Private Georgia Christian college granted access to state scholarships

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LITHONIA, Ga. - A Christian college in Georgia will now be allowed to participate in the scholarship programs after suing the state over previous exclusions.

Luther Rice College and Seminary and the Alliance Defending Freedom filed a federal lawsuit accusing the state of discrimination in October. 

Private schools considered a "school or college of theology or divinity" had previously been excluded from state student aid programs. In the lawsuit, the school argued that it was forced to either give up its religious character and allow it to be equal to other Georgia schools or maintain its religious mission and not receive state benefits.

This changed on Dec. 19, when officials said that the private college and seminary was officially approved to participate in Georgia State Aid programs beginning in the fall of 2025.

The approval includes the state's HOPE and Zell Scholarships.

"This endeavor was not just an opportunity to defend our religious freedom, but it was also an opportunity to demonstrate the value of a Christian education," Luther Rice President Steven Steinhilber said in a statement. "I commend the State and our partners at Alliance Defending Freedom (ADF) for swiftly reaching a solution. I look forward to providing our Georgia residents an affordable biblically-based education that is so vital for our time." 

Details about the agreement between Luther Rice College and Seminary and Georgia concerning access and eligibility for scholarships have not yet been disclosed.