Apply for a Federal Pell Grant Online
A Pell Grant is federal student aid available to low-income undergraduate and some graduate students. The grants are based on need. An inability to pay for higher education does not guarantee a Pell Grant.
Instructions
1. Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. Before applying for a Pell Grant, you have to complete the FAFSA (see Resources section).
2. Complete the PIN application page. Create your PIN on the FAFSA website. Your PIN is your signature on the application, so keep the number secure.
3. Check the deadline date. After you have a PIN, search for the deadline link icon. Click the icon and find your state's deadline date. If your state is not listed or the information says "Check with your financial aid administrator," contact your school's financial aid office.
4. Complete the FAFSA. Click the icon "Filling Out a FAFSA." Complete the application. The FAFSA requires a lot of personal information, so save your information every few questions to avoid grief if the system crashes.
5. Print your Student Aid Report. After completing the FAFSA, print a copy of your SAR, which serves as your copy of information submitted.
6. Follow up on your application. It takes about two to three weeks to process. Check the status at the FAFSA website by visiting the "follow-up" section. When a decision is made, the award amount (if applicable) is sent to your desired school. The school notifies you of your Pell Grant amount, which does not have to be repaid, and other financial aid.
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