HOPE- Higher Opportunity for Pathways to Employment

The Higher Opportunity for Pathways to Employment (HOPE) Program is committed to helping you reach your educational goals by helping cover costs related to school. Whether you are seeking a short-term training certificate, or an associate or bachelor's degree, the HOPE Program has the tools and resources to help you.

You might be eligible for the HOPE Program if you:

• Are a parent or caretaker relative of a minor child who is living with you.
• Are a Maine resident between the ages of 16 through 64.
• Meet the financial qualifications. See below to see what this means for you.
• Have been accepted to or are enrolled at least half-time in a qualifying training or education program beyond high school. If you are enrolled less than half-time, the HOPE Program needs to approve this.
• Are not currently receiving, or someone in your family unit is not currently receiving, a monthly TANF or PaS cash benefit.
• Are a U.S. citizen or eligible non-U.S. citizen. Many non-citizens are eligible.
• Do not already have a marketable bachelor's degree.
• Are making satisfactory progress in your training or education program (based on your school's standards) and you are on track to graduate.

If you fit the description above, you may be eligible and want to apply. If you are unsure if you are eligible, you should contact us to find out more. We are happy to help.