How to Get a Pell Grant When You Are Separated From Your Husband
The federal Pell Grant is a grant awarded to financially needy students to assist with paying for the cost of higher education. The maximum award amount changes on a yearly basis; however, only the most financially needy applicants receive the maximum award. If you are legally married when you apply for financial aid, your spouse's income must be reported and will be considered when your financial aid eligibility is determined. If you are separated, and your available financial resources have decreased as a result, you may be able to have your eligibility re-calculated by the financial aid office at your educational institution.
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Instructions
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Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA. The FAFSA may be completed online or you may request a paper application.
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Answer "yes" to the question on whether you are married. You must answer each question based on your status at the time you complete the application.
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Contact your school's financial aid office shortly after you submit the FAFSA. It usually takes less than a week to process your FAFSA. Make an appointment to speak with a financial aid counselor in person.
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Explain your situation to the financial aid officer. Most schools have a form that you can complete explaining a significant change in circumstances in your financial situation since filing the FAFSA. Indicate that you are separated and that you do not have access to your spouse's income if that is the case.
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Follow-up with your school's financial aid office by providing any additional documentation requested. If you have filed for divorce, for example, a copy of the divorce petition may be needed.
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Tips & Warnings
Although you may apply at any time, the priority deadline for federal student aid is March 1 for the school year. If possible, complete your FAFSA prior to that date.
School policies will vary on whether your separated status will allow a re-determination of your eligibility for a Pell Grant or for any other federal student aid.
