This bill amends the existing provisions of the PROMISE Scholarship Program in West Virginia, specifically allowing the Higher Education Policy Commission (HEPC) to modify the qualifications for scholarship eligibility. The primary goal is to increase the number of students who can qualify for the award. The bill introduces new language that authorizes HEPC to adjust the required composite testing scores for the ACT and SAT on a yearly basis, eliminating individual subject score requirements. Instead, the total composite scores will be used to determine eligibility for the PROMISE scholarship, effective for the school year 2026-2027 and beyond.

In addition to the changes regarding testing scores, the bill maintains existing scholarship award conditions, including the maximum award amount and eligibility criteria related to academic performance and community service. The commission is also tasked with promulgating rules to ensure the effective operation of the scholarship program, including provisions for financial aid coordination and methods for appealing eligibility determinations. Overall, the bill aims to enhance access to higher education funding for West Virginia students by making the PROMISE scholarship more accessible.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 18C-7-6