Pell Grants and Other Programs

Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

Pell Grants can be used without jeopardizing SSI eligibility. Grants are not considered as income or assets.

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)

Individuals who are getting SSDI may be eligible for a Pell Grant if there is financial need. Pell Grants do not affect SSDI benefits.

Plans to Achieve Self-Support (PASS)

Individuals may also want to consider using a PASS Plan that can allow income and resources to be used for a specific work goal. A PASS can be used for tuition or equipment needed to attend school.

Federal Supplemental Education Opportunity Grant (FSEOG)

Students who complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) are automatically evaluated for a Federal Supplemental Education Opportunity Grant (FSEOG). Typically only students at the lowest Estimated Family Contribution (EFC) levels get a FSEOG as the program is designed for undergraduate students with exceptional financial need.

Eligible full-time and part-time students can get awards ranging from $100 - $4,000 per year. The FSEOG is similar to the Pell Grant in that it does not have to be repaid.

The exact amount of the supplemental grant, if any, is determined by the student’s school. Under the FSEOG program, each school gets a set amount of money from the federal government, which it distributes to students according to its own criteria and policies.