In order to qualify for state and federal financial aid, you must meet certain eligibility guidelines:
Distance learners also may be eligible for some forms of financial aid.
If you have any questions about your eligibility to receive state or federal financial aid, contact a financial aid administrator at the institution you are interested in attending, or contact the Office of Higher Education.
Conditions for Receiving Federal Aid
To receive a Federal Pell Grant and/or apply to other federal programs, the student must:
- Be an U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen.
- Be an undergraduate student or applying as an undergraduate for the Pell Grant. Graduate students are eligible for work-study and student loans.
- Either be registered with the Selective Service (for all males born on or after January 1, 1960, who are at least 18 and not currently on active duty in the Armed Forces), or sign a statement of registration status indicating that he is not required to register.
- Be enrolled in a program leading to a certificate, diploma, or degree at any institution eligible to participate in the Pell Grant Program.
- Maintain satisfactory academic progress as defined by the grant program.
- Sign a statement indicating that the student is not in default on a federal loan, and that the financial aid will be used only for educational purposes.
- Not be convicted for the possession or sale of illegal drugs while receiving federal financial aid.