The PPOHA program has announced 16 new grantees for its Fiscal Year (FY) 2024 competition. Please visit the "Past Award" tab.
Program Office: Institutional Service
CFDA Number: 84.031M
Program Type: Discretionary/Competitive Grants
Also Known As: PPOHA; Title V Part B
Program Contact:
Stacey A. Slijepcevic, Ph.D.
Director, Hispanic-Serving Institutions Division
(Phone) 202-453-6150 | stacey.slijepcevic@ed.gov
Margarita L. Meléndez
Program Lead, PPOHA Program
(Phone) 202-260-3548 | margarita.melendez@ed.gov
Kissy Chapman-Thaw Program Specialist, PPOHA Program
(Phone) 202-453-7627 | kissy.chapman-thaw@ed.gov
Program Description
The Promoting Postbaccalaureate Opportunities for Hispanic Americans (PPOHA) Program provides grants to: (1) expand postbaccalaureate educational opportunities for, and improve the academic attainment of, Hispanic students; and (2) expand the postbaccalaureate academic offerings as well as enhance the program quality in the institutions of higher education that are educating the majority of Hispanic college students and helping large numbers of Hispanic and low-income students complete postsecondary degrees.
Applicant Information and Eligibility
In order to receive a grant under the PPOHA program, an institution of higher education must offer a postbaccalaureate certificate or postbaccalaureate program.
Institutions must be designated as an eligible institution of higher education in order to apply for the Title V, Part B program, and must meet the program specific requirements to be defined as an HSI.
To be designated as an eligible institution of higher education, an institution must apply for and receive designation through an application process. Please refer to the most recent Application for Designation as an Eligible Institution. You may contact the program office on the "Resources" tab if you have questions regarding eligibility.
Who May Apply (by category): Institutions of Higher Education (IHEs)
Who May Apply (specifically): Institutions of higher education that offer a postbaccalaureate certificate or degree program and qualify as eligible Hispanic-serving institutions.
There is an application process to determine eligibility. Please refer to the most recent Application for Designation as an Eligible Institution. You may contact the program office on the "Resources" tab if you have questions regarding eligibility.
Refer to the Tips and Assistance section to find more information, the latest webinar schedule, and/or presentations regarding eligibility.
Lists of Eligible Institutions by Fiscal Year
Applicant Information
There are two application processes for this program -- one for eligibility and one for grant funding.
Application for Eligibility
You must be designated as a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) to apply for funding under this program. For a list of eligible HSIs and more information on the eligibility process, refer to the eligibility designation webpage.
The PPOHA FY 2024 competition has closed. For a list of new grantees, please visit the "Past Award" tab.
Information for Grant Funding
All the information below regarding the FY 2024 competition is for reference only.
Timeline
Current competition: FY 2024
Application available: 3/14/2024
Application deadline: 5/13/2024
Federal Register Notices
- Notice Inviting Applications for New Awards for Fiscal Year 2024 | PDF
Current Application
All applicants are required to submit an application online through Grants.gov. Grants.gov is a single access point for over 1,000 grant programs offered by federal and other grant-making agencies.
Through Grants.gov you will be able to download a copy of the application package, complete it offline, and then upload and submit your application. You must search for the downloadable application package for this program by the CFDA number 84.031M or the Funding Opportunity Number ED-GRANTS-031424-002. If you experience problems submitting your application through Grants.gov, refer to the Support page and/or contact the Grants.gov Support Desk, toll free, at 1-800-518-4726. For program-specific questions, contact the Competition Manager at Margarita.Melendez@ed.gov.
If you use a telecommunications device for the deaf (TDD) or a text telephone (TTY), call the Federal Relay Service (FRS), toll free, at 1-800-877-8339. Individuals with disabilities can obtain this document and a copy of the application package in an accessible format (e.g., braille, large print, audiotape, or compact disc) on request to one of the program contact persons listed below.
Review Process
Peer Reviewers (field readers) are periodically needed for the program's reviewer pool for grant competitions. To streamline the grant application and review process, the Office of Postsecondary Education's Field Reader System (FRS) has been retired and all reviewer information has been migrated to the Department's G6 system. Follow the instructions in the G6 system and/or contact the program office for additional assistance about the review process.
Call for Reviewers
Call for Reviewers for the FY 2024 PPOHA Grant Competition!
If you are interested in serving as a Peer Reviewer, please contact Margarita L. Meléndez at Margarita.Melendez@ed.gov and be sure you are registered as a Peer Reviewer in the G6 system.
Tips and Assistance
Click here for the FY 2024 PPOHA Pre-application Webinar Schedule.
Click here for the FY 2024 PPOHA Pre-application Presentation.
Click here for the FY 2024 PPOHA Brochure.
Application Contacts
Margarita L. Meléndez, (202) 260-3548, Margarita.Melendez@ed.gov
U.S. Department of Education, OPE
Higher Education Programs, Institutional Service
Hispanic-Serving Institutions Division
400 Maryland Avenue, S.W., 5th floor
Washington, D.C. 20202
| Institutional Service Home | Discretionary Grant Application Packages |
The Promoting Postbaccalaureate Opportunities for Hispanic Americans Program was authorized by the Higher Education Opportunity Act, 2008. FY 2009 was its first year of funding.
FY 2024
The FY 2024 appropriation was $27,451,000. Of this amount, $15,977,758 was used to fund 27 non-competing continuation (NCC) grant awards, and $11,095,717 was used to fund 16 new grant awards.
FY 2022
The FY 2022 appropriation was $19,661,000. Of this amount, $13,689,126 was used to fund 24 non-competing continuation (NCC) grant awards, and $5,876,894 was used to fund 10 new grant awards.
FY 2014
The FY 2014 appropriation for the PPOHA Program consists of two separate sources of funds totaling $19,527,000. Of this amount, $10,672,000 is mandatory and will be used to support a new grant competition. The PPOHA discretionary grant program will use the remaining $8,845,000 to support FY 2014 noncompeting continuations (NCCs). Funds appropriated under the two legislative authorities cannot be blended in the same year. Therefore, mandatory funds cannot be used to fund the difference between the amount requested and the amount for the discretionary NCC cohort.
FY 2013
The FY 2013 Non-Competing Continuation (NCC) funding for the Title V, Part B is $19,453,111 a reduction of $2,798,784 from FY 2012 to fund 43 awards. The PPOHA Program consists of two separate sources of funds appropriated by Congress totaling $19,453,111. The FY 2009 NCC cohort will be funded using mandatory funding in the amount of $10,913,500, and the FY 2010 NCC cohort will be funded using discretionary funding in the amount of $8,539,611, a 5.1 percent and 5.2 percent reduction, respectively, from the previous year.
Program staff will assist these institutions with adjusting their budgets to minimize the impact of the reduced award amounts.
FY 2011
The Department of Defense and Full-Year Continuing Appropriations Act, 2011, P.L. 112-10, was passed by Congress on April 15, 2011. It provides funding for the Department of Education for the remainder of Federal Fiscal Year (FY) 2011. The effects of P.L. 112-10 on the programs authorized by Title V of the Higher Education Act of 1965, as amended, are as follows:
Title V- Promoting Postbaccalaureate Opportunities for Hispanic Americans (PPOHA) Program (Part B)
The FY 2011 appropriation for the Title V, Part B, PPOHA Program is $20,836,290, a reduction of $1,163,710 from FY 2010. The Department plans to reduce each NCC award by approximately $55,871 from the requested amounts for FY 2011. The Department does not plan to make new awards in FY 2011.
Title V-Hispanic Serving Institutions Program (Part A)
The FY 2011 appropriation for the Title V, Part A, HSI Program is $104,394,792, a reduction of $13,034,208 from FY 2010. The Department anticipates no reduction in the amount of non-competing continuation (NCC) awards to be made in FY 2011. The Department also anticipates making new awards under this program in FY 2011.
FY 2010
Discretionary funding:
Number of new awards: 20
Average new award: $520,000
Total new award funding: $10,395,000
Number of continuation awards: 0
Average continuation award: 0
Total continuation award funding: 0
Peer review of new award applications: $105,000
Total discretionary funding: $10,500,000
Total discretionary awards: 20
Mandatory funding*:
Number of continuation awards: 22
Average continuation award: $522,000
Total continuation award funding: $11,488,000
Peer review of new award applications: $12,000
Total mandatory funding: $11,500,000
Total mandatory awards: 22
Total PPOHA award funding: $22,000,000
Total number of awards: 42
FY 2009
Mandatory funding*:
Number of new awards: 22
Average new award: $518,000
Total new award funding: $11,397,000
Peer review of new applications: $103,000
Total award funding: $11,500,000
* Mandatory funding is provided under the Student Aid and Fiscal Responsibility Act (SAFRA).
Legislation
- Title V, Part B of the Higher Education Act of 1965, as amended. (20 U.S.C. 1102-1102c)
Regulations
Applicable Regulations: (a) The Education Department General Administrative Regulations in 34 CFR parts 74, 75, 77, 79, 81, 82, 84, 85, 86, 97, 98, and 99. (b) The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Guidelines to Agencies on Governmentwide Debarment and Suspension (Non procurement) in 2 CFR part 180, as adopted and amended as regulations of the Department in 2 CFR part 3485. (c) The Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards in 2 CFR part 200, as adopted and amended as regulations of the Department in 2 CFR part 3474. (d) Supplemental Priorities.”
Annual Performance Report
Grantees are required to submit two types of performance reports:
- Interim Performance Report, which is due after the first six months of the grant.
- Annual Performance Report (APR). The APR is available to grantees October 1 of each calendar year, and closes 90 days thereafter. To review the reporting requirement for Title III and Title V Programs, request access to an interactive training site under the training tab located on IS' Information Management Performance System Portal. Once there you may select the requirements for each Title III and Title V program based on the institutional type (two-year or four-year). This site is also available to grantees for training purposes and includes an APR user's manual.
To gain access to the APR project directors need the institution's Unit ID, PR Award ID, and a unique password provided by the Institutional Service. Passwords are e-mailed to the grantee project director designated on the grant award notification document 30 days before the collection period begins. Project directors of Title III and Title V grants are responsible for completing and managing the content of their respective annual report.
Note: If you are a project director and have responsibility for completing the annual report for your institution, please be sure you are designated on the official grant award notification and your e-mail and telephone number are listed correctly in the G6 database. Contact your program officer on the "Resources" tab if you have questions.
FINAL PERFORMANCE REPORT
The online system will generate a final report from grantees' individual annual reports for each grant ending September 30 of the collection period. The online system generates the final performance so that reported data is consistent throughout the life cycle of grants and eliminates each grantee's burden of having to compile a final report.
Organizations
Alliance of Hispanic Serving Institution Educators (AHSIE)
American Association of Hispanics in Higher Education (AAHE)
Excelencia in Education
Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU)
Related Web Sites
- HSI Division YouTube playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNvZOA2puYOgpRJLkBvsobcMi6X041xrY
- White House Initiative on Educational Excellence for Hispanic Americans
Other Federal HSI Funding Sources:
- National Endowment for the Humanities
- Faculty Research: Programs for HBCUs, HSIs and TCCUs
Other Office of Postsecondary Education Funding Sources:
Other Resources
- Click here to view the Logic Model Part 1 (Encore): Theory and Fundamentals webinar on March 23, 2023.
- Click here to view the Quarterly Form: Financial Literacy Education for Student Success webinar on February 28, 2023.
- Click here to view the HSI Division APR TA Webinar on February 1, 2023.
- Click here to view the FY 2023 HSI Division Financial Management Webinar on January 31, 2023.
- Other Applicant and Grantee Resources
Key Staff:
Stacey A. Slijepcevic, Ph.D.
Director, Hispanic-Serving Institutions Division
(Phone) 202-453-6150 | stacey.slijepcevic@ed.gov
Margarita L. Meléndez
Program Lead, PPOHA Program
(Phone) 202-260-3548 | margarita.melendez@ed.gov
Kissy Chapman-Thaw
Program Specialist, PPOHA Program
(Phone) 202-453-7627 | kissy.chapman-thaw@ed.gov
Mailing Address:
U.S. Department of Education, OPE
Higher Education Programs
Institutional Service
Hispanic-Serving Institutions Program
400 Maryland Avenue, S.W., 4th floor
Washington, DC 20202
Frequently Asked Questions
General Questions: Q1-Q15
Eligibility Questions: Q16-Q19
Project Design Questions: Q20-Q31
Budget Questions: Q32-Q40
Evidence and Evaluation Questions: Q41-Q47
 | Select a link below to jump to the relevant page section. |
- What is the purpose of the Promoting Postbaccalaureate Opportunities for Hispanic Americans Program (PPOHA) program?
- Who is eligible to apply for the PPOHA program?
- May PPOHA grantees give preference to Hispanic students?
- Will pre-application technical assistance (TA) webinars be provided to potential applicants?
- What type of grants will be awarded in FY 2024?
- What is a Cooperative Arrangement Development Grant?
- Can an IHE submit more than one application for a PPOHA grant?
- How do you submit an application for the FY 2024 competition?
- When is the deadline for submitting an application for the FY 2024 competition?
- What is the estimated range of awards?
- What is the total project period for an award?
- What are the funding priorities of the FY 2024 competition?
- What is the difference between an Absolute Priority, Competitive Preference Priority, and an Invitational Priority?
- For purposes of the PPOHA program, what fields are considered STEM fields?
- How do I indicate my responses to the priorities in my application?
- How do I document in my application that my IHE is eligible for a PPOHA grant?
- Is my IHE eligible to apply for a PPOHA grant if it holds a Title III Part A or Part B grant?
- May an IHE receive PPOHA funding during the no-cost extension period of a Title III Part A or Part B grant?
- May I apply for a FY 2024 PPOHA grant if my IHE currently holds a PPOHA grant or a DHSI grant?
- What are some of the allowable activities under the PPOHA program?
- Can PPOHA funds be used to create a new postbaccalaureate degree, certificate, or credential program?
- Can PPOHA funds be used to enhance an existing postbaccalaureate degree, certificate, or credential program?
- Can PPOHA funds be used at the undergraduate level?
- Can PPOHA funds be used for a combined bachelor's/master's degree program?
- Can PPOHA funds be used for a bridge program that prepares undergraduate students to apply for and be successful in graduate school?
- Can PPOHA funds be used for outreach to students that have completed their undergraduate degree?
- Are non-degree or non-credit courses that are needed to help prepare a student for a postsecondary credential allowable under PPOHA?
- If an IHE does not offer a postbaccalaureate certificate or program, is it eligible to apply for PPOHA?
- May an IHE that does not offer a postbaccalaureate certificate or program partner with an HSI that does offer a postbaccalaureate certificate or program to apply for PPOHA?
- Does the PPOHA program allow subgrantees?
- How do you determine "low-income" students for PPOHA grants?
- What is the distinction between operational costs and developmental costs under the PPOHA allowable activities?
- How does one determine allowable costs under the PPOHA program?
- May PPOHA grants offer direct student financial assistance?
- Does financial assistance to low-income students include payment of tuition and fees?
- May students receive compensation for internships, fellowships, or other work necessary to the Federal award?
- Are indirect costs allowable under the PPOHA program?
- What does it mean that grant funds must supplement, not supplant?
- Is there a cost matching requirement under the PPOHA program?
- Under what circumstances may grant funds be used to pay for a portion of the salary of a dean or associate dean?
- Where can I find resources for developing a logic model?
- For the promising evidence standard, must I use studies from the Department's What Works Clearinghouse?
- When searching using the term "postbaccalaureate" in the WWC, there are few relevant studies. How can I find relevant studies for my PPOHA project?
- Should applicants mark "Demonstrates a Rationale" or "Promising Evidence" when completing the Evidence Form (OMB No. 1894-0001)?
- Should applicants complete all 3 columns on the Evidence Form (OMB No. 1894-0001)?
- Is the logic model limited to one page?
- Is there software available that can help IHEs build a logic model?
1. What is the purpose of the Promoting Postbaccalaureate Opportunities for Hispanic Americans Program (PPOHA) program?
The purposes of the PPOHA program are to (1) expand postbaccalaureate educational opportunities for, and improve the academic attainment of, Hispanic students; and (2) expand the postbaccalaureate academic offerings and enhance the program quality in the institutions of higher education that are educating the majority of Hispanic college students and helping large numbers of Hispanic and low-income students complete postsecondary degrees.
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2. Who is eligible to apply for the PPOHA program?
Institutions of higher education (IHEs) that (a) qualify as an eligible HSI and (b) offer a postbaccalaureate certificate or postbaccalaureate degree program are eligible to apply for new grants under the PPOHA Program. See section 512(b) of the HEA (20 U.S.C. 1102a(b)). For additional information on eligibility requirements, review the Notice Inviting Applications (NIA) and visit the Office of Postsecondary Education (OPE) site for eligibility determination for titles III and V grant programs.
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3. May PPOHA grantees give preference to Hispanic students?
No. Students should not be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination based on race, color, or national origin under any program or activity receiving grant funds.
4. Will pre-application technical assistance (TA) webinars be provided to potential applicants?
Yes. Please visit the Applicant Information webpage for more information.
5. What type of grants will be awarded in FY 2024?
Five-year Individual Development Grants and Cooperative Arrangement Development Grants.
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6. What is a Cooperative Arrangement Development Grant?
A cooperative arrangement is an arrangement to carry out allowable grant activities between an institution eligible to receive a grant under this competition and another eligible or ineligible IHE, under which the resources of the cooperating institutions are combined and shared to better achieve the purpose of the program and avoid costly duplication of effort.
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7. Can an IHE submit more than one application for a PPOHA grant?
No. An eligible IHE may not submit more than one Individual Development Grant application, be the lead applicant for more than one Cooperative Arrangement Development Grant or submit an Individual Development Grant application and be the lead applicant for a Cooperative Arrangement Development Grant application in this competition.
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8. How do you submit an application for the FY 2024 competition?
All applications must be submitted electronically through Grants.gov. In addition, applicants are required to follow the Common Instructions for Applicants to Department of Education Discretionary Grant Programs, published in the Federal Register on December 7, 2022 (87 FR 75045), which contain requirements and information on how to submit an application.
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9. When is the deadline for submitting an application for the FY 2024 competition?
The deadline for the FY 2024 competition is Monday, May 13, 2024, at 11:59:59 PM Eastern Time.
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10. What is the estimated range of awards?
The estimated range for Individual Development Grants is $500,000-$600,000 per year and Cooperative Arrangement Development Grants is $600,000-$1,500,000 per year.
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11. What is the total project period for an award?
Up to 60 months.
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12. What are the funding priorities of the FY 2024 competition?
This competition includes an absolute priority focused on expanding the number of Hispanic and other underrepresented graduate and professional students served by the applicant institution, or the institutions that are part of the cooperative agreement application, through expanded courses and institutional resources. This competition also includes two competitive preference priorities focused on meeting students' holistic needs and providing flexible, high-quality, and accessible learning opportunities, and three invitational priorities that support increasing the number of Hispanic doctoral candidates and graduates through collaboration, increasing the number of Hispanic educators, and increasing the number of Hispanics prepared for the STEM workforce. Refer to the NIA for detailed information on the priorities
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13. What is the difference between an Absolute Priority, Competitive Preference Priority, and an Invitational Priority?
Absolute priority - the applicant must address the absolute priority in order to be considered for funding; competitive preference priority — the applicant has the option of choosing whether or not to address and for which they may receive additional points; and invitational priority - the applicant is encouraged but not required to address. Applications addressing invitational priorities receive no preference over applications that do not meet the priority.
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14. For purposes of the PPOHA program, what fields are considered STEM fields?
STEM stands for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, and STEM fields include biological and biomedical sciences, computer and information sciences, engineering and engineering technologies, mathematics and statistics, and physical sciences and science technologies. The PPOHA program recognizes that there are integrated disciplines of STEM. Therefore, it is the responsibility of the applicant to clarify in the application how the proposed courses, majors, programs, etc., align with an academic discipline of STEM and, for purposes of meeting the requirements of Invitational Priority 3: Increasing Hispanics in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), it is also the applicant's responsibility to demonstrate that the proposed project is designed to increase the number of Hispanic postbaccalaureate students and educators in STEM. Finally, applicants are reminded that they do not earn additional points for meeting an Invitational Priority.
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15. How do I indicate my responses to the priorities in my application?
Include your response(s) within the Project Narrative. Use a bold heading and clearly label the sections (Competitive Preference Priority, Invitational Priority). Applicants may respond to one or both Competitive Preference Priorities for a total of up to 15 additional points, depending on how well you respond. Applicants may respond to one or more Invitational Priorities. No additional points are provided for responding to the Invitational Priorities.
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16. How do I document in my application that my IHE is eligible for a PPOHA grant?
Applicants are responsible for demonstrating eligibility under this program. An applicant should include the most recent eligibility designation letter issued by the Department. That letter is available on your IHE's dashboard at the following website HEPIS. Refer to the FY 2024 Eligibility Instructions for more information. In addition, the Department will compare the data and documentation the institution relied on in its application with data reported to the Department's Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), the IHE's State-reported enrollment data, and the institutional annual report. If different percentages or data are reported in these various sources, the institution must, as part of the 25 percent assurance verification, explain the reason for the differences. If the IPEDS data show that less than 25 percent of the institution's undergraduate FTE students are Hispanic, the burden is on the institution to show that the IPEDS data is inaccurate. If the IPEDS data indicate that the institution has an enrollment of undergraduate FTE students that is less than 25 percent, and the institution fails to demonstrate that the IPEDS data is inaccurate, the institution will be considered ineligible.
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17. Is my IHE eligible to apply for a PPOHA grant if it holds a Title III Part A or Part B grant?
A grantee under the PPOHA Program, which is authorized by title V of the HEA, may not receive a grant under any HEA Title III part A or part B program during the period for which funds under this program are awarded (section 505 of the HEA; 20 U.S.C. 1101d). The Title III part A programs include: the Strengthening Institutions Program; the American Indian Tribally Controlled Colleges and Universities Program; the Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian-Serving Institutions Programs; the Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institutions Program; the Predominantly Black Institutions Program; and the Native American-Serving Non-Tribal Institutions Program. Title III part B includes the Strengthening Historically Black Colleges and Universities Program. An IHE is eligible to apply for a PPOHA grant if it would not be receiving funds under part A or part B of Title III during the PPOHA grant period.
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18. May an IHE receive PPOHA funding during the no-cost extension period of a Title III Part A or Part B grant?
Yes, an IHE may receive PPOHA grant funding while in a no-cost extension period of a Title III part A or part B grant.
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19. May I apply for a FY 2024 PPOHA grant if my IHE currently holds a PPOHA grant or a DHSI grant?
Yes, you may apply for a FY 2024 PPOHA grant if you currently hold a PPOHA or DHSI grant.
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20. What are some of the allowable activities under the PPOHA program?
The authorized activities for PPOHA are contained in 20 U.S.C. § 1102b and include: (1) Purchase, rental, or lease of scientific or laboratory equipment for educational purposes, including instructional and research purposes; (2) Construction, maintenance, renovation, and improvement of classrooms, libraries, laboratories, and other instructional facilities, including purchase or rental of telecommunications technology equipment or services; (3) Purchase of library books, periodicals, technical and other scientific journals, microfilm, microfiche, and other educational materials, including telecommunications program materials; (4) Support for low-income postbaccalaureate students including outreach, academic support services, mentoring, scholarships, fellowships, and other financial assistance to permit the enrollment of such students in postbaccalaureate certificate and postbaccalaureate degree granting programs; (5) Support of faculty exchanges, faculty development, faculty research, curriculum development, and academic instruction; (6) Creating or improving facilities for Internet or other distance education technologies, including purchase or rental of telecommunications technology equipment or services; (7) Collaboration with other institutions of higher education to expand postbaccalaureate certificate and postbaccalaureate degree offerings; (8) Other activities proposed in the application submitted pursuant to 20 U.S.C. 1102c that—(A)contribute to carrying out the purposes of the PPOHA program; and (B) are approved by the Secretary as part of the review and acceptance of PPOHA applications.
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21. Can PPOHA funds be used to create a new postbaccalaureate degree, certificate, or credential program?
Yes, PPOHA funds may be used to create or develop new postbaccalaureate degree, certificate, or credential programs.
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22. Can PPOHA funds be used to enhance an existing postbaccalaureate degree, certificate, or credential program?
Yes, PPOHA funds may be used to enhance an existing postbaccalaureate degree, certificate, or credential program.
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23. Can PPOHA funds be used at the undergraduate level?
No. PPOHA funds are designed for persons/programs who have completed a baccalaureate degree. The intended use of the funds is for activities and supports at the postbaccalaureate level.
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24. Can PPOHA funds be used for a combined bachelor's/master's degree program?
PPOHA funds may only be used for the portion of the program that supports students/activities beyond the first bachelor's degree.
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25. Can PPOHA funds be used for a bridge program that prepares undergraduate students to apply for and be successful in graduate school?
No, PPOHA funds may only be used to support post-baccalaureate students. Per the PPOHA authorized activities, PPOHA funds may be used to support low-income postbaccalaureate students including outreach, academic support services, mentoring, scholarships, fellowships, and other financial assistance to permit the enrollment of such students in postbaccalaureate certificate and postbaccalaureate degree granting programs.
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26. Can PPOHA funds be used for outreach to students that have completed their undergraduate degree?
Yes, funds may be used to support outreach to postbaccalaureate students.
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27. Are non-degree or non-credit courses that are needed to help prepare a student for a postsecondary credential allowable under PPOHA?
Support for non-degree or non-credit courses that cannot be applied towards the requirements for a postsecondary degree, diploma, certificate, or other recognized postsecondary credential is not allowable.
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28. If an IHE does not offer a postbaccalaureate certificate or program, is it eligible to apply for PPOHA?
No. Per the PPOHA statute, the IHE must be a designated HSI and offer a postbaccalaureate certificate or program.
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29. May an IHE that does not offer a postbaccalaureate certificate or program partner with an HSI that does offer a postbaccalaureate certificate or program to apply for PPOHA?
Yes, it may, but the IHE that meets the PPOHA eligibility requirements (i.e., is a designated eligible HSI and offers a postbaccalaureate certificate or program) must be the lead applicant/fiscal agent.
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30. Does the PPOHA program allow subgrantees?
Yes. Grantees may award subgrants to local educational agencies (LEAs), State educational agencies (SEAs), IHEs, and nonprofit organizations. The grantee may award subgrants to entities it has identified in an approved application or that it selects through a competition under procedures established by the grantee.
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31. How do you determine "low-income" students for PPOHA grants?
A low-income student is a student whose family's taxable income does not exceed 150 percent of the amount equal to the poverty level, as established by the U.S. Census Bureau. The definition of ‘‘low-income'' is found in the HEA at 20 U.S.C. 1058(g) and at the Department's regulations at 34 CFR 606.3(c)
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32. What is the distinction between operational costs and developmental costs under the PPOHA allowable activities?
PPOHA grant funds should be used to benefit your postbaccalaureate students and not primarily to support general IHE expenses. For example, costs related to maintenance, general administrative tasks, or overall IHE operating costs should not be included in the PPOHA project. Costs related to academic programs (including expanding or enhancing course offerings), direct student services (such as tutoring or counseling), upgrading facilities to enhance student learning, and faculty professional development are all examples of appropriate costs under the PPOHA program.
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33. How does one determine allowable costs under the PPOHA program?
All project costs must align with the PPOHA program statute and with the funded project's goals and objectives. In addition, project costs must be reasonable, allocable, and allowable, in accordance with the Cost Principles and other requirements in the Uniform Guidance (2 CFR 200.404, 200.405, and 200.403, respectively).
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34. May PPOHA grants offer direct student financial assistance?
Grant funds may be used for scholarships, fellowships, and other financial assistance for low-income students. A low-income student is a student whose family’s taxable income does not exceed 150 percent of the amount equal to the poverty level, as established by the U.S. Census Bureau. Grantees may use not more than 20 percent of their total PPOHA program grant award for these expenses. Only students who are eligible for Title IV funds are eligible to receive scholarships, fellowships, and other financial assistance under PPOHA.
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35. Does financial assistance to low-income students include payment of tuition and fees?
Tuition remission and other support provided in accordance with the established policy of the IHE and consistently provided in a like manner to students in return for similar activities conducted under Federal awards is allowed under the PPOHA program. Please refer to §200.466 Scholarships and student aid costs of the Uniform Guidance for complete information.
36. May students receive compensation for internships, fellowships, or other work necessary to the Federal award?
In addition to providing scholarships, fellowships, and other student financial assistance to low-income students, under certain circumstances an IHE may also provide tuition remission or other compensation paid as, or in lieu of wages to students performing necessary work. Compensation to students participating in internships or fellowships is permissible if all of the following conditions are met: (1) the individual is conducting activities necessary to the Federal award; (2) tuition remission and other support are provided in accordance with established policy of the IHE and consistently provided in a like manner to students in return for similar activities conducted under Federal awards as well as other activities; (3) during the academic period, the student is enrolled in an advanced degree program at the IHE and the activities of the student in relation to the Federal award are related to the degree program; (4) the tuition or other payments are reasonable compensation for the work performed and are conditioned explicitly upon the performance of necessary work; and (5) it is the IHE’s practice to similarly compensate students under Federal awards as well as other activities. Such compensation is not limited to low-income students and may be in addition to the up to 20 percent of the grantee’s budget allocated to provide financial support to low-income students.
37. Are indirect costs allowable under the PPOHA program?
Yes, indirect costs are allowed. The PPOHA program uses a restricted indirect cost rate (ICR). Under a restricted indirect cost rate, IHEs are limited to an 8% Modified Total Direct Cost (MTDC) base. Please see 34 CFR 76.564 for more information. In addition, please refer to the paragraph titled Section III: General of your IHE's ICR agreement, that covers statutory or administrative limitations of a given grant (e.g., restricted programs). If you are claiming indirect costs in your application, please include a copy of the ICR agreement in your application package. For more information regarding indirect costs, please visit the Department's Indirect Cost Rate Division webpage or email them at IndirectCostDivision@ed.gov.
38. What does it mean that grant funds must supplement, not supplant?
Grant funds should be used to supplement the funds that would otherwise be available for the activities to be carried out under the grant. They should not supplant funds that would otherwise be expended in the absence of the grant.
39. Is there a cost matching requirement under the PPOHA program?
This program does not require cost sharing or matching unless the grantee uses a portion of its grant for establishing or improving an endowment fund. If a grantee uses a portion of its grant for endowment fund purposes, it must match or exceed those grant funds with non-Federal funds.
40. Under what circumstances may grant funds be used to pay for a portion of the salary of a dean or associate dean?
Grant funds may not be used to pay for any portion of the salary of a president, vice president, or equivalent officer who has college-wide administrative authority and responsibility at an institution. Grant funds may be used to pay for a portion of the salary of a dean or associate dean to fill a position under the grant if that employee does not have college-wide administrative authority or responsibility.
41. Where can I find resources for developing a logic model?
There are several resources for developing a logic model posted at Grants.gov under the PPOHA Opportunity Number. These resources are from the Department's Regional Educational Laboratories (RELs). Also, the Education Logic Model (ELM) application is a downloadable, browser-based application that will help you build a logic model by answering a series of questions
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42. For the promising evidence standard, must I use studies from the Department's What Works Clearinghouse?
A study does not need to meet What Works Clearinghouse (WWC) Standards to meet the definition of Promising Evidence. However, studies that meet the WWC standards and show a statistically significant effect of a project component on a relevant outcome do meet the Promising evidence standard. Therefore, the WWC can be a helpful source for studies and research that you may want to use for your PPOHA project. If you choose to use studies from another source, you should include information in your application regarding the protocols and rigor of the source in its review of studies.
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43. When searching using the term "postbaccalaureate" in the WWC, there are few relevant studies. How can I find relevant studies for my PPOHA project?
Search for terms related to the academic content or pedagogical approach on which you are designing your project, such as "nursing, "computer science," "mentoring for graduate students," "academic advising," or "online modules" (these examples are for illustrative purposes only). Also remember that "postbaccalaureate" may include master's and doctoral degrees, certificates, and credentials, so you may try searching under those terms as well.
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44. Should applicants mark "Demonstrates a Rationale" or "Promising Evidence" when completing the Evidence Form (OMB No. 1894-0001)?
As defined in the NIA, "demonstrates a rationale" means a key project component included in the project's logic model is informed by research or evaluation findings that suggest the project component is likely to improve relevant outcomes. "Promising Evidence" means that there is evidence of the effectiveness of a key project component in improving a relevant outcome, based on a relevant finding from one of the following: (i) a practice guide prepared by the (WWC); (ii) an intervention report prepared by the WWC; or (iii) a single study assessed by the Department. To receive the maximum points under the Quality of the Project Design criterion, your project must demonstrate a rationale and be supported by promising evidence. You demonstrate your rationale by creating a logic model for your project; the logic model should include a project component that is informed by research. You document your use of promising evidence by citing the studies or reports that show that the project component(s) in your logic model meet the Promising Evidence definition. Therefore, on the Evidence Form, you should mark both "Demonstrates a Rationale" and "Promising Evidence."
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45. Should applicants complete all 3 columns on the Evidence Form (OMB No. 1894-0001)?
Yes. In Column A (Research/Citation), you should provide the complete citation in APA, MLA, or other scholarly format. The citation should include the name(s) of the author(s), publication date, journal name or URL, title of study, and monograph or volume number, if applicable. If providing a URL, please ensure that the link is active, as Peer Reviewers are not permitted to consult outside sources when reviewing applications. Alternatively, you may also include a copy of the study or report in question. In Column B (Relevant Outcome[s]/Relevant Finding[s]), indicate the finding(s) of the study or report that is related to your project component (for example, "the study indicates that use of "A" mentoring program shows positive gains over "X" number of years/months.") In Column C (Project Component/Overlap of Populations and/or Settings), indicate the project component that you are including based on the results of the study and the specific population(s) and setting(s) to which the intervention will be applied. For example, the "A" mentoring program has been found successful with [demographic/age/gender/grade level] students in [rural, urban, suburban] and/or [other] settings. For additional information, see the instructions and examples provided on Pages 2-4 of the Evidence Form.
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46. Is the logic model limited to one page?
No, the logic model is not limited to one page.
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47. Is there software available that can help IHEs build a logic model?
Yes, the Education Logic Model (ELM) application is a downloadable, browser-based application that will help you build a logic model by answering a series of questions.
The PPOHA program has announced 16 new grantees for its Fiscal Year (FY) 2024 competition. Please visit the "Past Award" tab.
Program Office: Institutional Service
CFDA Number: 84.031M
Program Type: Discretionary/Competitive Grants
Also Known As: PPOHA; Title V Part B
Program Contact:
Stacey A. Slijepcevic, Ph.D.
Director, Hispanic-Serving Institutions Division
(Phone) 202-453-6150 | stacey.slijepcevic@ed.gov
Margarita L. Meléndez
Program Lead, PPOHA Program
(Phone) 202-260-3548 | margarita.melendez@ed.gov
Kissy Chapman-Thaw Program Specialist, PPOHA Program
(Phone) 202-453-7627 | kissy.chapman-thaw@ed.gov
Program Description
The Promoting Postbaccalaureate Opportunities for Hispanic Americans (PPOHA) Program provides grants to: (1) expand postbaccalaureate educational opportunities for, and improve the academic attainment of, Hispanic students; and (2) expand the postbaccalaureate academic offerings as well as enhance the program quality in the institutions of higher education that are educating the majority of Hispanic college students and helping large numbers of Hispanic and low-income students complete postsecondary degrees.
Applicant Information and Eligibility
In order to receive a grant under the PPOHA program, an institution of higher education must offer a postbaccalaureate certificate or postbaccalaureate program.
Institutions must be designated as an eligible institution of higher education in order to apply for the Title V, Part B program, and must meet the program specific requirements to be defined as an HSI.
To be designated as an eligible institution of higher education, an institution must apply for and receive designation through an application process. Please refer to the most recent Application for Designation as an Eligible Institution. You may contact the program office on the "Resources" tab if you have questions regarding eligibility.
Who May Apply (by category): Institutions of Higher Education (IHEs)
Who May Apply (specifically): Institutions of higher education that offer a postbaccalaureate certificate or degree program and qualify as eligible Hispanic-serving institutions.
There is an application process to determine eligibility. Please refer to the most recent Application for Designation as an Eligible Institution. You may contact the program office on the "Resources" tab if you have questions regarding eligibility.
Refer to the Tips and Assistance section to find more information, the latest webinar schedule, and/or presentations regarding eligibility.
Lists of Eligible Institutions by Fiscal Year
Applicant Information
There are two application processes for this program -- one for eligibility and one for grant funding.
Application for Eligibility
You must be designated as a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) to apply for funding under this program. For a list of eligible HSIs and more information on the eligibility process, refer to the eligibility designation webpage.
The PPOHA FY 2024 competition has closed. For a list of new grantees, please visit the "Past Award" tab.
Information for Grant Funding
All the information below regarding the FY 2024 competition is for reference only.
Timeline
Current competition: FY 2024
Application available: 3/14/2024
Application deadline: 5/13/2024
Federal Register Notices
- Notice Inviting Applications for New Awards for Fiscal Year 2024 | PDF
Current Application
All applicants are required to submit an application online through Grants.gov. Grants.gov is a single access point for over 1,000 grant programs offered by federal and other grant-making agencies.
Through Grants.gov you will be able to download a copy of the application package, complete it offline, and then upload and submit your application. You must search for the downloadable application package for this program by the CFDA number 84.031M or the Funding Opportunity Number ED-GRANTS-031424-002. If you experience problems submitting your application through Grants.gov, refer to the Support page and/or contact the Grants.gov Support Desk, toll free, at 1-800-518-4726. For program-specific questions, contact the Competition Manager at Margarita.Melendez@ed.gov.
If you use a telecommunications device for the deaf (TDD) or a text telephone (TTY), call the Federal Relay Service (FRS), toll free, at 1-800-877-8339. Individuals with disabilities can obtain this document and a copy of the application package in an accessible format (e.g., braille, large print, audiotape, or compact disc) on request to one of the program contact persons listed below.
Review Process
Peer Reviewers (field readers) are periodically needed for the program's reviewer pool for grant competitions. To streamline the grant application and review process, the Office of Postsecondary Education's Field Reader System (FRS) has been retired and all reviewer information has been migrated to the Department's G6 system. Follow the instructions in the G6 system and/or contact the program office for additional assistance about the review process.
Call for Reviewers
Call for Reviewers for the FY 2024 PPOHA Grant Competition!
If you are interested in serving as a Peer Reviewer, please contact Margarita L. Meléndez at Margarita.Melendez@ed.gov and be sure you are registered as a Peer Reviewer in the G6 system.
Tips and Assistance
Click here for the FY 2024 PPOHA Pre-application Webinar Schedule.
Click here for the FY 2024 PPOHA Pre-application Presentation.
Click here for the FY 2024 PPOHA Brochure.
Application Contacts
Margarita L. Meléndez, (202) 260-3548, Margarita.Melendez@ed.gov
U.S. Department of Education, OPE
Higher Education Programs, Institutional Service
Hispanic-Serving Institutions Division
400 Maryland Avenue, S.W., 5th floor
Washington, D.C. 20202
| Institutional Service Home | Discretionary Grant Application Packages |
The Promoting Postbaccalaureate Opportunities for Hispanic Americans Program was authorized by the Higher Education Opportunity Act, 2008. FY 2009 was its first year of funding.
FY 2024
The FY 2024 appropriation was $27,451,000. Of this amount, $15,977,758 was used to fund 27 non-competing continuation (NCC) grant awards, and $11,095,717 was used to fund 16 new grant awards.
FY 2022
The FY 2022 appropriation was $19,661,000. Of this amount, $13,689,126 was used to fund 24 non-competing continuation (NCC) grant awards, and $5,876,894 was used to fund 10 new grant awards.
FY 2014
The FY 2014 appropriation for the PPOHA Program consists of two separate sources of funds totaling $19,527,000. Of this amount, $10,672,000 is mandatory and will be used to support a new grant competition. The PPOHA discretionary grant program will use the remaining $8,845,000 to support FY 2014 noncompeting continuations (NCCs). Funds appropriated under the two legislative authorities cannot be blended in the same year. Therefore, mandatory funds cannot be used to fund the difference between the amount requested and the amount for the discretionary NCC cohort.
FY 2013
The FY 2013 Non-Competing Continuation (NCC) funding for the Title V, Part B is $19,453,111 a reduction of $2,798,784 from FY 2012 to fund 43 awards. The PPOHA Program consists of two separate sources of funds appropriated by Congress totaling $19,453,111. The FY 2009 NCC cohort will be funded using mandatory funding in the amount of $10,913,500, and the FY 2010 NCC cohort will be funded using discretionary funding in the amount of $8,539,611, a 5.1 percent and 5.2 percent reduction, respectively, from the previous year.
Program staff will assist these institutions with adjusting their budgets to minimize the impact of the reduced award amounts.
FY 2011
The Department of Defense and Full-Year Continuing Appropriations Act, 2011, P.L. 112-10, was passed by Congress on April 15, 2011. It provides funding for the Department of Education for the remainder of Federal Fiscal Year (FY) 2011. The effects of P.L. 112-10 on the programs authorized by Title V of the Higher Education Act of 1965, as amended, are as follows:
Title V- Promoting Postbaccalaureate Opportunities for Hispanic Americans (PPOHA) Program (Part B)
The FY 2011 appropriation for the Title V, Part B, PPOHA Program is $20,836,290, a reduction of $1,163,710 from FY 2010. The Department plans to reduce each NCC award by approximately $55,871 from the requested amounts for FY 2011. The Department does not plan to make new awards in FY 2011.
Title V-Hispanic Serving Institutions Program (Part A)
The FY 2011 appropriation for the Title V, Part A, HSI Program is $104,394,792, a reduction of $13,034,208 from FY 2010. The Department anticipates no reduction in the amount of non-competing continuation (NCC) awards to be made in FY 2011. The Department also anticipates making new awards under this program in FY 2011.
FY 2010
Discretionary funding:
Number of new awards: 20
Average new award: $520,000
Total new award funding: $10,395,000
Number of continuation awards: 0
Average continuation award: 0
Total continuation award funding: 0
Peer review of new award applications: $105,000
Total discretionary funding: $10,500,000
Total discretionary awards: 20
Mandatory funding*:
Number of continuation awards: 22
Average continuation award: $522,000
Total continuation award funding: $11,488,000
Peer review of new award applications: $12,000
Total mandatory funding: $11,500,000
Total mandatory awards: 22
Total PPOHA award funding: $22,000,000
Total number of awards: 42
FY 2009
Mandatory funding*:
Number of new awards: 22
Average new award: $518,000
Total new award funding: $11,397,000
Peer review of new applications: $103,000
Total award funding: $11,500,000
* Mandatory funding is provided under the Student Aid and Fiscal Responsibility Act (SAFRA).
Legislation
- Title V, Part B of the Higher Education Act of 1965, as amended. (20 U.S.C. 1102-1102c)
Regulations
Applicable Regulations: (a) The Education Department General Administrative Regulations in 34 CFR parts 74, 75, 77, 79, 81, 82, 84, 85, 86, 97, 98, and 99. (b) The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Guidelines to Agencies on Governmentwide Debarment and Suspension (Non procurement) in 2 CFR part 180, as adopted and amended as regulations of the Department in 2 CFR part 3485. (c) The Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards in 2 CFR part 200, as adopted and amended as regulations of the Department in 2 CFR part 3474. (d) Supplemental Priorities.”
Annual Performance Report
Grantees are required to submit two types of performance reports:
- Interim Performance Report, which is due after the first six months of the grant.
- Annual Performance Report (APR). The APR is available to grantees October 1 of each calendar year, and closes 90 days thereafter. To review the reporting requirement for Title III and Title V Programs, request access to an interactive training site under the training tab located on IS' Information Management Performance System Portal. Once there you may select the requirements for each Title III and Title V program based on the institutional type (two-year or four-year). This site is also available to grantees for training purposes and includes an APR user's manual.
To gain access to the APR project directors need the institution's Unit ID, PR Award ID, and a unique password provided by the Institutional Service. Passwords are e-mailed to the grantee project director designated on the grant award notification document 30 days before the collection period begins. Project directors of Title III and Title V grants are responsible for completing and managing the content of their respective annual report.
Note: If you are a project director and have responsibility for completing the annual report for your institution, please be sure you are designated on the official grant award notification and your e-mail and telephone number are listed correctly in the G6 database. Contact your program officer on the "Resources" tab if you have questions.
FINAL PERFORMANCE REPORT
The online system will generate a final report from grantees' individual annual reports for each grant ending September 30 of the collection period. The online system generates the final performance so that reported data is consistent throughout the life cycle of grants and eliminates each grantee's burden of having to compile a final report.
Organizations
- Alliance of Hispanic Serving Institution Educators (AHSIE)
- American Association of Hispanics in Higher Education (AAHE)
- Excelencia in Education
- Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU)
Related Web Sites
- HSI Division YouTube playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNvZOA2puYOgpRJLkBvsobcMi6X041xrY
- White House Initiative on Educational Excellence for Hispanic Americans
Other Federal HSI Funding Sources:
- National Endowment for the Humanities
- Faculty Research: Programs for HBCUs, HSIs and TCCUs
Other Office of Postsecondary Education Funding Sources:
Other Resources
- Click here to view the Logic Model Part 1 (Encore): Theory and Fundamentals webinar on March 23, 2023.
- Click here to view the Quarterly Form: Financial Literacy Education for Student Success webinar on February 28, 2023.
- Click here to view the HSI Division APR TA Webinar on February 1, 2023.
- Click here to view the FY 2023 HSI Division Financial Management Webinar on January 31, 2023.
- Other Applicant and Grantee Resources
Key Staff:
Stacey A. Slijepcevic, Ph.D.
Director, Hispanic-Serving Institutions Division
(Phone) 202-453-6150 | stacey.slijepcevic@ed.gov
Margarita L. Meléndez
Program Lead, PPOHA Program
(Phone) 202-260-3548 | margarita.melendez@ed.gov
Kissy Chapman-Thaw
Program Specialist, PPOHA Program
(Phone) 202-453-7627 | kissy.chapman-thaw@ed.gov
Mailing Address:
U.S. Department of Education, OPE
Higher Education Programs
Institutional Service
Hispanic-Serving Institutions Program
400 Maryland Avenue, S.W., 4th floor
Washington, DC 20202
Frequently Asked Questions
General Questions: Q1-Q15
Eligibility Questions: Q16-Q19
Project Design Questions: Q20-Q31
Budget Questions: Q32-Q40
Evidence and Evaluation Questions: Q41-Q47
| Select a link below to jump to the relevant page section. |
- What is the purpose of the Promoting Postbaccalaureate Opportunities for Hispanic Americans Program (PPOHA) program?
- Who is eligible to apply for the PPOHA program?
- May PPOHA grantees give preference to Hispanic students?
- Will pre-application technical assistance (TA) webinars be provided to potential applicants?
- What type of grants will be awarded in FY 2024?
- What is a Cooperative Arrangement Development Grant?
- Can an IHE submit more than one application for a PPOHA grant?
- How do you submit an application for the FY 2024 competition?
- When is the deadline for submitting an application for the FY 2024 competition?
- What is the estimated range of awards?
- What is the total project period for an award?
- What are the funding priorities of the FY 2024 competition?
- What is the difference between an Absolute Priority, Competitive Preference Priority, and an Invitational Priority?
- For purposes of the PPOHA program, what fields are considered STEM fields?
- How do I indicate my responses to the priorities in my application?
- How do I document in my application that my IHE is eligible for a PPOHA grant?
- Is my IHE eligible to apply for a PPOHA grant if it holds a Title III Part A or Part B grant?
- May an IHE receive PPOHA funding during the no-cost extension period of a Title III Part A or Part B grant?
- May I apply for a FY 2024 PPOHA grant if my IHE currently holds a PPOHA grant or a DHSI grant?
- What are some of the allowable activities under the PPOHA program?
- Can PPOHA funds be used to create a new postbaccalaureate degree, certificate, or credential program?
- Can PPOHA funds be used to enhance an existing postbaccalaureate degree, certificate, or credential program?
- Can PPOHA funds be used at the undergraduate level?
- Can PPOHA funds be used for a combined bachelor's/master's degree program?
- Can PPOHA funds be used for a bridge program that prepares undergraduate students to apply for and be successful in graduate school?
- Can PPOHA funds be used for outreach to students that have completed their undergraduate degree?
- Are non-degree or non-credit courses that are needed to help prepare a student for a postsecondary credential allowable under PPOHA?
- If an IHE does not offer a postbaccalaureate certificate or program, is it eligible to apply for PPOHA?
- May an IHE that does not offer a postbaccalaureate certificate or program partner with an HSI that does offer a postbaccalaureate certificate or program to apply for PPOHA?
- Does the PPOHA program allow subgrantees?
- How do you determine "low-income" students for PPOHA grants?
- What is the distinction between operational costs and developmental costs under the PPOHA allowable activities?
- How does one determine allowable costs under the PPOHA program?
- May PPOHA grants offer direct student financial assistance?
- Does financial assistance to low-income students include payment of tuition and fees?
- May students receive compensation for internships, fellowships, or other work necessary to the Federal award?
- Are indirect costs allowable under the PPOHA program?
- What does it mean that grant funds must supplement, not supplant?
- Is there a cost matching requirement under the PPOHA program?
- Under what circumstances may grant funds be used to pay for a portion of the salary of a dean or associate dean?
- Where can I find resources for developing a logic model?
- For the promising evidence standard, must I use studies from the Department's What Works Clearinghouse?
- When searching using the term "postbaccalaureate" in the WWC, there are few relevant studies. How can I find relevant studies for my PPOHA project?
- Should applicants mark "Demonstrates a Rationale" or "Promising Evidence" when completing the Evidence Form (OMB No. 1894-0001)?
- Should applicants complete all 3 columns on the Evidence Form (OMB No. 1894-0001)?
- Is the logic model limited to one page?
- Is there software available that can help IHEs build a logic model?
1. What is the purpose of the Promoting Postbaccalaureate Opportunities for Hispanic Americans Program (PPOHA) program?
The purposes of the PPOHA program are to (1) expand postbaccalaureate educational opportunities for, and improve the academic attainment of, Hispanic students; and (2) expand the postbaccalaureate academic offerings and enhance the program quality in the institutions of higher education that are educating the majority of Hispanic college students and helping large numbers of Hispanic and low-income students complete postsecondary degrees.
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2. Who is eligible to apply for the PPOHA program?
Institutions of higher education (IHEs) that (a) qualify as an eligible HSI and (b) offer a postbaccalaureate certificate or postbaccalaureate degree program are eligible to apply for new grants under the PPOHA Program. See section 512(b) of the HEA (20 U.S.C. 1102a(b)). For additional information on eligibility requirements, review the Notice Inviting Applications (NIA) and visit the Office of Postsecondary Education (OPE) site for eligibility determination for titles III and V grant programs.
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3. May PPOHA grantees give preference to Hispanic students?
No. Students should not be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination based on race, color, or national origin under any program or activity receiving grant funds.
4. Will pre-application technical assistance (TA) webinars be provided to potential applicants?
Yes. Please visit the Applicant Information webpage for more information.
5. What type of grants will be awarded in FY 2024?
Five-year Individual Development Grants and Cooperative Arrangement Development Grants.
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6. What is a Cooperative Arrangement Development Grant?
A cooperative arrangement is an arrangement to carry out allowable grant activities between an institution eligible to receive a grant under this competition and another eligible or ineligible IHE, under which the resources of the cooperating institutions are combined and shared to better achieve the purpose of the program and avoid costly duplication of effort.
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7. Can an IHE submit more than one application for a PPOHA grant?
No. An eligible IHE may not submit more than one Individual Development Grant application, be the lead applicant for more than one Cooperative Arrangement Development Grant or submit an Individual Development Grant application and be the lead applicant for a Cooperative Arrangement Development Grant application in this competition.
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8. How do you submit an application for the FY 2024 competition?
All applications must be submitted electronically through Grants.gov. In addition, applicants are required to follow the Common Instructions for Applicants to Department of Education Discretionary Grant Programs, published in the Federal Register on December 7, 2022 (87 FR 75045), which contain requirements and information on how to submit an application.
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9. When is the deadline for submitting an application for the FY 2024 competition?
The deadline for the FY 2024 competition is Monday, May 13, 2024, at 11:59:59 PM Eastern Time.
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10. What is the estimated range of awards?
The estimated range for Individual Development Grants is $500,000-$600,000 per year and Cooperative Arrangement Development Grants is $600,000-$1,500,000 per year.
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11. What is the total project period for an award?
Up to 60 months.
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12. What are the funding priorities of the FY 2024 competition?
This competition includes an absolute priority focused on expanding the number of Hispanic and other underrepresented graduate and professional students served by the applicant institution, or the institutions that are part of the cooperative agreement application, through expanded courses and institutional resources. This competition also includes two competitive preference priorities focused on meeting students' holistic needs and providing flexible, high-quality, and accessible learning opportunities, and three invitational priorities that support increasing the number of Hispanic doctoral candidates and graduates through collaboration, increasing the number of Hispanic educators, and increasing the number of Hispanics prepared for the STEM workforce. Refer to the NIA for detailed information on the priorities
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13. What is the difference between an Absolute Priority, Competitive Preference Priority, and an Invitational Priority?
Absolute priority - the applicant must address the absolute priority in order to be considered for funding; competitive preference priority — the applicant has the option of choosing whether or not to address and for which they may receive additional points; and invitational priority - the applicant is encouraged but not required to address. Applications addressing invitational priorities receive no preference over applications that do not meet the priority.
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14. For purposes of the PPOHA program, what fields are considered STEM fields?
STEM stands for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, and STEM fields include biological and biomedical sciences, computer and information sciences, engineering and engineering technologies, mathematics and statistics, and physical sciences and science technologies. The PPOHA program recognizes that there are integrated disciplines of STEM. Therefore, it is the responsibility of the applicant to clarify in the application how the proposed courses, majors, programs, etc., align with an academic discipline of STEM and, for purposes of meeting the requirements of Invitational Priority 3: Increasing Hispanics in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), it is also the applicant's responsibility to demonstrate that the proposed project is designed to increase the number of Hispanic postbaccalaureate students and educators in STEM. Finally, applicants are reminded that they do not earn additional points for meeting an Invitational Priority.
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15. How do I indicate my responses to the priorities in my application?
Include your response(s) within the Project Narrative. Use a bold heading and clearly label the sections (Competitive Preference Priority, Invitational Priority). Applicants may respond to one or both Competitive Preference Priorities for a total of up to 15 additional points, depending on how well you respond. Applicants may respond to one or more Invitational Priorities. No additional points are provided for responding to the Invitational Priorities.
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16. How do I document in my application that my IHE is eligible for a PPOHA grant?
Applicants are responsible for demonstrating eligibility under this program. An applicant should include the most recent eligibility designation letter issued by the Department. That letter is available on your IHE's dashboard at the following website HEPIS. Refer to the FY 2024 Eligibility Instructions for more information. In addition, the Department will compare the data and documentation the institution relied on in its application with data reported to the Department's Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), the IHE's State-reported enrollment data, and the institutional annual report. If different percentages or data are reported in these various sources, the institution must, as part of the 25 percent assurance verification, explain the reason for the differences. If the IPEDS data show that less than 25 percent of the institution's undergraduate FTE students are Hispanic, the burden is on the institution to show that the IPEDS data is inaccurate. If the IPEDS data indicate that the institution has an enrollment of undergraduate FTE students that is less than 25 percent, and the institution fails to demonstrate that the IPEDS data is inaccurate, the institution will be considered ineligible.
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17. Is my IHE eligible to apply for a PPOHA grant if it holds a Title III Part A or Part B grant?
A grantee under the PPOHA Program, which is authorized by title V of the HEA, may not receive a grant under any HEA Title III part A or part B program during the period for which funds under this program are awarded (section 505 of the HEA; 20 U.S.C. 1101d). The Title III part A programs include: the Strengthening Institutions Program; the American Indian Tribally Controlled Colleges and Universities Program; the Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian-Serving Institutions Programs; the Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institutions Program; the Predominantly Black Institutions Program; and the Native American-Serving Non-Tribal Institutions Program. Title III part B includes the Strengthening Historically Black Colleges and Universities Program. An IHE is eligible to apply for a PPOHA grant if it would not be receiving funds under part A or part B of Title III during the PPOHA grant period.
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18. May an IHE receive PPOHA funding during the no-cost extension period of a Title III Part A or Part B grant?
Yes, an IHE may receive PPOHA grant funding while in a no-cost extension period of a Title III part A or part B grant.
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19. May I apply for a FY 2024 PPOHA grant if my IHE currently holds a PPOHA grant or a DHSI grant?
Yes, you may apply for a FY 2024 PPOHA grant if you currently hold a PPOHA or DHSI grant.
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20. What are some of the allowable activities under the PPOHA program?
The authorized activities for PPOHA are contained in 20 U.S.C. § 1102b and include: (1) Purchase, rental, or lease of scientific or laboratory equipment for educational purposes, including instructional and research purposes; (2) Construction, maintenance, renovation, and improvement of classrooms, libraries, laboratories, and other instructional facilities, including purchase or rental of telecommunications technology equipment or services; (3) Purchase of library books, periodicals, technical and other scientific journals, microfilm, microfiche, and other educational materials, including telecommunications program materials; (4) Support for low-income postbaccalaureate students including outreach, academic support services, mentoring, scholarships, fellowships, and other financial assistance to permit the enrollment of such students in postbaccalaureate certificate and postbaccalaureate degree granting programs; (5) Support of faculty exchanges, faculty development, faculty research, curriculum development, and academic instruction; (6) Creating or improving facilities for Internet or other distance education technologies, including purchase or rental of telecommunications technology equipment or services; (7) Collaboration with other institutions of higher education to expand postbaccalaureate certificate and postbaccalaureate degree offerings; (8) Other activities proposed in the application submitted pursuant to 20 U.S.C. 1102c that—(A)contribute to carrying out the purposes of the PPOHA program; and (B) are approved by the Secretary as part of the review and acceptance of PPOHA applications.
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21. Can PPOHA funds be used to create a new postbaccalaureate degree, certificate, or credential program?
Yes, PPOHA funds may be used to create or develop new postbaccalaureate degree, certificate, or credential programs.
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22. Can PPOHA funds be used to enhance an existing postbaccalaureate degree, certificate, or credential program?
Yes, PPOHA funds may be used to enhance an existing postbaccalaureate degree, certificate, or credential program.
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23. Can PPOHA funds be used at the undergraduate level?
No. PPOHA funds are designed for persons/programs who have completed a baccalaureate degree. The intended use of the funds is for activities and supports at the postbaccalaureate level.
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24. Can PPOHA funds be used for a combined bachelor's/master's degree program?
PPOHA funds may only be used for the portion of the program that supports students/activities beyond the first bachelor's degree.
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25. Can PPOHA funds be used for a bridge program that prepares undergraduate students to apply for and be successful in graduate school?
No, PPOHA funds may only be used to support post-baccalaureate students. Per the PPOHA authorized activities, PPOHA funds may be used to support low-income postbaccalaureate students including outreach, academic support services, mentoring, scholarships, fellowships, and other financial assistance to permit the enrollment of such students in postbaccalaureate certificate and postbaccalaureate degree granting programs.
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26. Can PPOHA funds be used for outreach to students that have completed their undergraduate degree?
Yes, funds may be used to support outreach to postbaccalaureate students.
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27. Are non-degree or non-credit courses that are needed to help prepare a student for a postsecondary credential allowable under PPOHA?
Support for non-degree or non-credit courses that cannot be applied towards the requirements for a postsecondary degree, diploma, certificate, or other recognized postsecondary credential is not allowable.
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28. If an IHE does not offer a postbaccalaureate certificate or program, is it eligible to apply for PPOHA?
No. Per the PPOHA statute, the IHE must be a designated HSI and offer a postbaccalaureate certificate or program.
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29. May an IHE that does not offer a postbaccalaureate certificate or program partner with an HSI that does offer a postbaccalaureate certificate or program to apply for PPOHA?
Yes, it may, but the IHE that meets the PPOHA eligibility requirements (i.e., is a designated eligible HSI and offers a postbaccalaureate certificate or program) must be the lead applicant/fiscal agent.
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30. Does the PPOHA program allow subgrantees?
Yes. Grantees may award subgrants to local educational agencies (LEAs), State educational agencies (SEAs), IHEs, and nonprofit organizations. The grantee may award subgrants to entities it has identified in an approved application or that it selects through a competition under procedures established by the grantee.
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31. How do you determine "low-income" students for PPOHA grants?
A low-income student is a student whose family's taxable income does not exceed 150 percent of the amount equal to the poverty level, as established by the U.S. Census Bureau. The definition of ‘‘low-income'' is found in the HEA at 20 U.S.C. 1058(g) and at the Department's regulations at 34 CFR 606.3(c)
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32. What is the distinction between operational costs and developmental costs under the PPOHA allowable activities?
PPOHA grant funds should be used to benefit your postbaccalaureate students and not primarily to support general IHE expenses. For example, costs related to maintenance, general administrative tasks, or overall IHE operating costs should not be included in the PPOHA project. Costs related to academic programs (including expanding or enhancing course offerings), direct student services (such as tutoring or counseling), upgrading facilities to enhance student learning, and faculty professional development are all examples of appropriate costs under the PPOHA program.
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33. How does one determine allowable costs under the PPOHA program?
All project costs must align with the PPOHA program statute and with the funded project's goals and objectives. In addition, project costs must be reasonable, allocable, and allowable, in accordance with the Cost Principles and other requirements in the Uniform Guidance (2 CFR 200.404, 200.405, and 200.403, respectively).
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34. May PPOHA grants offer direct student financial assistance?
Grant funds may be used for scholarships, fellowships, and other financial assistance for low-income students. A low-income student is a student whose family’s taxable income does not exceed 150 percent of the amount equal to the poverty level, as established by the U.S. Census Bureau. Grantees may use not more than 20 percent of their total PPOHA program grant award for these expenses. Only students who are eligible for Title IV funds are eligible to receive scholarships, fellowships, and other financial assistance under PPOHA.
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35. Does financial assistance to low-income students include payment of tuition and fees?
Tuition remission and other support provided in accordance with the established policy of the IHE and consistently provided in a like manner to students in return for similar activities conducted under Federal awards is allowed under the PPOHA program. Please refer to §200.466 Scholarships and student aid costs of the Uniform Guidance for complete information.
36. May students receive compensation for internships, fellowships, or other work necessary to the Federal award?
In addition to providing scholarships, fellowships, and other student financial assistance to low-income students, under certain circumstances an IHE may also provide tuition remission or other compensation paid as, or in lieu of wages to students performing necessary work. Compensation to students participating in internships or fellowships is permissible if all of the following conditions are met: (1) the individual is conducting activities necessary to the Federal award; (2) tuition remission and other support are provided in accordance with established policy of the IHE and consistently provided in a like manner to students in return for similar activities conducted under Federal awards as well as other activities; (3) during the academic period, the student is enrolled in an advanced degree program at the IHE and the activities of the student in relation to the Federal award are related to the degree program; (4) the tuition or other payments are reasonable compensation for the work performed and are conditioned explicitly upon the performance of necessary work; and (5) it is the IHE’s practice to similarly compensate students under Federal awards as well as other activities. Such compensation is not limited to low-income students and may be in addition to the up to 20 percent of the grantee’s budget allocated to provide financial support to low-income students.
37. Are indirect costs allowable under the PPOHA program?
Yes, indirect costs are allowed. The PPOHA program uses a restricted indirect cost rate (ICR). Under a restricted indirect cost rate, IHEs are limited to an 8% Modified Total Direct Cost (MTDC) base. Please see 34 CFR 76.564 for more information. In addition, please refer to the paragraph titled Section III: General of your IHE's ICR agreement, that covers statutory or administrative limitations of a given grant (e.g., restricted programs). If you are claiming indirect costs in your application, please include a copy of the ICR agreement in your application package. For more information regarding indirect costs, please visit the Department's Indirect Cost Rate Division webpage or email them at IndirectCostDivision@ed.gov.
38. What does it mean that grant funds must supplement, not supplant?
Grant funds should be used to supplement the funds that would otherwise be available for the activities to be carried out under the grant. They should not supplant funds that would otherwise be expended in the absence of the grant.
39. Is there a cost matching requirement under the PPOHA program?
This program does not require cost sharing or matching unless the grantee uses a portion of its grant for establishing or improving an endowment fund. If a grantee uses a portion of its grant for endowment fund purposes, it must match or exceed those grant funds with non-Federal funds.
40. Under what circumstances may grant funds be used to pay for a portion of the salary of a dean or associate dean?
Grant funds may not be used to pay for any portion of the salary of a president, vice president, or equivalent officer who has college-wide administrative authority and responsibility at an institution. Grant funds may be used to pay for a portion of the salary of a dean or associate dean to fill a position under the grant if that employee does not have college-wide administrative authority or responsibility.
41. Where can I find resources for developing a logic model?
There are several resources for developing a logic model posted at Grants.gov under the PPOHA Opportunity Number. These resources are from the Department's Regional Educational Laboratories (RELs). Also, the Education Logic Model (ELM) application is a downloadable, browser-based application that will help you build a logic model by answering a series of questions
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42. For the promising evidence standard, must I use studies from the Department's What Works Clearinghouse?
A study does not need to meet What Works Clearinghouse (WWC) Standards to meet the definition of Promising Evidence. However, studies that meet the WWC standards and show a statistically significant effect of a project component on a relevant outcome do meet the Promising evidence standard. Therefore, the WWC can be a helpful source for studies and research that you may want to use for your PPOHA project. If you choose to use studies from another source, you should include information in your application regarding the protocols and rigor of the source in its review of studies.
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43. When searching using the term "postbaccalaureate" in the WWC, there are few relevant studies. How can I find relevant studies for my PPOHA project?
Search for terms related to the academic content or pedagogical approach on which you are designing your project, such as "nursing, "computer science," "mentoring for graduate students," "academic advising," or "online modules" (these examples are for illustrative purposes only). Also remember that "postbaccalaureate" may include master's and doctoral degrees, certificates, and credentials, so you may try searching under those terms as well.
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44. Should applicants mark "Demonstrates a Rationale" or "Promising Evidence" when completing the Evidence Form (OMB No. 1894-0001)?
As defined in the NIA, "demonstrates a rationale" means a key project component included in the project's logic model is informed by research or evaluation findings that suggest the project component is likely to improve relevant outcomes. "Promising Evidence" means that there is evidence of the effectiveness of a key project component in improving a relevant outcome, based on a relevant finding from one of the following: (i) a practice guide prepared by the (WWC); (ii) an intervention report prepared by the WWC; or (iii) a single study assessed by the Department. To receive the maximum points under the Quality of the Project Design criterion, your project must demonstrate a rationale and be supported by promising evidence. You demonstrate your rationale by creating a logic model for your project; the logic model should include a project component that is informed by research. You document your use of promising evidence by citing the studies or reports that show that the project component(s) in your logic model meet the Promising Evidence definition. Therefore, on the Evidence Form, you should mark both "Demonstrates a Rationale" and "Promising Evidence."
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45. Should applicants complete all 3 columns on the Evidence Form (OMB No. 1894-0001)?
Yes. In Column A (Research/Citation), you should provide the complete citation in APA, MLA, or other scholarly format. The citation should include the name(s) of the author(s), publication date, journal name or URL, title of study, and monograph or volume number, if applicable. If providing a URL, please ensure that the link is active, as Peer Reviewers are not permitted to consult outside sources when reviewing applications. Alternatively, you may also include a copy of the study or report in question. In Column B (Relevant Outcome[s]/Relevant Finding[s]), indicate the finding(s) of the study or report that is related to your project component (for example, "the study indicates that use of "A" mentoring program shows positive gains over "X" number of years/months.") In Column C (Project Component/Overlap of Populations and/or Settings), indicate the project component that you are including based on the results of the study and the specific population(s) and setting(s) to which the intervention will be applied. For example, the "A" mentoring program has been found successful with [demographic/age/gender/grade level] students in [rural, urban, suburban] and/or [other] settings. For additional information, see the instructions and examples provided on Pages 2-4 of the Evidence Form.
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46. Is the logic model limited to one page?
No, the logic model is not limited to one page.
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47. Is there software available that can help IHEs build a logic model?
Yes, the Education Logic Model (ELM) application is a downloadable, browser-based application that will help you build a logic model by answering a series of questions.