How to Apply For Federal Pell Grants

Let’s first pause to congratulate you on being accepted to college. Next, let’s help you apply for federal Pell grants. Each year, college tuition for both private and public institutions is raised at an average 4-8%. Considering the yearly cost of attendance, the hike in fees is typically in the thousands of dollars range. In today’s economic climate, it is increasingly difficult for families and working students to afford living expenses in addition to college tuition. Fortunately, financial aid is available via specialized loans and government grants. Let’s take a look at what it takes to apply for federal Pell grants.What is a Pell Grant?Named after former Connecticut Senator Claiborne Pell, these dollars for education are in the form of a grant. Hence, they are dollars that do not have to be repaid to the government once the academic study has been completed.Can anybody receive a Pell Grant?While the idea of having a grant pay for your college education is appealing to nearly every prospective e student, not everyone fills the eligibility requirements. Foremost a student must establish financial need. That is, neither a parent nor student who earn above a particular income line may receive grant funding.Nonetheless, it is always worthwhile to apply for federal Pell grants. Even if the award is only ten dollars, it is still a savings.How do you apply for federal Grants?In order to apply you must meet certain requirements. First, you must have a High School diploma or GED equivalent. Second, an applicant must be actually be enrolled with an educational institution to receive a degree. The student must have a valid social security number.If you are male, you must register with Selective Service. That is, you must be willing to be called upon to serve as a member of the armed forces of America.Next, you must make satisfactory academic progress. In other words, you must do well in school if you expect to apply for federal Pell grants in each consecutive year of your undergraduate study. The government makes it clear that a Pell grant is not free money. A grant is still earned pay.Lastly, you must fill out a FAFSA.What is FAFSA?The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is available online or at through any institution. Be wary of filing dates and include all pertinent financial information as requested.If you take the time to Apply For Federal Pell Grants your chances are very high that you could be given money to help with your school expenses. It is a great opportunity!