A Christian college in Georgia can now join scholarship programs after suing the state for being excluded. Luther Rice College and Seminary, along with the Alliance Defending Freedom, filed a lawsuit in October, claiming discrimination because private theological schools couldn’t access state student aid. They argued they had to choose between losing their religious identity or missing out on state benefits.

On December 19, officials announced that the college would be allowed to participate in Georgia State Aid programs starting in the fall of 2025. This approval includes the state’s HOPE and Zell Scholarships.

Luther Rice President Steven Steinhilber praised the effort to defend religious freedom and highlighted the importance of offering a Christian education. Details on the agreement regarding scholarships have not yet been revealed.

Luther Rice is a Baptist college and seminary located in Lithonia, Georgia.