DIVISION OF STUDENT FINANCIAL AID

Pell Grant

The Pell Grant is considered a form of "gift aid" and does not have to be repaid.  Pell Grants are awarded to undergraduate students who have not earned their first bachelor's degree and who exhibit exceptional financial need.  After you complete and submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), the U.S. Department of Education uses a formula established by Congress to calculate your and your family's "expected family contribution" (EFC) for the upcoming year.  The EFC figure determines whether or not you qualify for a Pell Grant.

Pell amounts vary from $400 to the maximum amount determined annually by Congress, which is scheduled at $4731 per year for the 2008-2009 college academic year.  Pell Grant awards are reduced proportionately for students who are enrolled less than full-time.

Pell Grants are tentatively posted to your expense slip based on your planned enrollment as stated on your Data Form submitted to Financial Aid.  Your actual Pell award amount is based on your actual enrollment level as of the last day of drop/add of classes and will be credited to your student account the day after drop/add each quarter.  Your awarded Pell Grant will be corrected (reduced) if you are reported as never having attended a class or if you have a backdated add or drop for a quarter within the current academic year.