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College grants

Start with money that usually does not need to be repaid.

Grants can come from the federal government, states, schools, employers, and private organizations. Most require the FAFSA or another aid application.

Use the FAFSA guide Find scholarships
College grant awards reducing tuition costs

2026–27 Federal Pell Grant

The maximum Federal Pell Grant is $7,395 for the award year running July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2027. Your amount depends on eligibility, enrollment intensity, cost of attendance, and other federal rules.

Review Pell Grant eligibility

Major federal grant programs

Need-based

Federal Pell Grant

Primarily for eligible undergraduate students with exceptional financial need. Pell Grants generally do not need to be repaid.

Campus-based

FSEOG

The Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant is administered by participating schools for students with exceptional need. Funds are limited.

FSEOG details
Service obligation

TEACH Grant

Provides up to $4,000 per year for eligible students preparing to teach in a high-need field. Failure to complete the service obligation can convert the grant to a loan.

TEACH Grant requirements
Newer eligibility

Eligible workforce programs

Beginning July 1, 2026, Pell eligibility expanded to certain eligible short-term workforce programs. Program and student requirements apply.

Federal program updates

State and school grants

States and colleges set their own programs, deadlines, residency rules, and funding limits. Some aid is first-come, first-served. Complete the FAFSA early, check your state aid agency, and review the financial aid pages for every school.

Old grant amounts age quickly

Do not rely on a dollar figure from an old article. State appropriations and school budgets change each year. Confirm the current award year, maximum amount, enrollment rules, and application deadline directly with the program.

When a grant may have to be repaid

Grants are usually gift aid, but repayment can be required in circumstances such as:

  • Withdrawing early from the program or school
  • Changing enrollment status after disbursement
  • Receiving outside aid that changes eligibility
  • Failing a service obligation attached to the grant
  • Receiving an overpayment because information was incorrect or changed

How to maximize grant eligibility

  1. Submit the FAFSA as early as possible. The federal deadline is not the only deadline.
  2. Complete state applications. Some states require a separate form, school list, certification, or deadline.
  3. Meet school priority dates. Campus-based funds can run out.
  4. Review every message. Respond quickly to verification or document requests.
  5. Report changed circumstances. Ask the school whether a professional-judgment review is appropriate.
  6. Reapply every year. Eligibility and award amounts can change annually.