If you’re a resident of Louisiana and a prospective college student, you may have come across the acronym TOPS while researching financial aid options. But what exactly does TOPS stand for, and how can it help you pay for your education? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into the world of Louisiana’s Tuition Award Program, exploring its history, eligibility requirements, and benefits. Whether you’re a high school senior or a current college student, this guide will provide you with all the information you need to know about TOPS and how to take advantage of this valuable resource. So, let’s get started and discover what TOPS can do for you!
What is TOPS?
Eligibility Criteria
Residency Requirements
To be eligible for TOPS, a student must be a resident of the state of Louisiana. This means that the student must have resided in Louisiana for at least 12 months prior to the start of the academic year in which they are applying for TOPS. Students who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents are not eligible for TOPS.
High School Performance
To be eligible for TOPS, a student must have graduated from a Louisiana high school or have completed a Louisiana Home Study program. The student must also have earned a minimum of a 2.50 grade point average (GPA) on a 4.00 scale. Students who have graduated from a non-Louisiana high school may be eligible for TOPS if they meet certain additional requirements.
ACT/SAT Scores
To be eligible for TOPS, a student must have taken the ACT or SAT and achieved a minimum score. The minimum scores required for TOPS eligibility are subject to change and are determined by the Louisiana Legislature. For the 2022-2023 academic year, the minimum ACT score required for TOPS eligibility is 21, and the minimum SAT score required is 1080 (math and reading combined).
Grade Point Average (GPA)
To be eligible for TOPS, a student must have earned a minimum of a 2.50 GPA on a 4.00 scale. This GPA requirement must be met in at least one of the following ways:
- The student must have earned a minimum of a 2.50 GPA on a 4.00 scale at the end of the academic year immediately prior to the academic year in which they are applying for TOPS.
- The student must have earned a minimum of a 2.50 GPA on a 4.00 scale at the end of the semester immediately prior to the semester in which they are applying for TOPS.
- The student must have earned a minimum of a 2.50 GPA on a 4.00 scale at the end of the quarter immediately prior to the quarter in which they are applying for TOPS.
Course Requirements
To be eligible for TOPS, a student must have completed certain course requirements. These requirements include:
- Four units of English/Language Arts
- Three units of Math
- Three units of Social Studies
- Three units of Science
- One unit of Foreign Language
- One unit of Fine Arts
- One unit of Physical Education/Health
It is important to note that these course requirements may vary depending on the student’s high school graduation year.
Types of TOPS Awards
TOPS (Taylor Opportunity Program for Students) is a state-funded program that provides financial assistance to eligible students in Louisiana. The program is designed to help students who are pursuing post-secondary education in Louisiana, and it covers tuition and fees at eligible institutions. There are four types of TOPS awards available to students, each with its own set of eligibility requirements and benefits.
TOPS Award
The TOPS Award is the most common type of TOPS award and is available to students who meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Be a Louisiana resident
- Be a graduate of a Louisiana high school or have completed a GED in Louisiana
- Have a minimum ACT score of 20 or SAT score of 950 (sum of critical reading and math scores)
- Be enrolled in a baccalaureate degree program at an eligible Louisiana institution
The TOPS Award provides a flat rate tuition and fee coverage of up to $3,000 per year for up to four years. This award is renewable for up to four years, as long as the student maintains a minimum 2.0 GPA and completes 24 credit hours per academic year.
TOPS Tech Award
The TOPS Tech Award is available to students who meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Be enrolled in a associate degree or technical diploma program at an eligible Louisiana institution
The TOPS Tech Award provides a flat rate tuition and fee coverage of up to $1,500 per year for up to two years. This award is renewable for up to two years, as long as the student maintains a minimum 2.0 GPA and completes 24 credit hours per academic year.
TOPS Opportunity Award
The TOPS Opportunity Award is available to students who meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Have a minimum ACT score of 17 or SAT score of 850 (sum of critical reading and math scores)
- Be enrolled in a associate degree program at an eligible Louisiana institution
The TOPS Opportunity Award provides a flat rate tuition and fee coverage of up to $1,000 per year for up to two years. This award is renewable for up to two years, as long as the student maintains a minimum 2.0 GPA and completes 24 credit hours per academic year.
TOPS Honors Award
The TOPS Honors Award is available to students who meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Have a minimum ACT score of 23 or SAT score of 1150 (sum of critical reading and math scores)
- Be enrolled in a honors program or have a minimum 3.0 GPA
The TOPS Honors Award provides a flat rate tuition and fee coverage of up to $4,000 per year for up to four years. This award is renewable for up to four years, as long as the student maintains a minimum 3.0 GPA and completes 24 credit hours per academic year.
It is important to note that eligibility requirements may change, and students should check the TOPS website for the most up-to-date information on eligibility requirements and award amounts.
How to Apply for TOPS
Step-by-Step Guide
Applying for TOPS in Louisiana is a straightforward process that requires attention to detail. To apply for TOPS, follow these five steps:
- Check Eligibility
The first step in applying for TOPS is to check your eligibility. TOPS has specific eligibility requirements that must be met to qualify for the program. To check your eligibility, you can visit the TOPS website and use the eligibility checker tool. The tool will ask for information such as your high school graduation date, ACT or SAT scores, and college choices. - Create a START account
Once you have determined your eligibility, the next step is to create a START account. START is the Louisiana Student Transfer Application and Release Transcript system, and it is used to apply for TOPS and other financial aid programs in Louisiana. To create a START account, you will need to provide personal information such as your name, address, and social security number. - Complete the TOPS application
After creating a START account, you can begin completing the TOPS application. The application will ask for information such as your high school transcript, ACT or SAT scores, and college choices. It is important to answer all questions truthfully and accurately to avoid any delays in the application process. - Submit the application and required documents
Once you have completed the TOPS application, you will need to submit it along with any required documents. These documents may include your high school transcript, ACT or SAT scores, and proof of residency. You can submit these documents online through the START account or by mail. - Wait for notification
After submitting your application and required documents, you will need to wait for notification from TOPS. TOPS will review your application and notify you of your eligibility status. If you are eligible, you will receive information about the amount of tuition you will receive and how to use the award. If you are not eligible, you will receive information about why you were not approved and what you can do to improve your eligibility for future awards.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Meet deadlines
- The TOPS application deadline is usually in the summer prior to the academic year for which the award is sought. It is important to check the specific deadline each year as it may vary.
- Late or incomplete applications will not be considered, so it is important to submit the application on time and ensure that all required information is included.
- Provide complete and accurate information
- All sections of the application must be completed in full and accurately.
- Incorrect or incomplete information may result in the rejection of the application or the revocation of the award if it is later discovered.
- Double-check your work
- Before submitting the application, it is important to review it carefully to ensure that all information is accurate and complete.
- It is also a good idea to have someone else review the application to catch any errors or omissions that may have been missed.
- Keep copies of all documents
- It is important to keep copies of all documents submitted with the application, including test scores, transcripts, and any other supporting materials.
- These copies should be kept in a safe place and easily accessible in case they are needed later.
Understanding TOPS Payments
Duration of Award
The duration of a TOPS award is typically four or five years, depending on the type of award that the student receives. Students who receive a TOPS Opportunity Award, which is the most common type of award, will receive the award for four years as long as they meet the renewal requirements. Students who receive a TOPS Performance Award or a TOPS Honors Award will receive the award for five years.
It is important to note that the duration of the award may be shorter if the student does not meet the renewal requirements or if the student chooses to attend a less expensive institution. Additionally, students who receive a TOPS award may be eligible for additional semesters if they are enrolled in a program that requires more than four years to complete, such as a five-year architecture program or a six-year medical degree program.
In order to receive the full duration of the award, students must meet the renewal requirements each year, which include maintaining a minimum GPA, completing the required number of credit hours, and meeting the attendance requirements. Failure to meet these requirements may result in the student losing their eligibility for the award.
It is also important to note that the duration of the award may be affected by changes in the TOPS program, such as changes to the renewal requirements or changes to the types of awards offered. Therefore, it is important for students to stay informed about any changes to the program and to carefully review the program guidelines each year to ensure that they are meeting the requirements for renewal.
Disbursement Schedule
TOPS payments are disbursed in two semesters: fall and spring. The disbursement schedule is as follows:
- For the fall semester, payments are disbursed in two installments. The first installment is disbursed at the beginning of the semester, and the second installment is disbursed mid-way through the semester.
- For the spring semester, payments are disbursed in two installments. The first installment is disbursed at the beginning of the semester, and the second installment is disbursed mid-way through the semester.
It is important to note that the maximum annual amount for TOPS payments is $4,000. This amount is divided into two equal payments for each semester, resulting in a maximum payment of $2,000 per semester. The exact amount of the payment will depend on the specific TOPS program and the tuition and fees at the institution attended by the student.
Conditions for Continued Eligibility
In order to maintain eligibility for TOPS payments, students must meet certain conditions throughout their academic career. These conditions are put in place to ensure that students are making progress towards completing their degree program and are using TOPS funds efficiently. The following are the conditions for continued eligibility:
- Maintain a minimum GPA: Students must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale to remain eligible for TOPS payments. This GPA requirement is designed to ensure that students are academically qualified and are making progress towards completing their degree program. If a student’s GPA falls below 2.0, they may become ineligible for TOPS payments until they are able to raise their GPA back above the minimum requirement.
- Complete courses for degree program: To remain eligible for TOPS payments, students must be enrolled in courses that are applicable to their degree program. This means that students must be taking courses that are required for their major or that are approved as electives for their degree program. If a student is not enrolled in courses that are applicable to their degree program, they may become ineligible for TOPS payments.
- Not exceed maximum credit hours: Students must not exceed the maximum credit hours allowed for their degree program in order to remain eligible for TOPS payments. The maximum credit hours vary depending on the degree program and are determined by the Louisiana Board of Regents. If a student exceeds the maximum credit hours allowed for their degree program, they may become ineligible for TOPS payments until they are able to bring their credit hour total back below the maximum limit.
It is important for students to understand these conditions for continued eligibility in order to ensure that they remain eligible for TOPS payments throughout their academic career. By meeting these conditions, students can continue to receive TOPS payments and avoid any potential interruptions in their academic progress.
Consequences of Breaking Rules
- Loss of award:
- Failure to meet the academic requirements can result in the loss of the TOPS award. This includes not maintaining a minimum GPA or not completing the required number of credit hours per semester.
- Failure to comply with the code of conduct or any other rules and regulations set forth by the participating institution can also result in the loss of the award.
- Repayment of funds:
- If a student loses their TOPS award due to breaking the rules, they may be required to repay all or a portion of the funds received.
- This repayment is usually done on a pro-rata basis, meaning that the amount to be repaid is proportional to the amount of funds received.
- It is important to note that failure to repay the funds may result in legal action, including the garnishing of wages or the placement of a lien on property.
Alternatives to TOPS
Scholarships
When it comes to financing higher education, scholarships can be a great alternative to TOPS. Scholarships are a form of gift aid that does not have to be repaid, and they can come from a variety of sources. Here are some types of scholarships that students in Louisiana may consider:
- Private scholarships: These are scholarships that are awarded by private organizations, such as non-profits, businesses, and individuals. Private scholarships can be merit-based or need-based, and they can cover a range of educational expenses, including tuition, books, and room and board.
- Institutional scholarships: Many colleges and universities in Louisiana offer their own scholarships to students. These scholarships may be need-based or merit-based, and they can be renewed each year as long as the student meets the eligibility requirements. Institutional scholarships can range from a few hundred dollars to full tuition and fees.
- State-specific scholarships: In addition to TOPS, Louisiana offers a number of other scholarship programs for students. These programs may be need-based or merit-based, and they may be offered by the state or by private organizations that work with the state. Some examples of state-specific scholarships in Louisiana include the Louisiana GO Grant, the Louisiana Student Assistance Commission Scholarship, and the Louisiana Board of Regents Scholarship.
Overall, scholarships can be a great way for Louisiana students to finance their higher education. By exploring all of the options available, students can find scholarships that meet their needs and help them achieve their educational goals.
Federal Student Aid
For students who may not qualify for TOPS or who are seeking additional financial aid options, there are several federal student aid programs available. These programs are administered by the U.S. Department of Education and are designed to help students pay for college expenses.
Pell Grants
Pell Grants are a type of federal student aid that does not need to be repaid. These grants are awarded to undergraduate students who have not earned a bachelor’s degree and who demonstrate financial need. The amount of the grant varies based on the student’s expected family contribution, the cost of attendance, and the student’s enrollment status.
Direct Subsidized Loans
Direct Subsidized Loans are federal loans that are available to undergraduate students who demonstrate financial need. The U.S. Department of Education pays the interest on these loans while the student is in school, during the grace period, and during any periods of deferment.
Direct Unsubsidized Loans
Direct Unsubsidized Loans are federal loans that are available to undergraduate and graduate students, as well as to parents of dependent undergraduate students. These loans are not based on financial need, and the borrower is responsible for paying the interest on the loan.
Direct PLUS Loans
Direct PLUS Loans are federal loans that are available to graduate students and parents of dependent undergraduate students. These loans are not based on financial need, and the borrower is responsible for paying the interest on the loan. PLUS Loans are designed to help cover the costs of education that are not covered by other financial aid.
Employment
For students who may not qualify for TOPS or who are looking for additional ways to finance their education, employment can be a viable alternative. Here are some options to consider:
- Part-time jobs: Many colleges and universities in Louisiana offer part-time job opportunities for students, both on and off campus. These jobs can range from working in the library or cafeteria to tutoring other students or assisting professors with research. Students can typically work up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during breaks.
- Work-study programs: The Federal Work-Study program is a need-based program that provides funding for students to work part-time jobs on or off campus. The amount of money awarded depends on the student’s financial need and the availability of funds from the school or the federal government. To be eligible, students must complete the FAFSA and be enrolled in a degree-seeking program.
Overall, while TOPS is a valuable resource for many Louisiana students, there are other options available for financing higher education. By exploring employment opportunities and other financial aid programs, students can find the resources they need to achieve their educational goals.
Savings and Budgeting
While TOPS can provide significant financial assistance for higher education, it may not be the only solution for students seeking to minimize their college expenses. In this section, we will explore various alternatives to TOPS, with a focus on savings and budgeting strategies that can help students make the most of their resources.
College savings plans
One of the most effective ways to save for college is through a college savings plan. These plans, also known as 529 plans, allow families to set aside funds for future educational expenses. Contributions to a 529 plan are not tax-deductible, but the earnings on the investments grow tax-free, and withdrawals for qualified educational expenses are also tax-free.
Louisiana offers a state-sponsored 529 plan called the “College Savings Plan of Louisiana.” This plan provides families with a range of investment options, low fees, and tax benefits. It is important to note that the availability of state tax benefits may vary depending on the state where the account holder resides.
Budgeting tips
Creating a budget is an essential step in managing college expenses. Students should start by estimating their total college costs, including tuition, fees, room and board, books, and other expenses. They should then identify ways to reduce their expenses, such as finding a part-time job, applying for scholarships, or enrolling in a less expensive program.
To create a budget, students should track their income and expenses using a spreadsheet or budgeting app. They should also set financial goals and prioritize their spending, allocating their resources to the most important expenses first.
Reducing expenses
There are many ways for students to reduce their college expenses, such as:
- Shopping around for textbooks: Students can compare prices online and look for used books or rentals to save money.
- Living frugally: Students can save money on housing costs by sharing an apartment or living at home. They can also save on food costs by cooking their own meals instead of eating out.
- Utilizing campus resources: Students can take advantage of free resources on campus, such as libraries, computer labs, and recreational facilities.
- Avoiding unnecessary expenses: Students should be mindful of their spending habits and avoid unnecessary purchases, such as expensive clothing or electronics.
By implementing these savings and budgeting strategies, students can minimize their college expenses and maximize their financial aid awards, including TOPS.
FAQs
1. What is TOPS?
TOPS stands for Taylor Opportunity Program for Students. It is a tuition award program established by the state of Louisiana to provide financial assistance to eligible students attending Louisiana public colleges and universities.
2. Who is eligible for TOPS?
To be eligible for TOPS, a student must be a resident of Louisiana and have graduated from a Louisiana high school with a minimum GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale. The student must also meet certain financial requirements and be enrolled in an eligible program at a Louisiana public college or university.
3. How much does TOPS cover?
TOPS provides various award amounts based on the student’s GPA and the type of institution they are attending. The award amount can cover a portion or all of the student’s tuition and fees.
4. How do I apply for TOPS?
To apply for TOPS, a student must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the TOPS Online Application. The FAFSA is used to determine the student’s eligibility for federal student aid, while the TOPS Online Application is used to apply for TOPS specifically.
5. When is the deadline to apply for TOPS?
The deadline to apply for TOPS is usually in late June or early July, and it varies depending on the student’s institution. It is important to check with the institution’s financial aid office for the specific deadline.
6. Can I still receive TOPS if I receive other scholarships or financial aid?
Yes, a student can still receive TOPS even if they receive other scholarships or financial aid. However, the total amount of financial aid received cannot exceed the cost of attendance.
7. Can I use TOPS at a private institution?
No, TOPS can only be used at Louisiana public colleges and universities.
8. Can I receive TOPS for more than one academic year?
Yes, a student can receive TOPS for up to four academic years, as long as they continue to meet the eligibility requirements.
9. What happens if I withdraw from a class or drop out of school?
If a student withdraws from a class or drops out of school, they may be required to repay a portion or all of the TOPS award. It is important to check with the institution’s financial aid office for specific policies.
10. How do I renew my TOPS award?
To renew your TOPS award, you must meet the following requirements: maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5, complete the FAFSA, and be enrolled in an eligible program at a Louisiana public college or university. You must also submit the TOPS Renewal Application by the deadline specified by the institution’s financial aid office.
