Maine State Grant Program
Finance Authority of Maine (FAME)
Up to $2,500 a year for Maine undergraduates with financial need, awarded automatically from the FAFSA.
- How much
- up to $2,500 per year (2026-27); up to $1,250 for half-time to less-than-full-time students
- Who qualifies
- Maine resident; at least half-time in a first undergraduate certificate, associate or bachelor's program at an eligible Maine school (or a NEBHE Tuition Break program). SAI at or below 10,000 for 2026-27 (maximum SAI may be adjusted based on funding).
- For students starting college, undergrads
- Need-based: your FAFSA decides how much you get.
- When to apply
- Apply any time FAFSA-driven; FAME's page does not state a 2026-27 FAFSA deadline (the 2025-26 deadline was extended to July 31, 2025). File early each year.
- How to apply
- File the FAFSA for the year you will attend
- No other forms
- Your college reviews your enrollment status and SAI and includes the grant in your aid offer if you qualify
- What you'll need
- FAFSA only
- Last checked
- October 5, 2026, against the official page (famemaine.com)
The details
Maine's need-based grant for undergraduates of all ages. For 2026-27 the maximum award is $2,500; students enrolled less than full time but at least half time may receive up to $1,250. Must be enrolled at least half time in a program leading to an initial undergraduate certificate, associate or bachelor's degree at a Maine public or private college, university or technical school that administers federal aid. Maine residents attending school out of state are not eligible, except that students in NEBHE's Tuition Break (New England Regional Student Program) may qualify. The student's Student Aid Index (SAI) must not exceed the year's maximum (10,000 for 2026-27). The college determines eligibility and the grant is paid to the school. Must file the FAFSA every year.
More money from Maine
- Doctors for Maine's Future Scholarshipup to 50% of cost of attendance or $25,000 per year, whichever is less
- Competitive Skills Scholarship Program (CSSP)up to $10,000 per year full time; up to $5,000 per year part time
- Maine Free College Scholarship (Maine Community College System)100% of tuition after federal and state grants (class of 2026+); 100% of tuition and mandatory fees (2024 and 2025 graduates)
Keep looking
- Answer a few questions to see every program you qualify for
- Nearby states: New Hampshire
- Federal aid and national scholarships (open to students in any state)
- The FAFSA in plain English (2027-28)
- Should I file the FAFSA if I don't think I'll qualify?
- FAFSA deadlines by state (2027-28)
- The FAFSA for parents: what you need to do
- How to save on textbooks: free, rented and cheaper options
We list programs; we don't decide who gets them. Always check the official page before you apply. Spot something wrong? Tell us.