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GrantU.S. Department of EducationIncome-based

Federal Pell Grant

The largest federal grant for undergraduates. It does not have to be repaid. If the FAFSA shows you have need, the grant is awarded — it is not a contest.

Typical award

Up to $7,395 / year

Time to apply

30–60 min

Ease

Easy apply
File the FAFSA

Why this is (relatively) easy

Not competitive. File the free FAFSA; if you qualify, you receive it. Also unlocks most state grants.

Who usually qualifies

  • Undergraduates without a bachelor's degree
  • U.S. citizens or eligible non-citizens
  • Enrolled in an eligible college, community college, or career program
  • Financial need based on the FAFSA Student Aid Index

What to have ready

  • Social Security number
  • Federal tax info (or non-filer status)
  • List of schools you may attend

Steps

  1. 1

    Go to StudentAid.gov — never a look-alike site that charges a fee.

  2. 2

    Complete the FAFSA. There is no application fee.

  3. 3

    Add every school you might attend so they can send an aid offer.

  4. 4

    Accept the Pell Grant on the school's financial aid portal.

Deadline: FAFSA for 2026–27 is due June 30, 2027; states often earlier. Official program page

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