This is a federally funded program for students with extreme financial need. Application is made by using the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Federal legislation limits Federal Pell Grant funds to students who have not earned a bachelor's degree. The student's Expected Family Contribution, estimated costs, and enrollment status determine the amount of the Federal Pell Grant.
Beginning in Summer 2012, the Federal Pell Grant will be disbursed only if you have not already received the lifetime maximum amount which is the equivalent of twelve semesters full-time enrollment awards.
The FAFSA processor will begin to calculate the percentage amount you have received, and the maximum is capped at 600%. The percentage received is based on the annual award at full-time enrollment status. For example, if you are awarded full-time for the two semesters in the 2011-2012 academic year, the percentage used is 100%. If you are awarded for only 9 credits for two semesters, the percentage used for the academic year is 75%.
This cap on Federal Pell Grants was created by the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2012 (Public Law 112-74). This change affects all students regardless of when or where they received their first Federal Pell Grant. Students who are currently receiving the Federal Pell Grant in the 2011-2012 academic year and who have already used 600% of their Pell Grant eligibility will no longer be eligible to receive a Pell Grant starting Summer 2012.