Seniors at four additional Fulton County high schools will be eligible for up to $20,000 in college scholarships starting next school year, after Achieve Atlanta announced a major expansion of its need-based program on Wednesday, July 23.
Global Impact Academy, Langston Hughes High School, The Promise Career Institute, and Westlake High School join Creekside and Tri-Cities high schools as participants. That brings the total to six Fulton County Schools campuses where seniors can apply for the scholarship beginning Feb. 1, 2027.
Sandy Springs students attend Fulton County Schools, though none of the six participating campuses currently serve the Sandy Springs attendance zone.
How to apply
Seniors at the six participating schools must first complete the FAFSA, which is scheduled to open Oct. 1, 2026. The Achieve Atlanta Scholarship application opens Feb. 1, 2027, and closes May 31, 2027. Only the Class of 2027 and later are eligible at the four newly added schools; students who graduated before 2027 do not qualify.
A Scholar Night celebration for applicants and their families is planned for spring 2027. Families can reach Achieve Atlanta at [email protected] or 404-880-3500.
What students get
The scholarship is need-based and renewable. Students pursuing a four-year degree can receive up to $5,000 per year, totaling $20,000 over four years. Those enrolled in two-year or technical programs can receive up to $1,500 per year, with a $3,000 maximum. The award covers tuition and fees at any accredited nonprofit or public college or university, in-state or out-of-state.
Beyond money, Achieve Atlanta provides college advising, persistence coaching, and career readiness support. Staff will work alongside school counselors at all six campuses throughout the 2026–2027 school year.
Background
Achieve Atlanta first expanded outside Atlanta Public Schools in fall 2025, when Creekside and Tri-Cities became its inaugural Fulton County partners. Founded in 2015, the organization has awarded more than $70 million in scholarships and helped over 7,000 students pursue higher education, according to its website. Nearly 2,000 scholars have earned a postsecondary credential.
"One of our highest priorities is ensuring every Fulton County Schools student graduates with a clear pathway to college, career, or military service," Superintendent Dr. Mike Looney said in the district's announcement. "Achieve Atlanta's expansion to four additional high schools strengthens that commitment by removing financial barriers."
Dr. Cheryl Watson-Harris, Achieve Atlanta's president and executive director, leads the organization's expansion into Fulton County.
Key dates
- Oct. 1, 2026 — FAFSA scheduled to open
- Feb. 1, 2027 — Achieve Atlanta Scholarship application opens
- May 31, 2027 — Application deadline
- June 14, 2027 — Fall Update Application opens
