Undergraduate students and some graduate students can apply for the Pell Grant.
Approximately 5,400 colleges and universities are eligible to participate in the Pell Grant Program.
A Pell Grant applicant must be a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, or an eligible noncitizen. He or she must be enrolled in a program that will lead to a certificate, diploma or degree at an eligible institution, as well as maintain satisfactory academic progress as defined by the grant program. A statement indicating that the applicant is not in default on a federal loan, and that the financial aid will be used only for educational purposes, must be signed. Finally, applicants cannot be convicted for possessing or selling illegal drugs while receiving federal financial aid.
The amount of grant money awarded to the applicant depends on the student's expected family contribution, which is based on family income and other factors. Students with a total family income up to $50,000 may be eligible to receive Pell Grant funding, but most funding goes to students with a total family income below $20,000.
Your financial need is based on what is left after your expected family contribution has been subtracted from the cost of tuition.
Tuition costs at the student's chosen college and the student's enrollment status (part time or full time) are considered when determining the Pell Grant amount awarded.