Bill > HB394

This bill establishes the Student Choice Grant Program, which will provide financial assistance to eligible Ohio students pursuing bachelor's degrees at nonprofit Ohio institutions of higher education. To qualify, students must be Ohio residents for at least two years, enrolled full-time in a bachelor's degree program, and maintain an academic standard set by the Chancellor of Higher Education. The grant will cover the lesser of the institution's total instructional and general charges or a calculated amount based on state university subsidies. Importantly, students who were enrolled in higher education before July 1, 2026, or are currently serving a prison term are not eligible. The grant will be paid directly to the institution, which must reduce the student's charges accordingly, and students can receive the grant for a maximum of ten semesters or five academic years. The bill appropriates $95 million for fiscal year 2027 to fund the program, and grants will not affect a student's eligibility for other state financial assistance. The program excludes grants for students studying theology or religious professions unless the degree is an accredited bachelor of arts or science. Institutions must report student eligibility changes to the Chancellor, and any refunds must be made within thirty days with an additional 1% monthly interest charge.

Education

https://www.legislature.ohio.gov/legislation/136/hb394