In this section, “part–time student” means a student who: Is enrolled in a degree–granting program at an eligible institution and taking at least 3 but no more than 11 semester hours of courses each semester; or Is dually enrolled in a secondary school in the State and an institution of higher education. In cooperation with the institutions of higher education in the State, the Commission shall establish and administer a grant program for undergraduate part–time students. A recipient of a part–time grant shall: Except as provided in § 18–1401.1 of this subtitle, be a resident of the State; and Have demonstrated a definite financial need according to criteria established by the Commission. For courses completed under the program, a recipient who is dually enrolled in a secondary school in the State and an institution of higher education may not be required to receive credit from a secondary school and an institution of higher education at the same time.

Notwithstanding § 18–1401(c)(1) of this subtitle, an individual is eligible for an award under this subtitle if the individual is eligible for in–State tuition under this article.

Funds for the Part–Time Grant Program shall be allocated by the Commission to each institution of higher education based upon the number of undergraduate part–time students with demonstrated financial need who are enrolled in degree–granting programs at the institution. Funds for the grant program for part–time students shall be as provided in the annual budget of the Commission by the Governor.

The Commission shall: Establish guidelines for the awarding of grants to part-time students; and Adopt any other guidelines or regulations necessary for the administration of this subtitle.

An institution of higher education that receives State funds under this subtitle shall provide the Commission with an annual audit describing the disposition of the funds.