What Prevents Students From Getting a Pell Grant?

High school graduates might qualify for a Pell Grant.

Federal Pell Grants help students pay for higher education. To qualify, you must demonstrate financial need based on your household income. Grant amounts vary, and cover study toward a first undergraduate degree. There are exceptions, such as for students in a teacher’s program. Some factors can prevent you from qualifying for a Pell Grant.

Incarceration

You cannot get a Pell Grant while incarcerated in a federal or state institution. You may qualify after serving your time, although you may not qualify if you were convicted of selling illegal drugs while receiving federal aid.

Illegal Residence

Illegal residents don’t qualify for a Pell Grant. You must be a United States citizen, hold a permanent resident card, be a U.S. national or have legal status as an eligible non-citizen, such as a qualifying refugee or victim of human trafficking.

Lack Social Security Number

Qualifying Pell Grant applicants must have a valid Social Security number.

High School Dropout

The program wants assurance that the grant recipient can benefit from the education, and is qualified to complete the education provided with the funds. Therefore, an applicant without a high school diploma or general education certificate may not qualify. There are provisions for home school students and for those completing coursework at an accredited education institution.

Failure to Register

Male applicants between the ages of 19 and 25 years, who aren't registered with the Selective Service are not eligible for the Pell Grant.

Failure to Enroll

Failure to enroll at one at a participating institutions in an accepted degree program makes you ineligible for the grant. The program won’t issue funds to applicants who are thinking of going to school but haven’t enrolled in a program.

Defaulted Loans

If you current are in default on a federal student loan, or owe a refund for a federal grant, you won’t qualify for a Pell Grant. Typically, the program requires you to sign a statement certifying you owe no funds toward federal grants or loans. You will also be required to sign an agreement that the Pell funds you receive will only be applied toward your qualifying education expenses.

References

• Federal Student Aid: Glossary
• Pell Grant Eligibility