Governor’s Scholarship Program (UNIQUE)

New Hampshire’s Governor’s Scholarship, historically associated with the UNIQUE name, is state aid for postsecondary study. It is distinct from New Hampshire Promise, announced for new cohorts beginning in fall 2027. State law includes residents who meet educational and Pell requirements, plus specific categories involving family dependency, military service, or long-term residency. The commission sets academic standards and the annual process.

Eligibility is not based on residency alone: rules address graduation or equivalency, residency, an eligible institution, and enrollment in a certificate or degree. The college must confirm participation and the student’s current qualifications. Because funding depends on annual budget decisions and allocations, a historical amount does not guarantee what an individual will receive in 2026–27.

Start with financial aid at a participating college. Ask whether the campus handles applications, which FAFSA or documents your eligibility category needs, and whether the cycle still has funds for new awards. Request a written explanation of eligible charges and how the scholarship coordinates with Pell. State law explains who may qualify; the college confirms current availability and your balance.

Who it serves and what it can cover: New Hampshire’s Governor’s Scholarship, historically associated with the UNIQUE name, is state aid for postsecondary study. It is distinct from New Hampshire Promise, announced for new cohorts beginning in fall 2027. State law includes residents who meet educational and Pell requirements, plus specific categories involving family dependency, military service, or long-term residency. The commission sets academic standards and the annual process. Eligibility is not based on residency alone: rules address graduation or equivalency, residency, an eligible institution, and enrollment in a certificate or degree. The college must confirm participation and the student’s current qualifications. Because funding depends on annual budget decisions and allocations, a historical amount does not guarantee what an individual will receive in 2026–27.

How to apply or get help: Start with financial aid at a participating college. Ask whether the campus handles applications, which FAFSA or documents your eligibility category needs, and whether the cycle still has funds for new awards. Request a written explanation of eligible charges and how the scholarship coordinates with Pell. State law explains who may qualify; the college confirms current availability and your balance. For case-specific questions, contact the program or financial-aid office named on its official page.

Official application and program information