MyGrant

Grants are generally awarded to students with financial need, for specific areas of study, or for maintaining a certain minimum grade point average, and do not have to be paid back. Most often grants are given out by colleges, federal and state governments, foundations, companies and other sources. Networking and research are the key; start with your counselor, places of worship and family & friends. Also, request publications for colleges you may attend, from the state you live in and/or where you plan to go to college. On time applications and follow up is important. If you receive a grant from an outside source, provide the information to the Office of Financial Aid at the college(s) where you have applied.

Before accepting a grant, it is a good idea to learn the terms. Here are few questions you may want to ask:

Is the grant renewable?
Will the grant requirements be reviewed, if so, when and how do I renew?
What expenses may I use the grant for?
What if I change majors, take time off, or study abroad?
Will it transfer to another school?
If the grant is lost and can it be regained?

Federal Pell Grant

The Pell Grant is given annually to the neediest students as determined by the FAFSA. The maximum grant for the 2008-2009 award year is $4,731.00. Pell Grant eligibility is good for the year, as long as you maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress (see your college Financial Aid Handbook for more details). The Pell Grant is granted at all colleges participating in the Federal Student Aid Program, and can generally only be received at one college at a time.

Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG)

The FSEOG, while federally funded, is a campus-based (specific to each college) program that allows the college to grant money to the neediest students on their campus. Not all colleges participate in the program and those that do may not always have funds available. Contact the Office of Financial Aid for participation and program eligibility.

State Grants

The individual states offer a variety of grants; some may be reciprocated in other states. It is a good idea to check with your birth state, states of residency and the state where you will be attending school. State Higher Education Office Search

Institutional Grants

Most colleges offer grants in a variety of areas; financial need, grade point average, field of study, gender, religious affiliation, race and country of origin. To obtain a list of grants, visit the college web site and/or contact the Office of Financial Aid for a list. You may also want to contact the department that is offering the grant to express your interest in being considered. Each school may have a Grant Application Process, so do not miss the institutional dates and deadlines, as some may occur very early in the admissions process.