What Is A Pell Grant?

• A Pell Grant is a federal grant that is generally only available to undergraduate students who have not received a bachelor's or professional degree. Unlike student loans, a Pell Grant does not have to be repaid upon completion of your education. A Pell Grant may be used in combination with other funding sources such as work-study or student loans.
  
  

How Much Does a Pell Grant Recipient Receive?

• The maximum amount available through a Pell Grant changes each year. For the 2010-2011 school year the maximum award was $5,500. The amount an applicant will receive is determined primarily by the level of financial need, although the cost of the school you are attending, whether or not you are considered independent or dependent and whether you are attending full time or part time will also factor into the award amount. Your financial aid is determined by a formula that takes into account your expected contribution and that of your parents if you are considered a dependent student. You will be assigned an Expected Family Contribution (EFC) amount that will determine the amount of your award. Applicants with an EFC amount of zero will receive the highest Pell Grant Awards.
  
  

General Guidelines

• In order to receive a Pell Grant you must be enrolled at least half-time at an accredited institution and working toward an associate's or bachelor's degree or a certificate. You must also complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
  
  

How to Apply

• In order to be considered for a Pell Grant you must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The FAFSA may be completed online on the FAFSA website, downloaded and mailed in or a paper copy may requested by calling 800-433-3243. Priority will be given to those who complete the FAFSA by March 1st for the following school year although it may be completed at any time during the year. You, and the school you plan to attend, will be notified by mail of your award amount.