Federal Grants are free funds, also known as "gift aid", that do not have to be repaid. Federal Grants are need-based, so eligibility is determined from information provided on the FAFSA.
The Pell Grant is awarded assuming full-time enrollment in 12 or more units each semester. There is no minimum number of units required to receive the grant, however, the amount a student receives is determined by the student’s enrollment per semester. Students who enroll in less than 12 units per semester will receive a prorated amount of the Pell Grant. In some cases, a student may no longer be eligible for the Pell Grant if enrolled less than full-time.
The Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2012 (Public Law 112-74) made significant changes to federal student financial assistance programs. Federal regulations limit students to a lifetime maximum Pell Grant of 12 semesters/six years or full time equivalent (600%). Once you reach the 600% limit, you will be ineligible to receive Pell Grant. Student eligibility will include all years of the student’s receipt of Federal Pell Grant funding at all educational institutions.
The Department of Education notifies students about the percentage of Federal Pell Grant Lifetime Eligibility Used (LEU). You can view your Pell LEU on the National Student Loan Data System.
Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG)
