OKLAHOMA CITY – Rep. Chad Caldwell, R-Enid, today passed legislation in committee that would expand a full-ride scholarship program for Oklahoma's top academically performing students.
House Bill 1282 would rename the existing Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education Academic Scholars Program to the Oklahoma Rising Scholars Award Act. The measure would guarantee full-ride scholarships for up to five years for qualifying students to attend an Oklahoma university or college.
"These students are considered the best of the best in our state, and frankly the nation," Caldwell said. "We want to do everything we can to assure they attend college in Oklahoma, remain in the state to pursue careers, families, and to make our state the best it can be."
HB1282 passed the House Appropriations & Budget Education Subcommittee and now moves to full A&B.
The change in name is suggested to distinguish this program from one similarly named at the Oklahoma State Department of Education.
Scholarships under the measure would be provided for Oklahoma students who:
•        score in the top 0.5% on the ACT or SAT and have an exceptional GPA or class rank, as determined by the State Regents;
•        are a Presidential Scholar;
•        are a National Merit Scholar;
•        are a National Merit Finalist; or
•        are an institutional nominee.
Lastly, the measure establishes how scholarship amounts will be calculated. Caldwell explained state colleges and universities, including private institutions, would waive tuition, with Regents picking up the remainder of the cost of the program. Caldwell said the program affects about 250 students per year.
The Academic Scholars Program was established by the state Legislature in 1988. It helps cover the cost of room, board, tuition, books, and incidental fees for up to five years. 
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