Government Grants for College

Federal and State Financial Aid

If you prove that you are in financial need, Government grants for college can cover more than half of your tuition -- if using government aid responsibly, you will never have to pay back the grants. Qualification for Government tuition aid is determined after completing your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Fill out your FAFSA at fafsa.ed.gov

The Federal Pell Grant

After completing your FAFSA, you will be presented with an Expected Family Contribution (EFC) score. The lower the EFC, the better. The FAFSA inquires your financial assets from the year before. Depending on your dependence status, you may also be required to submit your parent's or guardian's finance history as well -- up to the age of 25.

I wrote up a guide to dependent and independent student requirements on the government student loans page.

If your EFC score is '0' or very low (under 500), Pell will pay for around half of your tuition costs in most cases. Colleges or universities that charge higher than normal tuition rates would be the exception. Currently, the Pell grant pays up to $2,775.00 per semester for full time students. If attending on a full time basis, students will only qualify for the Pell 2 semesters per year, for a maximum of $5,550.00.

State Level College Grants

State grants (if they exist in your state) are automatically added to your financial aid package once you complete your FAFSA. If your State has any kind of tuition grant program, it's best to fill out the FAFSA as early as possible -- these funds are usually limited, unlike the Pell. Students are awarded on a first come - first serve basis, but is ultimately determined by your school.

Government grants for college at state level go by various names and qualifications.

collegescholarships.org has a rundown of each State's programs
(no registration required).

Misc. College Grants

Various government grants for college change from year to year. The best thing you can do for yourself is to FILL OUT YOUR FAFSA EARLY!!! The earlier the better. It's free money, don't procrastinate on this one.

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