How Does New TOPS Law Affect You?

A major change in the TOPS program was signed into law. How does it affect students?

Governor John Bel Edwards signed Senate Bill 174, which means that TOPS scholarships will not automatically fully cover tuition for college students.

In the past, TOPS scholarship amounts increased with the rising cost of college tuition. This new law locks in the current TOPS rate, meaning the scholarship will cover the current amount of college tuition. If/when colleges hike the tuition again, TOPS won't cover the increase. That will be left up to the students and families.

The rate for full tuition coverage with TOPS in the coming year will be nearly $300 million.