GRANTS FOR COLLEGE STUDENTS
Federal grants are a type of financial aid and considered “free money” since they do not have to be repaid.* Since grants for college students are primarily awarded based on financial need, the U.S. Department of Education (ED) offers a variety of federal grants to meet the demand.
The gateway to applying for grants for college, student loans and other financial aid is to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA, form. Students who plan on attending four-year colleges or universities, community colleges or career schools are encouraged to complete the FAFSA to see if they qualify. Here are the types of grants for college students that are available and the annual award amount for each:
FEDERAL GRANTS FOR COLLEGE STUDENTS
This grant is provided by the federal government to matriculated students who meet the financial need requirements, are in good academic standing, and are making satisfactory academic progress. (Note: Students pursuing a second associate or bachelor’s degree are not eligible to receive a Pell Grant.)
Annual awards range up to $6,195* for the 2019-0 award year (July 1, 2019 to June 30, 2020), depending on your:
- Expected family contribution
- The cost of attendance (determined by your school for your specific program)
- Your status as a full-time or part-time student.
- Your plans to attend school for a full academic year or less.
(Amounts can change yearly.)
*Source: Federal Student Aid―An Office of the U.S. Department of Education
These grants for college students are awarded to those with significant financial aid needs as determined by the financial aid office. To receive an FSEOG grant, (more commonly known as SEOG) students must be PELL recipients. Priority is given to students with the lowest eligibility index.
Annual award range: $100 to $4,000.
These grants for college students are awarded to PELL grant recipients who are full-time students, U.S. citizens or permanent residents in their first or second year in college. Students must also have successfully completed a rigorous secondary school program of study and graduated after January 1, 2006 (for first-year students) or after January 1, 2005 (for second-year students).
Annual award range: Up to $750 for the first year of undergraduate study and up to $1,300 for the second year of undergraduate studies.
These grants for college students are awarded to Pell Grant recipients, who attend school full-time, are U.S. citizens or permanent residents, have a GPA of 3.0 or higher and are pursuing a bachelor’s degree in engineering or technology and are in their third or fourth year of college.
Annual award range: Up to $4,000.
The Federal Work-Study Program provides jobs for students with financial need, allowing them to earn money to help pay education expenses. Students participating in the Federal Work-Study Program must maintain satisfactory progress and maintain a GPA of 2.0 or higher. To be considered for the work study program, applicants should be sure to check the “work study box” on the FAFSA application.
Annual award ranges: Determined after filing FAFSA.
STATE GRANTS
Awarded to students who are New York State residents, enrolled full-time, and in good academic standing and are based on New York State net taxable income. Students must complete the FAFSA and TAP application forms by logging on to www.fafsa.ed.gov. New York State (NYS) residents attending NYS schools can link directly to the TAP application from the FAFSA submission confirmation page.
Annual award range: up to $5,165
Since 2017, Vaughn College has proudly participated in the New York State Enhanced Tuition Awards program. The program was created to provide private colleges and universities with additional means to support their students whose goal is to graduate with an associate degree in two years, or a bachelor’s degree in four years. Eligibility for these awards is limited and recipients will be selected by New York State’s Higher Education Services Corporation. For detailed information, including how to fill out the application, click here.
Annual award range: $800 to $6,000
This program has the same eligibility criteria as TAP, but is for students who are enrolled for 6 to 11 credits. The APTS application is filed in the financial aid office.
Annual award range: up to $1,000
This program has the same financial eligibility criteria as TAP, but is for students who are enrolled for 6 to 11 credits. Other restrictions may apply. Please contact the financial aid office for more information. Students must also complete the FAFSA and TAP application forms by logging on to www.fafsa.ed.gov.
Vaughn participates in the New York State Education Department’s Higher Education Opportunity Program (HEOP). The HEOP at Vaughn is jointly supported by the College and the New York State Education Department. This program has been designed for educationally and economically disadvantaged New York State residents who otherwise might not be able to attend college. HEOP provides several academic and financial support services to assist students. These services include the summer immersion program, tutorial services, counseling services and financial assistance. To find out more, email or call 1.866.6VAUGHN, extension 160.
INSTITUTIONAL AID
These funds are used in awarding financial assistance to new and continuing students who are enrolled in our bachelor’s or associate degree programs on a full-time basis. Priority is given to PELL Grant recipients and students with the lowest eligibility index:
- Recipients are selected on the basis of their academic performance and financial need.
- Awards are designated for a specific academic year and are renewable each semester based on satisfactory academic performance and the availability of funds.
- Recipients must file the Free Application For Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Note: Certain circumstances may require that either a portion or all of the grant be repaid if the student withdraws before completing an enrollment period.
Have questions about financial aid?
How to reach us:
Phone: 1. 866.6VAUGHN, extension 100
When to see us:
Financial Aid Office Hours
Mondays through Thursdays: 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Fridays: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.