In order to qualify for a Pell Grant, a student must demonstrate financial need, be a U.S. citizen or an eligible non citizen, and have a high school diploma or a GED.
Eligible applicants are determined using a precise criterion that's controlled by the U.S. Department of Education.
The U.S. Department of Education's formula is based on the finances of the applicant, the income of their family and the Expected Family Contribution (EFC).
The overall tuition of the college or university--and the amount of credits a student intends on taking (making them either full-time or part-time student)--are additional features that help determine an applicant's eligibility.
A student must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and submit it by the date that it's due, in order to qualify for a Pell Grant.
After the FAFSA has been submitted and processed, a Student Aid Report (SAR) is sent to the student. In some cases, an Institutional Student Information Record (ISIR) is sent to the school where they plan to enroll (these documents notify the student of their Pell Grant qualification).
Students who demonstrate significant financial need may also be eligible to receive the Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant in addition to the Pell Grant.