College can cost tens of thousands of dollars, but one way students can cut down on this expense is to apply to state grants. The state of Utah actually offers several grants, scholarships, and programs that can make college more affordable for its students. Here are some state grants for Utah students that you need to know.
Utah State Grants
1. Opportunity Scholarship
The Opportunity Scholarship is an academic award in Utah that is designed for high school seniors who are taking advanced courses. The amount can change from year to year, but in 2023, the maximum amount was $1,000 per semester. The award is also renewable for up to 4 semesters as long as the student maintains eligibility.
In order to apply, students must:
- Be attending a participating college or university in Utah
- Meet academic requirements
- Be taking eligible courses for the program such as AP English Language, AP Calculus AB, and others
- Complete the Free Application for Financial Student Aid (FAFSA)
- Submit a transcript if attending a private high school
2. Talent Development Grant Program
For students attending a public college or university in Utah and enrolling in a high demand area of study, there is the Talent Development Grant Program. Award amounts can vary, but it can be put towards tuition as well as any related fees and book costs.
To qualify, students must:
- Declare their intent to work in a qualifying job in Utah after college graduation
- Apply for a qualifying program and degree
- Complete the FAFSA
- Contact their college’s financial aid office for the application process
3. Terrel H. Bell Scholarship
Also known as the T.H. Bell Education Scholarship Program, this award is for first-generation students who are interested in teaching. It is a renewable program (up to 4 consecutive years) and can cover tuition, book costs, and fees.
Recent high school graduates and adults are invited to apply through their college’s financial aid department.
4. Utah Promise Grant
The Utah Promise Grant is for high school graduates and adult learners who need financial assistance in order to attend college. A “last dollar scholarship,” it will cover up to two years at least at a participating college.
Students should meet the following criteria in order to apply:
- Be a resident of Utah
- Demonstrate financial need
- Complete the FAFSA
- Accept all other financial aid sources
- Complete and meet school specific application requirements
5. And More
Other programs, scholarships, and grants students should note in Utah include:
- Public Safety Officer Career Advancement Reimbursement (PSOCAR) Program
- Technical Education Scholarship
- WICHE Professional Student Exchange Program (PSEP)
- Veterans Tuition Gap Program (VeT Gap)
- USHE Employee Scholarship
- Talent Development Incentive Loan Program
- Prime Program Grant
- Adult Learner Grant Program
- International Internship Scholarship Pilot Program
- First Responder Mental Health Services Grant
- Karen Mayne Public Safety Officer Scholarship Program
- NASA Space Grant Scholarship
Where Can You Find More Information on Utah State Grants?
Students interested in applying for these grants and scholarships or learning about additional programs through the state of Utah should head over to the Utah System of Higher Education website. There students can discover more information about eligibility, attending college in Utah, and additional details that can improve the college experience.
However, it is important to note that most of the grants and scholarships in Utah require students to apply through their college’s financial aid department. If you have any questions about applying or your eligibility, be sure to contact your school as soon as possible.
Not a resident of Utah? Check out the state grants for your state of residence.
If you don’t qualify for any of these state grants for Utah college students, don’t worry! There are thousands of other scholarships and awards you might be eligible for! We make them easy to find them, too – use our free Scholarship Search tool today.
| Lender | Rates (APR) | Eligibility | |
|---|---|---|---|
 |
6.97%-15.03%* Variable
5.99%-14.00%* Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT CITIZENS |
 |
6.37% - 16.70% Variable
4.50% - 15.49% Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT SALLIE MAE |
|
|
4.98% - 16.70% Variable
4.07% - 15.66% Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT CREDIBLE |
 |
6.07% - 11.31% Variable
4.39% - 10.39% Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT LENDKEY |
 |
6.22% - 16.08% Variable
4.09% - 15.66% Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT ASCENT |
 |
6.54% - 11.08% Variable
3.95% - 8.01% Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT ISL |
 |
5.62% - 18.26% Variable
4.11% - 15.90% Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT EARNEST |
 |
4.98% - 12.79% Variable
8.42% - 13.01% Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT ELFI |
