How to Apply for a Pell Grant in Tennessee

A Pell Grant can be used for textbooks from the school bookstore.

Pell Grants are issued by the United States Government to students who demonstrate a financial need. The maximum a person can receive for the 2010-2011 school year is $5,550. The amount of money a person receives depends on the cost of the tuition, the income of the person and whether he is a full-time or part-time student. A Pell Grant does not have to be repaid. To qualify for a Pell Grant in Tennessee, you must attend an accredited school.

Instructions

1. Write down the names of the schools in Tennessee that you are interested in attending. You can select up to 10 schools to include on your Free Application for Federal Student Aid application for the Pell Grant. When your FAFSA application is processed, each school will receive the information. The information will let the school know if you qualified for the Pell Grant.

2. Gather your previous years tax return if you filed taxes. You will need to enter tax information onto the FAFSA form. If you are a dependent, you will need the information from your parents tax return. Have your parent with you when completing the FAFSA as your parent will need to answer additional questions.

3. Fill out the FAFSA application. Apply online by visiting fafsa.gov and select "Fill Out Your FAFSA." Follow the prompts and answer the questions displayed on the computer screen. Enter the names of the schools you are interested in. Once complete, the FAFSA will be submitted electronically. Pick up a paper FAFSA application at any Tennessee college or Tennessee library if you do not have access to a computer. Answer each question and mail to the address listed on the application.

4. Watch for an email to arrive stating the FAFSA has been processed. While waiting, narrow down your choices of schools. Your pell grant can only be used at one school at a time. Visit the financial aid office of the Tennessee school you wish to attend once you get the email. The information is electronically sent to the schools listed in the application. The staff will further process the FAFSA and inform you of the exact dollar amount you will receive in aid.

Tips & Warnings

• Libraries will often have computers available for you to use to fill out your FAFSA online.

References

• ED: Federal Pell Grant Program
• FAFSA: Federal Student Aid FAFSA
• Student Aid: Federal Pell Grant
• College Loan Consultant: What Does FAFSA Stand For

Resources

• 50 States: Tennessee Colleges and Universities
• The Pell: Tennessee Pell Grant
• Library Sites: Tennessee Libraries