Student-centric advice and objective recommendations
Higher education has never been more confusing or expensive. Our goal is to help you navigate the very big decisions related to higher ed with objective information and expert advice. Each piece of content on the site is original, based on extensive research, and reviewed by multiple editors, including a subject matter expert. This ensures that all of our content is up-to-date, useful, accurate, and thorough.
Our reviews and recommendations are based on extensive research, testing, and feedback. We may receive commission from links on our website, but that doesn’t affect our editors’ opinions. Our marketing partners don’t review, approve or endorse our editorial content. It’s accurate to the best of our knowledge when posted. You can find a complete list of our partners here.
Pell Grant: Everything You Need to Know
As you look into funding options for college, you’ll notice one of the most ubiquitous sources of student aid to be the Pell Grant. But what is the Pell Grant, and how can it help you? In this guide, we’ll go over who offers the funds, who can receive it, and what it can be used for. We’ll also go over how much you can earn and a whole lot more. Let’s get into it!
Also see: Scholarships360’s free scholarship search tool
At a glance
The Pell Grant is a form of federal need-based aid awarded by the U.S. Department of Education. Students can use these funds towards educational expenses such as tuition, room and board, fees, textbooks, and more. Since it is a grant rather than a loan, students will not have to repay any of the funds from a Pell Grant.
How much is the Pell Grant worth?
The U.S. Department of Education uses the information on your FAFSA to determine your Pell Grant eligibility. Students can be eligible for anywhere between $0 and $7,395 as of the 2023-2024 school year. So, assuming this amount remained constant, and you qualified for the maximum amount every year, it could be worth up to $29,580 over the course of a four-year education.
Am I eligible for the Pell Grant?
Students who are
- Eligible for federal financial aid
- Enrolled in undergraduate programs in the U.S.
- Must be a United States citizen or an eligible non-citizen
The U.S. Department of Education uses the information on your FAFSA to determine your eligibility. They base their decision on a combination of factors, including your family’s income, expenses, and available assets. Students with high financial need will receive the maximum amount. The best way to find out your Pell Grant eligibility is to fill out the FAFSA today and see where you stand.
Eligibility may fluctuate by year
Remember – the Pell Grant does not renew automatically. You’ll have to fill out the FAFSA every year in order to receive it. If your family’s financial situation changes in your following years of college, your eligibility may change as well.
As a result, you shouldn’t count on your first year grant to be equal to the next three years. Make sure that you plan accordingly in order to cultivate a secure financial situation.
How to apply for the Pell Grant
Applying for the Pell Grant is surprisingly convenient; you won’t have to fill out any additional applications, as you are automatically considered upon completing the FAFSA. So, in order to apply and receive an almost-instant decision regarding your eligibility, all you have to do is fill out the FAFSA!
Even if you are not approaching your first year of college, you can fill out the FAFSA just to get an idea of whether you will be eligible. It is entirely free and the data you receive will be a good predictor of your future results.
How is the Pell Grant distributed?
Typically, the federal government will distribute your Pell Grant directly to the college you are studying at. It will show up on your statement as a credit and no further action will be required. It’s convenient and typically pretty seamless. If you find that the credit on your statement does not match up with your results from the FAFSA, make sure to contact your financial aid office immediately.
Frequently asked questions about Pell Grants
Is there a lifetime limit for Pell Grant funds?
Can I use the Pell Grant for coding bootcamps?
Can I use the Pell Grant for certificate programs?
What is the minimum GPA for a Pell Grant?
Do I have to reapply for the Pell Grant?
Can I receive a Pell Grant if I go to school out-of-state?
Can I use a Pell Grant to fund my semester abroad?
Does the Pell Grant count as taxable income?