Federal Grants

The FAFSA determines student eligibility for the federal and state grant programs described below. Grant funds do not have to be repaid

Federal Pell Grant 

  • The Federal Pell Grant is a need based grant given to undergraduate students working on a first bachelor's degree. Eligibility is determined through a standard formula established by Congress, which is used to evaluate the information reported on the FAFSA. This will produce an Expected Family Contribution (EFC) number. The amount of Pell Grant a student is eligible to receive depends on the EFC and enrollment status.

  • Pell Grant is prorated for three-quarter, half time, or less-than-half time enrollment. Students must be enrolled full time in order to receive the full amount of the Pell Grant listed on their aid offers.

  • Effective Fall 2012, a student's Pell Grant eligibility cannot exceed 600% which is the equivalent of 12 full time semesters. 

Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (SEOG)

  • The Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (SEOG) is a need based grant offered to undergraduate students who are enrolled in a first bachelor's degree program and are Pell Grant eligible. Students with the highest need are given first priority.

  • SEOG funds are severely limited and are offered until the funds are depleted.

Alabama Student Assistance Program (ASAP)

  • Alabama Student Assistance Program (ASAP) is a need based grant offered to eligible Alabama residents seeking a first undergraduate degree and are Pell Grant recipients.

  • The amount of ASAP offered depends on the student's need, the amount of funds allocated to USA, and the availability of funds.