High-school graduates entering college should apply for free Pell Grants.
The U.S. government sponsors federal loan, grant and work-study programs for college. Students with financial need often rely on these programs to pay college tuition. Those fortunate enough to get a grant do not have to repay the funds. The Pell Grant exists for students with exceptional financial need who have not yet earned a bachelor's degree. Needy applicants should work with their school's financial aid office to apply for a federal Pell Grant.
Instructions
1. Apply to a school that participates in the United States Department of Education programs for financial aid. Almost all two-year and four-year colleges and universities participate in the federal program. The federal government provides the federal Pell Grant and other grant programs. Ask the financial aid office at the school where you are enrolled or have been accepted if you are not sure about the specifics of the school's aid programs.
2. Ask your school financial aid office about its own application deadlines for financial aid. Schools often have a deadline earlier than the federal deadline. You must meet the earlier deadline to maintain eligibility for the Pell Grant and other federal student aid. Use the "Application Deadlines" page of the Department of Education Free Application for Federal Student Aid website (see Resources) to determine the federal application deadline. Submit your FAFSA application before all deadlines for the current school year.
3. Obtain a copy of the FAFSA application. Students use the FAFSA to apply for all the federal aid programs. If you qualify, the federal government will use your FAFSA application to approve you for a Pell Grant as part of your overall financial aid award. The Department of Education provides an online FAFSA application. You can also obtain a copy of the FAFSA from your school's financial aid office, by calling 800-433-3243 or by downloading the document from the "FAFSA Filing Options" web page (www.fafsa.ed.gov).
4. Use the FAFSA "Dependency Status Worksheet" to determine your dependency status. Applicants with dependency status must include parental income on the FAFSA. Gather the required income documents and related information to fill out the FAFSA. Fill out the FAFSA form. Use the following address if mailing in your financial aid application:
Federal Student Aid Programs
P.O. Box 4692
Mount Vernon, IL 62864-4692
800-433-3243
5. Wait for your Student Aid Report from the Department of Education to see whether you qualify for a Pell Grant or other financial aid. Your school will send you additional information and tell you obtain your financial aid award.
Tags: Pell Grant, Department Education, FAFSA application, financial office, Grant other