Undergraduate students who can demonstrate financial need and are United States citizens can be awarded a Pell Grant that will cover virtually any college expense, such as books, living expenses, and tuition. It can be awarded to both public and private Title IV eligible universities.
Must Enroll in a Degree or Certificate Program
To accept federal student aid (Title IV funding) you must enroll in a college with a degree or professional certificate program that will be accredited by a regional accreditation body that the U.S. Department of Education accepts.
Free Application For Student Aid (FAFSA)
You can apply online at fafsa.ed.gov by filling out the Free Application For Student Aid, and you will need last year’s tax return to gain a positive Pell Grant eligibility status. The application process can be done within 30 minutes, but must be done at least 60 days before school starts so that the Federal government has a chance to get you into the system.
Facts About the Pell Grant
If there is a family contribution of less than 4,000 dollars, independent students that have no dependents that made less than 7,000 dollars may receive the maximum Pell Grant amount. From that point the maximum amount is reduced in proportion to the previous year’s income that may be over 7,000 dollars, and any monies contributed by your family that may be over 4,000 dollars.
Drug Convictions
Drug convictions may make you ineligible for any type of federal student aid. The mindset is if you did not attend rehab you might still be an addict and could use parts of your grant monies to solicit drugs.
Academic Progress
To remain eligible for the Pell Grant you must maintain a “C” average and show academic progress towards your degree or certificate. Each college or university will determine what academic progress means to that particular student. Poor attendance in the classroom, not taking required tests on time, missed assignments, poor attitude are all taken into consideration.
Conclusion
Students who take their lives seriously that want to buckle down in their studies to get ahead in the world of employment or entrepreneurship will have no problem getting approved for the Pell Grant. Showing the proper attitude to your superiors in the college academic world will make the right impression giving you a leg up on your dreams and aspirations, and receiving a Pell Grant award will only encourage the continuation of such a practice.