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Am I eligible for the Pell Grant?

The Federal Pell Grant is money you don't have to pay back. It's for students working toward their first undergraduate degree or teaching credential, and is based on your FAFSA, financial need, and enrollment level.

Requirements

  • Submit a FAFSA yearly. 
  • Demonstrate financial need.
  • Be a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, or eligible non-citizen.
  • Have a valid Social Security Number.
  • Have a high school diploma or General Education Development (GED) certificate or demonstrate ability by passing an approved test.
  • Meet Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) Policy.
  • Be enrolled in an eligible post-secondary school.
  • Be working toward a first undergraduate degree or teaching credential.
  • Certify that the funds will be used only for educational purposes.

You can receive the Pell Grant for up to 12 full-time semesters.

Funds usually disburse 1-2 weeks after classes begin and are adjusted based on your enrollment after the Add/Drop period.

Ways to Contact Support for More Assistance

By Chat

Live chat support is available
Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–10 p.m. ET.

The UMGC Help Bot is available for FAQs 24/7.

By Phone

Call 855-655-8682 for student services (Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.-8 p.m. ET).

Call 888-360-8682 for technical support (24/7).

By Email

Email the support team or submit documents using the UMGC Help Center.