Ohio Second Chance Grant

Leaving college does not always mean giving up on a degree. Ohio’s Second Chance Grant supports residents with prior credits who stopped out and want to finish a credential. The grant can reach $3,000 and is applied to cost of attendance after federal and state need-based grants. The college must participate and publish an approved cost of attendance.

Applicants must be Ohio residents without a bachelor’s degree, have stopped out of an eligible institution, and not transferred elsewhere during the following two terms or eight months. They must return within five years, have been in good academic standing, and not have left after suspension or expulsion. Associate degree holders may qualify if pursuing a bachelor’s.

Students must file FAFSA, accept eligible federal and state need-based aid, and pursue a credential beyond what they already hold. A prior certificate may allow associate or bachelor’s study; someone with an associate must pursue a bachelor’s. The grant cannot be combined with certain state awards such as Choose Ohio First, War Orphans, National Guard, or Safety Officers.

Awards are offered first-come, first-served from limited funds; the college’s re-enrollment office can review the balance, returner aid, and old debts. Contact the school before enrolling to verify participation, dates, standing, and whether remaining tuition fits your plan. The grant is for education costs, not unrestricted family expenses.

Who it serves and what it can cover: Leaving college does not always mean giving up on a degree. Ohio’s Second Chance Grant supports residents with prior credits who stopped out and want to finish a credential. The grant can reach $3,000 and is applied to cost of attendance after federal and state need-based grants. The college must participate and publish an approved cost of attendance. Applicants must be Ohio residents without a bachelor’s degree, have stopped out of an eligible institution, and not transferred elsewhere during the following two terms or eight months. They must return within five years, have been in good academic standing, and not have left after suspension or expulsion. Associate degree holders may qualify if pursuing a bachelor’s.

How to apply or get help: Students must file FAFSA, accept eligible federal and state need-based aid, and pursue a credential beyond what they already hold. A prior certificate may allow associate or bachelor’s study; someone with an associate must pursue a bachelor’s. The grant cannot be combined with certain state awards such as Choose Ohio First, War Orphans, National Guard, or Safety Officers. For case-specific questions, contact the program or financial-aid office named on its official page.

Official application and program information