Educators for Maine Program
Educators for Maine is not a grant with no repayment obligation: FAME describes it as a private loan that may be forgiven if the recipient works in an eligible Maine position. It serves residents preparing for initial certification as teachers, speech-language pathologists, school counselors, or child-care professionals. The program reviews academics, essays, and experience, and gives preference to certain shortage subjects and areas.
About Educators for Maine Program
Educators for Maine is not a grant with no repayment obligation: FAME describes it as a private loan that may be forgiven if the recipient works in an eligible Maine position. It serves residents preparing for initial certification as teachers, speech-language pathologists, school counselors, or child-care professionals. The program reviews academics, essays, and experience, and gives preference to certain shortage subjects and areas.
For 2026–27, FAME lists loans of $5,000 for undergraduate students and $4,000 for graduate students, subject to annual change. Applicants need Maine residency, a 3.0 cumulative GPA, and admission to postsecondary study; undergraduates enroll full time and graduate students at least half time. Renewal may continue for eight undergraduate semesters or four graduate-equivalent semesters, with a 2.5 GPA minimum and annual reapplication.
The 2026–27 cycle is no longer accepting applications; its deadline was May 1, 2026, with the FAFSA due by the same date. FAME says applications open in February each year, so the next opening should be confirmed when the new form is posted. Applicants need essays, transcripts, and school records, and should review the loan disclosure and promissory note before signing.
Forgiveness requires certification and employment at a school or child-care facility meeting program rules. FAME may forgive one loan year for each eligible year of service; shortage areas or subjects may have different terms, which should be checked in the guidelines. Without qualifying service, the balance is repaid at the rate in the promissory note; the page currently lists 5% for new loans. Request the approved-employer list before choosing a career path.
Ask financial aid for a term-by-term estimate separating tuition, fees, housing, and other expenses. Keep the award decision, any service or loan agreement, and renewal records. If your studies, residence, or employment change, contact the administrator before making a decision that could affect the aid.
College scholarship and financial-aid program