Maine State Grant

The Maine State Grant is a need-based grant for Maine undergraduates of any age. For 2026-27 the maximum award is $2,500 for full-time students, and students enrolled at least half time but less than full time can receive up to $1,250. Eligibility is based on the Student Aid Index, which must not exceed the yearly limit; for 2026-27 that limit is 10,000, though FAME may adjust it depending on funding. Students must be working toward a first undergraduate certificate, associate degree or bachelor's degree at a Maine public or private university, college or technical school that administers federal financial aid. Maine residents who attend college in another state generally cannot use the grant, with a possible exception for students in the New England Regional Student Program, also called Tuition Break. The FAFSA serves as the application, and the school confirms enrollment and SAI before including the grant in the aid offer. Funds go directly to the college, and students must file the FAFSA every year.