Federal educational grants are an excellent way to finance your degree and make college more affordable. Every year, there are hundreds of federal grants available to students from all walks of life. These grants can be used to pursue any degree from an associate’s degree to a doctorate.
The federal government provides billions of dollars in grant money to students each year. With so many grants available, it can be difficult to choose the right one for your needs. This article will detail eight of the most popular federal educational grants.
Pell Grant
The Pell Grant, a federal grant for undergraduates, aids low-income students in paying for college. For the 2020-2021 academic year, the maximum award is $6,345. It’s awarded based on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Eligibility depends on specific financial and academic criteria.
Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG)
The Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant is a grant provided by the federal government to help students in need pay for college. This grant is specifically aimed at students who have a high financial need. The amount of the grant depends on a student’s need and the availability of funds from the college. In general, the maximum award is $4,000 per year.
Iraq and Afghanistan Service Grant
The Iraq and Afghanistan Service Grant assists students whose parent or guardian, a U.S. armed forces member, died in service in Iraq or Afghanistan after Sept. 11, 2001. Eligibility requires students to have been under 24 or enrolled in college at the time of the parent’s or guardian’s death. The maximum award is $5,310.
TEACH Grant
The TEACH Grant is designed to help students who plan to become teachers. The grant provides up to $4,000 per year for tuition, fees, and other educational costs. To be eligible for the grant, students must agree to teach in a high-need subject at a low-income school for at least four years.
Academic Competitiveness Grant
The Academic Competitiveness Grant targets students with outstanding academic achievements. Eligibility requires completion of a rigorous high school curriculum and enrollment in an undergraduate program. The maximum award is $4,000 per year to help finance your degree..
SMART Grant
The SMART Grant offers up to $4,000 annually to students studying science, mathematics, technology, engineering, or a foreign language. Eligibility requires academic merit and a plan to teach in a high-need field.
National Science and Mathematics Access to Retain Talent (SMART) Grant
The National Science and Mathematics Access to Retain Talent (SMART) Grant is a grant that provides up to $4,000 per year to students pursuing a degree in a science, technology, engineering, or mathematics field. To be eligible for this grant, students must have at least a 3.0 GPA, enroll in a rigorous program of study, and demonstrate financial need.
TRIO Programs
TRIO programs are a combination of federal outreach and student services grants designed to help low-income and disadvantaged students prepare for college. The program provides services such as academic counseling, tutoring, and mentoring to help students succeed in their educational pursuits.
Final Thoughts
Federal educational grants provide a great way for students to make college more affordable. There are hundreds of grants available, ranging from grants for low-income students to grants for students pursuing specific fields of study.
One of the most important considerations when looking to finance your degree is to make sure that you meet the necessary eligibility requirements. By taking the time to review the different grants available, you can make sure that your federal grant application is as strong as possible.
