How Mississippi college aid works
If you live in Mississippi, the state runs its own college aid on top of federal aid. The one to know is the MTAG and HELP Grant, run by the Mississippi Office of Student Financial Aid. Here is what it is, who qualifies, when to apply, and how it fits with the FAFSA.
Mississippi's state aid programs
Mississippi's flagship state aid is the MTAG. It also offers the HELP Grant, administered by the Mississippi Office of Student Financial Aid.
How and when to apply
State application by aid deadlines (HELP ~April 30).
The FAFSA is the master form. Filing it early puts a student in line for federal Pell grants and work-study, and it starts most state and college aid too. Some state funds are first come, first served, so it is safer to file the week the FAFSA opens than to wait.
Lowering out-of-state tuition
As a Mississippi resident, you may also qualify for the Academic Common Market (SREB): In-state rates in southern states for approved majors your home state's public colleges don't offer. Participation varies by campus and major, so check the official program list.
See the money you qualify for, free
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Start a free planCommon questions about Mississippi college aid
What is Mississippi's main state financial aid program?
Mississippi's flagship state aid is the MTAG and HELP Grant, administered by the Mississippi Office of Student Financial Aid.
When do you apply for Mississippi college aid?
State application by aid deadlines (HELP ~April 30). Exact dates shift every year, so confirm the current cycle on the Mississippi Office of Student Financial Aid site before you file.
Do you need the FAFSA for Mississippi state aid?
MTAG is not started by the FAFSA alone (state application by aid deadlines (help ~april 30)), but you should still file the FAFSA, because it unlocks federal Pell grants, work-study, and most college aid. Check the Mississippi Office of Student Financial Aid for this program's own steps.
State aid details verified as of July 5, 2026. Dates shift each cycle, so always confirm the current deadline on the official Mississippi Office of Student Financial Aid site.