess that doesn't matter? I read that HOPE GPA is calculated differently—only core subjects count (English, math, science, social studies, world languages) and they don't round . So a 2.99 is NOT a 3.0. That's so harsh!
For Zell Miller, I know you need a 3.7 HOPE GPA AND either a 1200 SAT or 26 ACT from one test sitting . I have the GPA but my SAT is 1180. SO CLOSE.
I'm planning to retake it in March but I'm stressed. My friend said valedictorians and salutatorians automatically qualify for Zell without test scores but I'm not either of those.
I'm applying to UGA and Georgia State. Can someone explain what each scholarship actually COVERS? Like, is it full tuition? Partial? Does it cover fees? My mom keeps asking me and I don't have answers.
Also, I submitted my FAFSA already—does that automatically apply me for both? One website said FAFSA counts as applying for HOPE/Zell . Is that true? I don't want to miss any deadlines!
Any help would be amazing. This whole process is overwhelming and I just want to make sure I don't leave money on the table. Thanks in advance!
My counselor tried to explain it but she's so busy and I left more confused than when I walked in. From what I understand, the lottery funds two main scholarships: HOPE and Zell Miller . But what's the actual difference? Everyone keeps saying Zell is "better" but like... how much better?
I checked my HOPE GPA on GAfutures (thank goodness someone told me to do that!) and it says I have a 3.6 core GPA. My actual school GPA is higher but I guess that doesn't matter? I read that HOPE GPA is calculated differently—only core subjects count (English, math, science, social studies, world languages) and they don't round . So a 2.99 is NOT a 3.0. That's so harsh!
For Zell Miller, I know you need a 3.7 HOPE GPA AND either a 1200 SAT or 26 ACT from one test sitting . I have the GPA but my SAT is 1180. SO CLOSE.
I'm planning to retake it in March but I'm stressed. My friend said valedictorians and salutatorians automatically qualify for Zell without test scores but I'm not either of those.I'm applying to UGA and Georgia State. Can someone explain what each scholarship actually COVERS? Like, is it full tuition? Partial? Does it cover fees? My mom keeps asking me and I don't have answers.
Also, I submitted my FAFSA already—does that automatically apply me for both? One website said FAFSA counts as applying for HOPE/Zell . Is that true? I don't want to miss any deadlines!
Any help would be amazing. This whole process is overwhelming and I just want to make sure I don't leave money on the table. Thanks in advance!