Federal Grants

Federal grants provide money to eligible students to use for higher education programs. Unlike a student loan, grants are awards that don’t have to be repaid. The federal government administers four grant programs:

• Federal Pell Grants. Usually awarded to undergraduate students with great financial need. These are students who haven’t earned a bachelor’s, graduate or professional degree.
• Federal Supplemental Education Opportunity Grants. Grants provide additional funds for Pell Grant recipients.
• The Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education Grant Program. Provides grant funds to students enrolled in teaching programs. Students will teach in a high-need elementary or secondary school.
• Iraq and Afghanistan Service Grant award. Awarded to students who lost a military parent or guardian during military service in Iraq or Afghanistan after 9/11.

This benefit helps eligible recipients by providing additional money for education programs.

When applying for federal grants, start by submitting a Free Application for Federal Student Aid form. Schools use the information on the FAFSA® form to determine your eligibility for a Pell Grant. They can also determine how much you’re eligible to receive.

• Federal Grant Programs PDF
• FAFSA® form