This scholarship is for Maine's nontraditional students who want to change their life for the better through education and training. The scholarship supports a range of training, including attending two- and four-year colleges and universities, completing a certificate and other non-degree programs, or attempting a self-directed learning experience with a clear goal.

Long-term scholarship award

Applicants are eligible for a long-term award if the program meets the following criteria:

The program will last more than a full semester

At the end of the program the applicant will have a one- or two-year certificate or a two- or four-year degree

The applicant may need to renew the award to finish the program

Graduate study is not supported by this scholarship.

Deadlines are June 15 and Nov. 15. Late applications will not be accepted. Decisions will be made within six weeks. Please allow ample time before your program begins when you apply.

Additionally, please review the following details about the long-term scholarship award:

The size of the award will depend on the individual need, but most awards will be between $1,000-$2,500 per semester.

The award size is based on whether an individual pursues full- or part-time study. Full-time awards will be reduced if a student changes to part-time study.

Beginning in 2024, recipients may apply for renewal for a maximum of 5 years or 10 semesters of scholarship support. Current recipients who have already reached this maximum will be offered a grace period of one year (up to two semesters).

The committee has a preference for applicants who have not previously attained a Bachelor’s degree.

• You must be a Maine resident. To be defined as a “nontraditional student,” you must also meet ONLY ONE of the following criteria:
• be over the age of 25 or
• work full time (35 hours/week or more) while enrolled or
• have dependents other than a spouse or
• be financially independent from parents and/or considered independent for FAFSA purposes or
• have not received a standard high school diploma (completed with a GED, HiSET, or certificate of completion) or
• have delayed enrollment in college after high school for a reason other than a gap-year activity.
• Applicants may be enrolled full time or part time.
• We encourage all applicants to use some kind of college preparation course or advising before applying for the scholarship and entering school. Such programs could include but are not limited to:
• Attending Maine College Transitions through Adult Education
• Participating in Maine Educational Opportunity Center workshops and advising
• Completing New Ventures Maine’s My Next Career Move program
• Working with a Finance Authority of Maine College Access Counselor
• Working with a Maine Career Center advisor
• Participating in an educational program during incarceration, release, or reentry.
• When they make decisions, the scholarship committee will be looking for financial need, appropriate preparation for the program of study, a solid goal and plan, and a commitment to stay in Maine. Applicants must have completed the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) if they are eligible to do so.
• Important:
• Unless the application is for a self-directed learning experience, all programs must be accredited by a nationally recognized accreditation agency
• If you plan to attend a for-profit institution, please explain in your application why this is the right choice for you.