Pell Grant 2026: Eligibility Basics You Should Know

Disclaimer: This article is general information, not financial aid advice. Pell Grant amounts and eligibility rules are set by Congress and can change each award year. Verify current figures on StudentAid.gov.

The Federal Pell Grant is need-based aid for undergraduate students who have not yet earned a bachelor's degree. Unlike a loan, it generally does not have to be repaid, which makes it one of the most valuable forms of student aid.

Who Is Generally Eligible

• Undergraduate students without a bachelor's degree.
• Demonstrated financial need, as reflected through the FAFSA and your Student Aid Index.
• U.S. citizen or eligible noncitizen, with a valid Social Security number and FAFSA on file.
• Enrollment in an eligible program at a participating school.

How the Amount Is Set

The maximum Pell Grant amount is set each award year by Congress and can change. Your actual award depends on your financial need, cost of attendance, and enrollment status (full-time versus part-time). Students with the lowest SAI and the highest cost of attendance typically qualify for the most.

Year-Round and Lifetime Limits

Award rules have allowed some students to receive Pell for an additional term in a year under certain conditions, but there are lifetime limits on total Pell received. Ask your financial aid office how the rules apply to your schedule.

How to Apply

Complete the FAFSA at StudentAid.gov. If you are eligible, the grant is typically included in your school's aid offer automatically; you do not apply for Pell separately.