Pell Grants are a form of need-based financial aid that the U.S. federal government provides to undergraduate students to help them pay for college. The grants are named after former U.S. Senator Claiborne Pell, who sponsored the legislation that created the program in 1972.
To be eligible for a Pell Grant, a student must demonstrate financial need by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form. The amount of the grant is based on a student’s financial need, the cost of attendance at the school they plan to attend, and whether the student plans to attend school full-time or part-time.
For the 2021-2022 academic year, the maximum Pell Grant award is $6,495. However, the actual amount of the grant a student receives may be lower depending on their financial need and the cost of attendance at their school.
Pell Grants can be used to pay for tuition, fees, and other educational expenses, such as textbooks, room and board, and transportation. Unlike loans, Pell Grants do not have to be repaid, making them an important source of financial assistance for low-income students who may not be able to afford college otherwise.
Pell Grants are administered by the U.S. Department of Education and are available to students attending eligible colleges and universities. Students must apply for Pell Grants each year they are enrolled in school to be considered for the grant.
