The Federal Pell Grant is the foundational piece of need-based federal financial aid and one of the most important resources for lower-income students pursuing college. Here is everything you need to know.
What the Pell Grant Is
The Pell Grant is a federal need-based grant program administered by the U.S. Department of Education. Unlike student loans, Pell Grants do not need to be repaid — they are free money awarded based on demonstrated financial need. The maximum Pell Grant award for the 2025–2026 academic year is $7,395. The actual amount awarded depends on your Student Aid Index (SAI), the cost of attendance at your school, your enrollment status (full-time vs. part-time), and whether you are enrolled for a full academic year.
Who Qualifies
Pell Grant eligibility requires: enrollment as an undergraduate student in a qualifying degree or certificate program, U.S. citizenship or eligible non-citizen status, a valid Social Security number, demonstration of financial need through the FAFSA, and not already holding a bachelor's degree or higher. Income thresholds for full Pell awards vary but families earning under approximately $60,000 per year typically qualify for maximum or near-maximum awards.
How to Apply
There is no separate Pell Grant application — eligibility is determined automatically when you submit the FAFSA. Your Student Aid Index (SAI) from the FAFSA determines your Pell eligibility. A SAI of zero qualifies you for the maximum Pell Grant; higher SAI values result in lower or no Pell Grant award.
How Long You Can Receive Pell Grants
You can receive Pell Grants for up to 12 semesters (equivalent to six years) of undergraduate study. Once you exceed the 12-semester lifetime limit, you are no longer eligible regardless of need. This limit applies across all schools you have attended.