Augusta University Awards 69 Students DREAMS

Augusta University has awarded 69 students the new DREAMS Scholarship, a statewide, need-based program introduced this year by Georgia Governor Brian P. Kemp. The scholarship is supported by a $325 million state budget allocation and provides eligible undergraduates with up to $3,000 per year to help cover costs.

Governor Kemp stated the program aims to level the playing field. He said earlier this year that he believes we owe it to every child to ensure they start out on a level playing field, no matter their zip code. He added that the endowment would create opportunities for generational economic advancement.

Program Overview and Eligibility

The DREAMS Scholarship Program is Georgia's first statewide, need-based scholarship for students attending a college or university in the University System of Georgia or Technical College System of Georgia. Augusta University President Russell T. Keen said the scholarship represents another valuable resource aimed at reducing barriers to enrollment and degree completion.

To be considered, Augusta University students had to meet specific eligibility requirements set by the Georgia Student Finance Commission. These included being a Georgia resident, being eligible for a Federal Pell Grant, meeting applicable GPA requirements, completing the FAFSA, and maintaining at least half-time enrollment status, defined as six semester hours.

Overwhelming Student Response

The launch of the scholarship at Augusta University generated significant interest. Kyle Parsons, director of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships at AU, reported an overwhelming response. He said that within just one week of opening the DREAMS application, 444 students applied, representing approximately six times the number of students AU had funding available to support with its initial awards.

Since the number of eligible applicants far exceeded the available funding, the university developed a review process to prioritize recipients. Consideration factors included demonstrated financial hardship, enrollment level, progress toward degree completion, full-time enrollment status, and the student's ability to fulfill the program's required work or service requirement.

Award Details and Requirements

The 69 selected students may receive up to $3,000 for the academic year. To maintain eligibility for scholarship disbursements, recipients must complete the DREAMS financial literacy requirement and fulfill required work or service hours. The initial selection and notification of applicants have been completed.

Parsons emphasized the response highlights a critical need. He stated that the tremendous response demonstrates both the level of student interest in DREAMS and the need for additional financial resources that help Georgia students persist toward graduation.

Broader Financial Context

The need for such support is highlighted by national data. More than half of college students in the country report they would struggle to find $500 in an emergency. Data from the National Institute for Student Success also indicates that students who avoid financial setbacks during college are three-and-a-half-times more likely to graduate.

In the 2025 fiscal year, Augusta University awarded a total of $64,227,435 in scholarships, grants, and loans to undergraduate students. Nearly 53% of those students received either the HOPE or Zell Miller grants.