Pell Grants Worth $6,985 — See If You Qualify!
(UnitedCause.com) – Higher education may be expensive, but it doesn’t necessarily have to be inaccessible. Students from low-income backgrounds are cushioned by the government through financial aid programs to access and complete their undergraduate programs. The Pell Grant is a good example of the various financial assistance programs by the government for college students. Read on to familiarize yourself with the Pell Grant, the eligibility criteria, and the application process.
What is the Pell Grant, and Why Was It Established?
The Pell Grant is an annual federal aid education award designed to assist low-income students in completing their college studies. Named after Senator Claiborne Pell, the Pell Grant was introduced through the Higher Education Act of 1965. The award is granted to undergraduate students who have not earned a professional degree and show exceptional financial need. Students who apply for Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)will automatically be considered for Pell Grants.
Who Generally Qualifies for the Pell Grant?
The eligibility criteria for the Pell Grant include:
- A student with valid citizenship should not be in default of other federal loans.
- Federal Pell Grants are also for undergraduate students from disadvantaged backgrounds who have not earned a bachelor’s, professional, or graduate degree.
- Students enrolled in a post-baccalaureate teaching program. If a student has a record of incarceration for a sexual offense, they may not be eligible to receive a Pell Grant.
- Students who can prove that their expected family contribution is at or below $6,206 for the school year 2022-2023.
Unlike other student loans, a Federal Pell Grant does not have to be repaid unless a student drops out of school or changes from full-time to part-time status. A student may not receive a Pell Grant from more than one college at a time. The Pell grant can only be used for expenses like tuition, meals, room, and textbooks.
How to Apply for the Pell Grant
Students can apply for the Pell Grant by submitting a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form. The form provides schools with the requisite information to determine the student’s eligibility and how much they are eligible to receive. The maximum Pell Grant award is $6,895 for the academic year 2022-2023.
A college education is not inaccessible. You can pursue your dream professional degree and get a hold of the career path of your choice. Apply for a Pell Grant today and further your studies.
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