SEOG is the Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant. This grant is made available for all in need to apply. It was established as a grant for those who have a real financial need to fund their undergraduate education.
To apply for this grant, you do not need to have letters of recommendations, nor do you need to write an essay. This is an award that is given away to those who are in need. You fill out the Free Application For Student Aid (FAFSA). Everyone applying for federal Pell grants and student loans must fill out the FAFSA. If you are eligible to receive a federal Pell grant, you are eligible to receive the SEOG. When you fill out the FAFSA, you will automatically be considered for SEOG funds.
Being the early bird will benefit you a great deal. Complete the FAFSA on time. If you make the priority deadline in February, you will be considered for this grant. The grant is not guaranteed. In fact, once the funds have been allotted for the year, no more grants will be awarded, even if you show a great financial need. It is given on a need base but also on the first-come, first-served policy.
You are required to be enrolled in school or enrolling at the time of disbursement to receive this grant. Another requirement to receive the SEOG is that you be enrolled for the full year. You may qualify for the grant if you are a part-time student, but the amount will be prorated to that of a part-time student. The amounts of this award can range from hundreds of dollars to thousands and is divided into two semesters or three quarters, depending on your school. You cannot receive the funding if you are in a program to receive your second associate or bachelor's degree.
The SEOG is not a one-time grant; however, there is no guarantee that you will receive this grant yearly. If you remain Pell-grant eligible, you are eligible to apply for this grant as well. It is up to the committee to decide who receives the monies from this grant. Recipients remain in good standing academically with their schools, show a great need for the funding and submit their applications within a timely manner.