Grants
Grants (money for college you do not pay back) are given by the federal and state governments, as well as by colleges. The largest grant programs are sponsored by the federal government and are based on need.
- Federal Pell Grants (maximum $4,050) - Pell Grants are the largest federal grant program in the U.S. which makes awards to undergraduates based on financial need. To qualify, a student must have applied to an eligible college and filled out the FAFSA.
- Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants ($100-$4000 depending on the college) – This grant supplies supplemental funds to Pell Grants recipients who show a high level of need.
- Academic Competitive Grants (Up to $750 for first-year students and up to $1,300 for second-year students) – These grants are awarded to first and second year undergraduates who have received a Pell Grant and are enrolled full-time in a degree program and have completed a college prep curriculum in high school (your guidance counselor can help you determine that).
- SMART (National Science and Mathematics Access to Retain Talent) Grants (Up to $4000 per year for third and fourth year students) – SMART Grants are awarded to students who are eligible for Pell Grants and enrolled full-time in an eligible degree program. They are awarded to students majoring in the following fields: Computer Science, Foreign Language, Life Sciences Mathematics, Physical Sciences, Technology, or Multi-disciplinary Studies.
You don't have to complete any application for these except for filling out the FAFSA. Because the funds for supplemental grants are limited, students who apply early to colleges have a better chance of getting them. Find out more about these grants at the federal government's student aid website studentaid.ed.gov.