PROMISE Scholarship

PROMISE is a merit-based West Virginia scholarship, separate from the need-based Higher Education Grant. For 2026–27, the state commission listed awards up to $5,500; that cap is not a general stipend for every applicant or a guarantee to cover all college costs. Funds apply to eligible tuition and fees at a participating institution and depend on meeting academic and program rules.

For the class of 2027, CFWV lists March 1, 2027, as the deadline for the application and FAFSA. Requirements include residency, a high-school course sequence, minimum GPA, and test-score criteria that depend on the accepted combination for the cohort. Official criteria can change by graduating class; use the “How It Works” page for your year rather than copying an older brochure’s scores.

SAT or ACT scores may meet the testing requirement when they reach the thresholds published for the relevant class; the commission also sets how scores must be sent and which alternatives are accepted. Apply early enough for testing agencies to deliver scores before the deadline. If a school sends the transcript, confirm receipt, and do not confuse college admission with the PROMISE application.

The award may renew during college when students maintain the required college GPA, credit load, and annual renewal steps. State law limits total duration and defines eligible institutions and programs; a break in enrollment, course withdrawal, or transfer can affect payment. Before changing campuses, ask the commission and both financial-aid offices to confirm continuity in writing.

PROMISE is merit-based, while the West Virginia Higher Education Grant evaluates financial need and follows a different timeline. A February 2026 state notice listed a PROMISE cap of $5,500 for that cycle and a separate April deadline for HEGP; they do not share the same eligibility rules. Students with a larger gap should complete FAFSA and explore both programs, plus campus scholarships, if eligible.

Applications start through CFWV, which provides guidance on PROMISE and other state aid. Before submitting, verify residency, graduation year, courses, GPA, test scores, FAFSA, and outstanding documents in the applicant dashboard. After enrolling, review the official award letter and student-billing account to see when the award posts and what balance remains the family’s responsibility.

Ask the financial-aid office for a written term-by-term estimate separating tuition, fees, housing, books, and other costs. Keep the award letter, records, and any service agreement. If your studies, residence, or course load change, contact the administrator before that decision affects your aid.

Official program information and application