When reviewing your financial aid offer letter from your college, you may notice that you automatically received the Pell Grant without applying for it. But what is the Pell Grant and how does it work? We break it down!

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What is the Pell Grant?

The Pell Grant is a form of federal financial aid awarded to students with significant financial need. Unlike loans, Pell Grant funds do not need to be repaid. Once an eligible student completes or renews their FAFSA, these funds are awarded automatically and appear on their college’s financial aid offer letter.

How much money will I get through the Pell Grant?

Many factors—such as your Student Aid Index (SAI), financial need, your enrollment status (full-time or part-time), and your college’s cost of attendance—determine how much you may receive through the Pell Grant. Since each of these factors can change every academic year, the amount of Pell Grant funds you may receive can vary. For the 2025–2026 academic year, the maximum Federal Pell Grant amount is $7,395. While this is the maximum amount, some students are eligible to receive up to 150% of their scheduled grant through the “Year-Round Pell” program. If you qualify for more funds, your school can help determine how much and how it will be disbursed according to the grant’s schedule.

Am I eligible for the Pell Grant?

Eligibility for the Pell Grant is determined by completing or renewing the FAFSA, as well as your financial need, family size, or household income. To estimate how much you may receive in Pell Grant funds if you’re an eligible student, you can use the 2026–2027 Pell Grant and SAI Eligibility Guide from FSA.

How do I apply for the Pell Grant?

You don’t need to apply specifically for the Pell Grant! As mentioned above, eligibility is determined by completing or renewing the FAFSA. If you meet all the eligibility requirements, you’ll receive the funds automatically and see the exact amount offered in your financial aid offer letter.

Do you have any questions about the Pell Grant or receiving financial aid for college? Connect with a Get Schooled Advisor.