Is there a difference between cost sharing and matching commitments under the Star Schools Program?
Cost Sharing or Matching: The Star Schools program requires a matching commitment. Applicants must provide no less than 25% of the funding for the grant in the first two years; no less than 40% in the third and fourth years; and no less than 50 % of the funding in the fifth year. The Secretary may reduce or waive this matching requirement if the applicant can document a financial hardship. For the purposes of this program, cost sharing is considered a matching requirement, however, applicants must ensure that they calculate the appropriate cost share based on the total funds required for the grant.
