The Federal Pell Grant is available by application to all undergraduate students. To apply for this grant, the student must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form that can be accessed online or at the school's financial aid office. Students who are awarded a Pell grant typically come from low-income households where the expected family contribution is very little if any at all.
Any student who has applied for and is receiving funds from a Pell grant is also eligible to apply for the Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant, which can add another $200 to $4,000 to their award.
The Academic Competitiveness Grant is awarded only to undergraduate freshman and sophomores who have extraordinary academic records and achievements. These students typically have demonstrated leadership and service to their schools and communities. To be eligible for this award the student must also have challenging financial circumstances and qualify to receive a Pell grant.
The National Science and Mathematics Access to Retain Talent Grant (SMART) is awarded to undergraduate juniors and seniors; grants up to $4,000 can be given. The eligible applicant must be completing a program of study in computer sciences, engineering, mathematics, or sciences. This grant also requires that the student be eligible for a Pell grant.