Federal Pell Grant
A Federal Pell Grant, unlike a loan, does not have to be repaid. Generally, Pell Grants are awarded only to undergraduate students - those who have not earned a bachelor’s or graduate degree. In some limited cases, however, you might receive a Pell Grant if you're enrolled in a post-baccalaureate teacher certificate program.
Pell Grants are usually a foundation of federal student aid, to which aid from other federal and nonfederal sources might be added. If you're eligible for a Pell Grant, you'll receive the full amount you qualify for.
How do I qualify?
To determine if you’re eligible, the U.S. Department of Education uses a standard formula, established by Congress, to evaluate the information you report when you apply. The formula produces an EFC number. Your SAR contains this number, in the upper right portion of page 1. This number will determine if you’re eligible for a Pell Grant and for how much.
How much money can I get?
Pell Grants will depend on program funding. The maximum Pell Grant for the 2004-2005 award year was $4,050. How much you get will depend not only on your EFC but also on your cost of attendance, whether you’re a full-time or part-time student, and whether you attend school for a full academic year or less. You may receive only one Pell Grant in an award year, and you may not receive Pell Grant funds from more than one school at a time.
How will I be paid?
Your school may credit the Pell Grant funds to your school account, pay you directly (usually by check), or combine these methods. The school must tell you in writing how and when you’ll be paid and how much your Pell Grant will be. Schools must pay you at least once per term (semester, trimester, or quarter). Schools that don’t use formally defined, traditional terms must pay you at least twice per academic year.
Can I receive a Federal Pell Grant if I’m enrolled less than half time?
Yes, if you’re otherwise eligible. You won’t receive as much as if you were enrolled full time, but your school must disburse your Pell Grant funds in accordance with your enrollment status and can’t refuse you an award simply because you’re enrolled less than half time.
