Thursday 17 May 2012

Understanding The Pell Grant Requirements

By Gale Bedden


The Federal government issues the Pell Grant based on need for those entering college. This grant does not have to repaid, but you must meet certain Pell Grant requirements before you can receiving such aid. The maximum amount of it awarded in 2011-2012 was $5,550.

The first requirement is to show need, which is accomplished by your latest income tax return. The less money you made, the more the size of the award, if you were at or below poverty level, you will most likely receive the maximum amount. Fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid or the FAFSA online, which then calculates the amount you can receive based on your income.

You also need to be a United States citizen or eligible non-citizen in order to receive it. A non-citizen that is eligible requires the applicant to be living in the United States and applying to a college within the United States. In addition, you must have a high school diploma or GED, which is asked of you on the FAFSA. Your valid Social Security number is also needed before you can even apply for a student aid.

In order to receive one another requirement is that you're enrolled at least half-time in a college or university. In addition, you should be aware that graduate students cannot receive one of these grants, it is strictly for undergraduate students. It requires the student to keep a specified GPA or grade point average to receive funds on a regular basis.

These grants are also tied to the Select Services in regards to qualifications. Therefore if you are between the ages of 18 and 25 and also male, you must register with the Select Service. Females on the other hand do not need to register to receive funds. This is something to remember and be mindful of as you fill out your FAFSA online.

If a student has been convicted of selling drugs or possession of drugs it may affect eligibility. The timing of the conviction is normally the most important aspect in determining your aid eligibility. If you have been awarded one and then are convicted of drug-related offenses, your aid may be suspended, but you can have it reinstated at some point.

In order for one of these be awarded, the student must not have any previous student loans that are default. This must be rectified before aid will be granted, so calling your lender and finding out how to get the loan in good standing is vital. Sometimes it may be possible to put the loan in forbearance status and the lender can retroactive the dates so that you are in good standing and can then receive aid.

There are definitely Pell Grant requirements that may seem strict, but the benefits of receiving free money for college is well worth your time. You never have to repay a it and it can mean you do not have to take out as many student loans. Many people could not attend college at all without the help of the award monies.




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