Pell Grants
What is a Pell Grant?
A Pell Grant is a federal grant that does not have to be repaid. These grants are typically awarded only to undergraduate students. Under certain conditions, students enrolled in a post-baccalaureate teacher credential program may be eligible to receive Pell Grants. For many students, Pell Grants provide a foundation of financial aid to which other aid may be added.
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 on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The formula will produce an Expected Family Contribution amount, which your school will use to determine your eligibility for loans and grants. Your school will inform you via an award letter if you qualify for a Pell Grant.
How much money can I get?
The maximum award for the 2007-2008 award year (July 1, 2007 to June 30, 2008) is $4,130. You can receive only one Pell Grant in an award year. How much you get will depend on your Expected Family Contribution figure, the cost of attendance, the period of time (number of semesters, quarters) in which you enroll, and the number of credits in which you enroll for each term. You may not receive Pell Grant funds from more than one school at a time.
How will I be paid?
Your school can either 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 award will be.
Can I receive a Pell Grant if I am enrolled less than half-time?
Yes, provided you are an undergraduate student and otherwise eligible to receive a Pell Grant. You won't receive as much as if you were enrolled full time since your school must disburse your Pell Grant funds in accordance with your enrollment status. Post-baccalaureate students enrolled in teacher credential programs must be enrolled at least half time to receive a Pell Grant.