How to Check My Pell Grant Amount

Pell grants are need-based grants provided by the United States federal government to cover the costs associated with post-secondary education. The student must be enrolled in an accredited college (and not have earned a bachelor's degree), demonstrate financial need, be a U.S. citizen (certain exemptions may apply) and hold a high school diploma or GED. Unlike loans, Pell grants do not need to be paid back. The amount received depends on the student aid report, referred to as a SAR, which is sent to the attending college.

Things You'll Need

• Financial aid award letter

Instructions

1. Check with the financial aid office of your college two weeks after filing a Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA, if you filed electronically and three to four weeks if you filed a paper application.

2. Ask the financial aid representative for a report of your financial aid package. Once your school calculates the financial aid you qualify for, you will receive a financial aid award, but you may be able to get details prior to the mailing if you contact a representative directly.

3. Check the financial aid award letter for the amount of your Pell grant. This will be listed as a source of financial aid. It is generally listed by semester, but read carefully to determine whether the amount is for the semester or the entire school year. If you have questions, call the financial aid office.

References

• What is a Pell Grant
• College Board (Pell Grant)