Under this subchapter, qualified, state-resident students with intellectual disabilities are eligible for grants to pay tuition at institutions of higher education in this State to pursue studies leading to a recognized credential. It is the intent and purpose of the General Assembly, through this subchapter, to help ensure that students with intellectual disabilities in this State have the same opportunities as their peers without disabilities to excel academically and pursue higher education regardless of financial circumstances. Therefore, payments under this program are grants, not loans.